We have witnessed exponential technological growth during our lifetimes, and new technologies have brought with them an explosion of new career paths in tech that we could have never imagined just a decade ago. 

There are so many points of entry into the tech industry that even you can leverage your extensive experience and expertise to thrive in the tech world. Keep reading to learn how!

The Tech Industry Needs You

Despite recent notable layoffs within the tech industry, the number of available jobs and demand for skilled IT professionals far exceeds the supply. 

In fact, according to ManpowerGroup's 2024 Global Talent Shortage report, 76% of IT companies say they are struggling to fill positions with qualified talent. As long as you bring the right skills to the table, it shouldn't be too hard to find an open position.

And if you're worried about your future job security, a tech career is a safe bet. The ManpowerGroup's 2024 Global Employment Outlook Survey reports that the information technology sector will lead all other sectors in the number of new hires over the next eight years, beating out finance, real estate, and healthcare.

The Benefits of Entering Tech at 40+

Experience and Maturity: Valuable Assets

Your personal and professional experience already gives you a leg up when trying to start a career in tech. 

Unlike younger candidates, you bring a wealth of knowledge and skills that can enhance problem-solving, project management, creativity, and communication. Skills such as these are vital to employers in the tech industry, where complex problem-solving and collaboration on projects are essential.

Transferable Skills: Leveraging What You Know

Think about the skills you've developed over the years. Whether it's business writing, strategic planning, graphic design, or customer service, these skills can all be transferable to various tech roles. 

Most tech products are developed and reiterated as a team project, so things like diplomacy, conflict resolution, and leadership are essential. 

Diversity in the Workplace: Your Contribution

Diverse teams drive innovation. Mature employees bring a different perspective and wisdom, contributing to more comprehensive problem-solving and creativity. Your unique viewpoint, history, and values allow you to see the "bigger picture" that might get lost in projects with a more narrow focus. 

Your colleagues might be younger than you, but more seasoned workers enrich the workplace culture, fostering an inclusive and dynamic environment.

Identifying the Right Tech Role for You

The tech field encompasses a plethora of roles, from software development and data analysis to UX/UI design, project management, and cybersecurity. 

Here's how you can find the best fit for you:

Assessing Your Interests and Strengths

Start by evaluating your interests and strengths. Are there any skills you developed in a previous career that you especially enjoyed or excelled at? Would you thrive with work that is more meticulous or logical, such as coding and software development? Are you more interested in the ideation aspect or creative approaches to tech operations, or do you prefer analyzing data to gain insights? 

Consider what excites you and aligns with your strengths. To explore further, be sure to take the career quiz on Appily Advance to help you define and narrow your focus.

Exploring Various Tech Roles

  • Software Development: Ideal if you enjoy problem-solving and creating solutions.
  • Data Analysis: Perfect for those who love working with numbers and patterns.
  • UX/UI Design: Best for creative individuals with an eye for design and user experience.
  • Project Management: Great for those with strong organizational and leadership skills.
  • Cybersecurity: A good fit if you're detail-oriented and passionate about protecting information.

Remote Work and Flexibility

One of the advantages of a tech career is that many companies allow employees to work remotely or on a hybrid schedule. This flexibility can be particularly helpful if you juggle other obligations like raising children, caretaking for a parent, or taking online courses. Tech roles often offer the option to work from anywhere, providing a better work-life balance and cost-saving opportunities. 

Gaining the Necessary Skills and Education

Transitioning into tech involves almost always developing new skills or furthering your education through courses, training, and certifications. 

Educational Paths

  • Coding Bootcamps: Intensive, short-term programs that focus on practical and technical skills.  
  • Online Courses: Platforms like Coursera, Udacity, edX, and Google Career Certificates offer courses on a wide range of tech subjects.
  • Community College Programs: Affordable and flexible options can help you gain foundational knowledge.
  • University Degrees: If your new role requires a traditional degree, majors like computer science, cybersecurity, or web development would be beneficial.

Many post-secondary institutions offer programs for adult students like yourself that may offer evening classes, discounted rates, and fast tracks to certifications. 

Continuous Learning

The tech industry evolves rapidly, so continuous learning is necessary. Stay updated with the latest trends and technologies through the news, webinars, online courses, and tech conferences. 

Learn from the incredible projects other tech companies are doing and implement key takeaways to improve your own work. This commitment to learning will keep you competitive and innovative.

Building a Strong Network and Gaining Experience

Networking and hands-on experience are critical in tech. Here are some strategies to help you build your network and gain relevant experience:

Networking Strategies

  • Attend Meetups and Conferences: Engage with the tech community through local meetups and industry conferences where people you meet can serve as vital connections to opportunities.
  • Join Online Forums: Participate in tech-related forums and communities. 
  • Leverage LinkedIn: Connect with tech industry thought leaders and engage with their content to learn more about the field's current issues and trends. 
  • Connect and Engage: Reach out to friends, family, acquaintances, and former colleagues who might know of exclusive job openings.

Finding a Mentor

A mentor can provide guidance and support as you navigate your new career path. Look for reputable mentors within your network or within a familiar tech company. At the very least, follow top tech gurus on social media, read their books, and listen to their podcasts to understand their visions. 

Gaining Practical Experience

Gain experience through internships, volunteer work, or freelance projects. If allowed, you could even job shadow a friend or family member for a day. Practical experience will not only build your skills and knowledge but also enhance your resume and portfolio. 

Overcoming Age-Related Challenges in Tech

Transitioning to a new career at any age comes with challenges. Here's how to address and overcome them:

Addressing Ageism

Ageism can be a concern, but it's important to focus on your strengths and what you bring to the table. Highlight your extensive experience, maturity, and unique perspective in your job applications and interviews, and explain how you can bring value to the company.

Building a Strong Personal Brand

Create a strong personal brand by consistently and strategically showcasing your skills and achievements. Update your resume and LinkedIn profile to reflect your new career path and accomplishments. Consider creating a professional website or online portfolio to highlight your work.

Staying Motivated and Confident

Transitioning careers doesn't happen overnight, and often, you'll find your middle-aged self back at the bottom of the totem pole again, paying your dues and working your way back up. Surround yourself with supportive individuals, stay humble, and remain confident in your abilities and the value you bring to the tech industry. 

Key Takeaways

Transitioning into a tech career over 40 is not only possible but can be incredibly rewarding. Your experience, maturity, and transferable skills are valuable assets in this dynamic field. 

Ready to start your journey in tech? Take our career exploration quiz to find the perfect tech role for you and explore the educational paths that can help you get there. Take the Quiz