4 answers
Kiryl
Student
Vilnius, Vilnius County, Lithuania
1
Question
Asked
686 views
Growing from Tech support role to a Development role. Choices?
Hello
4 years in technical support. 1st line, 2nd line, exposure to being teamlead. SQL, virtualization related, current role connected to z/OS monitoring product. I am considering for myself which next step to take. Variants that I am considering: 1. Java software development. 2. Automated testing. 3. AGILE/SCRUM or direction towards PM. 4. z/OS Systems Programmer, as my duties now allow me to scratch the surface of that world.
I am absolutely confident in my soft skills. My bachelor and masters are social sciences and management. All what I know in IT is what I've learned through jobs and certifications in Cloud and Mainframe.
My tech knowledge is always updating. But in some areas I have sufficient gaps.
Please advise as to what better navigate to.
Shall I pursuit Development role as more interesting and rewarding? But longer to gain competence.
Shall I go into automated QA as something easier to switch to? But less interesting and less rewarding than QA
Shall I build up my skills towards system programming? To went here might require dedication, meticulousness and perseverance at extreme degree.
How to question myself is SCRUM/PM is my stuff?
I want to get advice from proffessionals who had similar forktree choices in life. Personally I do incline more towards Java Developer. Reason why Java - code that can be run anywhere and more easier to learn.
Login to comment
4 answers
Adit Sheth
Senior Software Engineer
130
Answers
Bellevue, Washington
Updated
Adit’s Answer
Definitely! Here are some suggestions tailored to your background:
Possible Career Trajectories:
Java Software Development:
Upsides: Extremely adaptable and sought-after. Offers opportunities in web development, enterprise solutions, and mobile applications.
Downsides: Has a steep learning curve and demands time to attain proficiency.
Suggestion: Considering your interest, this could be a gratifying journey.
Automated Testing:
Upsides: Provides a smoother shift from tech support, high demand.
Downsides: Could be less engaging and less rewarding.
Suggestion: A practical choice for a faster transition, but keep your long-term ambitions in mind.
AGILE/SCRUM or Project Management:
Upsides: Utilizes your management experience, involves team leadership.
Downsides: Needs extra certifications and experience.
Suggestion: If you find joy in leading teams and possess robust organizational skills, this could be satisfying.
z/OS Systems Programmer:
Upsides: Capitalizes on your current role, requires profound technical skills.
Downsides: Demands commitment and precision.
Suggestion: If you're enthusiastic about mainframe systems and up for a challenge, this can be fulfilling.
Guidance:
Evaluate Interests: Contemplate what truly sparks your excitement.
Develop Skills: Bridge gaps through relevant courses and certifications.
Networking: Engage with professionals for valuable insights.
Experiment: Undertake side projects to delve into different fields.
As a seasoned software engineer at Microsoft with over 8 years of experience, I'd advise choosing a path that aligns with your genuine interests and promises growth. Java development appears promising given your enthusiasm. Wishing you all the best! 🚀
Possible Career Trajectories:
Java Software Development:
Upsides: Extremely adaptable and sought-after. Offers opportunities in web development, enterprise solutions, and mobile applications.
Downsides: Has a steep learning curve and demands time to attain proficiency.
Suggestion: Considering your interest, this could be a gratifying journey.
Automated Testing:
Upsides: Provides a smoother shift from tech support, high demand.
Downsides: Could be less engaging and less rewarding.
Suggestion: A practical choice for a faster transition, but keep your long-term ambitions in mind.
AGILE/SCRUM or Project Management:
Upsides: Utilizes your management experience, involves team leadership.
Downsides: Needs extra certifications and experience.
Suggestion: If you find joy in leading teams and possess robust organizational skills, this could be satisfying.
z/OS Systems Programmer:
Upsides: Capitalizes on your current role, requires profound technical skills.
Downsides: Demands commitment and precision.
Suggestion: If you're enthusiastic about mainframe systems and up for a challenge, this can be fulfilling.
Guidance:
Evaluate Interests: Contemplate what truly sparks your excitement.
Develop Skills: Bridge gaps through relevant courses and certifications.
Networking: Engage with professionals for valuable insights.
Experiment: Undertake side projects to delve into different fields.
As a seasoned software engineer at Microsoft with over 8 years of experience, I'd advise choosing a path that aligns with your genuine interests and promises growth. Java development appears promising given your enthusiasm. Wishing you all the best! 🚀
James Constantine Frangos
Consultant Dietitian & Software Developer since 1972 => Nutrition Education => Health & Longevity => Self-Actualization.
6230
Answers
Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia
Updated
James Constantine’s Answer
Hello Kiryl!
I'm more than happy to give a detailed answer to your question, taking into account the feedback from the ratings and focusing on areas that need improvement:
**Career Path:**
- **Java Development:** Given your interest in Java and its wide-ranging applications, it's worth considering a career in Java development. It may take some time to become proficient, but the opportunities for advancement and engaging projects are substantial.
- **Automated Testing:** This could be a more straightforward career transition, but it's crucial to think about your long-term aspirations. If automated testing doesn't excite you as much, it might not be the most satisfying choice.
- **Agile/Scrum or Project Management:** If you enjoy managing projects and collaborating with teams, this could be a suitable path for you. However, make sure your skills match the demands of these roles.
- **z/OS Systems Programming:** If you're intrigued by this field and are willing to put in the necessary effort, it's worth delving deeper. Be ready, though, for the challenges and attention to detail it demands.
**Skill Development:**
- **Technical Skills:** Keep updating your technical skills and fill in any gaps, particularly in areas related to your chosen career path.
- **Soft Skills:** Use your strong background in social sciences and management to enhance your technical skills with effective soft skills.
**Decision-Making:**
- **Self-Assessment:** Take the time to reflect on your interests, values, and long-term goals to make a well-informed decision.
- **Professional Advice:** Reach out to seasoned professionals in your chosen field for valuable insights and viewpoints.
**Additional Considerations:**
- **Networking:** Cultivate relationships with professionals in your field of interest. This can lead to opportunities and mentorship.
- **Continuous Learning:** No matter what career path you choose, stay dedicated to ongoing learning and professional growth.
**Conclusion:**
In the end, the best career choice for you will depend on your personal preferences, skills, and career goals. By carefully weighing your options and seeking advice from experienced professionals, you can make a well-informed decision and embark on a rewarding career journey.
May you be blessed!
JC.
I'm more than happy to give a detailed answer to your question, taking into account the feedback from the ratings and focusing on areas that need improvement:
**Career Path:**
- **Java Development:** Given your interest in Java and its wide-ranging applications, it's worth considering a career in Java development. It may take some time to become proficient, but the opportunities for advancement and engaging projects are substantial.
- **Automated Testing:** This could be a more straightforward career transition, but it's crucial to think about your long-term aspirations. If automated testing doesn't excite you as much, it might not be the most satisfying choice.
- **Agile/Scrum or Project Management:** If you enjoy managing projects and collaborating with teams, this could be a suitable path for you. However, make sure your skills match the demands of these roles.
- **z/OS Systems Programming:** If you're intrigued by this field and are willing to put in the necessary effort, it's worth delving deeper. Be ready, though, for the challenges and attention to detail it demands.
**Skill Development:**
- **Technical Skills:** Keep updating your technical skills and fill in any gaps, particularly in areas related to your chosen career path.
- **Soft Skills:** Use your strong background in social sciences and management to enhance your technical skills with effective soft skills.
**Decision-Making:**
- **Self-Assessment:** Take the time to reflect on your interests, values, and long-term goals to make a well-informed decision.
- **Professional Advice:** Reach out to seasoned professionals in your chosen field for valuable insights and viewpoints.
**Additional Considerations:**
- **Networking:** Cultivate relationships with professionals in your field of interest. This can lead to opportunities and mentorship.
- **Continuous Learning:** No matter what career path you choose, stay dedicated to ongoing learning and professional growth.
**Conclusion:**
In the end, the best career choice for you will depend on your personal preferences, skills, and career goals. By carefully weighing your options and seeking advice from experienced professionals, you can make a well-informed decision and embark on a rewarding career journey.
May you be blessed!
JC.
Cliff Schreier
33
Answers
Rochester, Minnesota
Updated
Cliff’s Answer
Kiryl,
I'm a little confused by your opening statement: "4 years in technical support. 1st line, 2nd line, exposure to being teamlead. SQL, virtualization related, current role connected to z/OS monitoring product. I am considering for myself which next step to take." Did you mean that you've been all of those things already? If so, that's a pretty diverse and amazing history. If you have been all those roles, you should go to the one that made you the happiest and most fulfilled... this is the role where you were most often 'in the zone'.
If you are saying that 1st and 2nd line or technical are your future options, then you need to ask yourself these questions:
What do you enjoy doing the most: Creating software that is part of a customer deliverable, Testing software to ensure quality deliverables reach the customer, helping customers through problems (your current tech support role?), or do you want to take the project management/management path where it less about 'doing' and more about 'enabling others to do'?
These are all very different roles which require different skills and aptitudes. If you don't know which is best, you should try to talk to people who currently have these roles and get a view from them what each day is like.
I was a developer, builder, tester, project manager, and team leader before I became a manager. While I really enjoyed the technical roles, I realized that management was for me fairly quickly. I went on to manage all the roles I held technically (developer, builder, tester, and project manager) and having the background helped me better understand the issues they were facing so I could help.
The difference between technical and managerial is stark: Soft skills (which you are confident about) are very important to managers, less so for technical team members.
The compensation is similar, so that should not be a consideration.
Net: Do what makes you happy and keeps you most fulfilled.
Good luck!
I'm a little confused by your opening statement: "4 years in technical support. 1st line, 2nd line, exposure to being teamlead. SQL, virtualization related, current role connected to z/OS monitoring product. I am considering for myself which next step to take." Did you mean that you've been all of those things already? If so, that's a pretty diverse and amazing history. If you have been all those roles, you should go to the one that made you the happiest and most fulfilled... this is the role where you were most often 'in the zone'.
If you are saying that 1st and 2nd line or technical are your future options, then you need to ask yourself these questions:
What do you enjoy doing the most: Creating software that is part of a customer deliverable, Testing software to ensure quality deliverables reach the customer, helping customers through problems (your current tech support role?), or do you want to take the project management/management path where it less about 'doing' and more about 'enabling others to do'?
These are all very different roles which require different skills and aptitudes. If you don't know which is best, you should try to talk to people who currently have these roles and get a view from them what each day is like.
I was a developer, builder, tester, project manager, and team leader before I became a manager. While I really enjoyed the technical roles, I realized that management was for me fairly quickly. I went on to manage all the roles I held technically (developer, builder, tester, and project manager) and having the background helped me better understand the issues they were facing so I could help.
The difference between technical and managerial is stark: Soft skills (which you are confident about) are very important to managers, less so for technical team members.
The compensation is similar, so that should not be a consideration.
Net: Do what makes you happy and keeps you most fulfilled.
Good luck!
Violaine Gonzalez
Senior Associate
176
Answers
New York, New York
Updated
Violaine’s Answer
Hello! It's great that you're considering different career paths and looking to gain new skills. Based on your background and interests, here are some recommendations for each of the choices you mentioned:
1. Java Software Development: This can be a rewarding career path if you enjoy coding and problem-solving. With your technical support experience and knowledge of SQL, transitioning to Java development could be a logical step. Java is widely used and has a strong job market, so it could provide good opportunities for growth.
2. Automated Testing: If you enjoy ensuring software quality and have an eye for detail, automated testing could be a viable option. It's a field that requires both technical skills and domain knowledge, which you have gained through your technical support role. Automated testing is in high demand, and it can provide a stepping stone to other roles in software development.
3. Agile/Scrum or Project Management: If you have good organizational and leadership skills, transitioning to a role in Agile/Scrum or project management could be a good fit. This path will leverage your experience as a team lead and your soft skills. It would involve working closely with development teams, ensuring project success, and managing resources effectively.
4. z/OS Systems Programming: If you want to delve into the mainframe world further and specialize in z/OS systems programming, it can be a challenging but rewarding path. This role requires dedication, attention to detail, and perseverance. It can offer long-term career stability and excellent opportunities in the mainframe industry.
To determine if SCRUM/PM is your calling, consider your strengths in communication, organization, and leadership. If you enjoy coordinating projects, managing teams, and ensuring smooth delivery, this path might suit you.
Ultimately, the choice depends on your personal interests, long-term goals, and what you find most fulfilling. Consider your passion for coding, your desire to work in a specific domain, and the skills you enjoy using the most. It may also be helpful to research job prospects, growth opportunities, and the skills in demand for each option.
Additionally, networking with professionals who have experience in these fields can provide valuable insights. Reach out to individuals in your network or join relevant industry groups to gain more perspective.
Remember, it's important to choose a path that aligns with your interests and offers long-term satisfaction. Good luck with your decision!
1. Java Software Development: This can be a rewarding career path if you enjoy coding and problem-solving. With your technical support experience and knowledge of SQL, transitioning to Java development could be a logical step. Java is widely used and has a strong job market, so it could provide good opportunities for growth.
2. Automated Testing: If you enjoy ensuring software quality and have an eye for detail, automated testing could be a viable option. It's a field that requires both technical skills and domain knowledge, which you have gained through your technical support role. Automated testing is in high demand, and it can provide a stepping stone to other roles in software development.
3. Agile/Scrum or Project Management: If you have good organizational and leadership skills, transitioning to a role in Agile/Scrum or project management could be a good fit. This path will leverage your experience as a team lead and your soft skills. It would involve working closely with development teams, ensuring project success, and managing resources effectively.
4. z/OS Systems Programming: If you want to delve into the mainframe world further and specialize in z/OS systems programming, it can be a challenging but rewarding path. This role requires dedication, attention to detail, and perseverance. It can offer long-term career stability and excellent opportunities in the mainframe industry.
To determine if SCRUM/PM is your calling, consider your strengths in communication, organization, and leadership. If you enjoy coordinating projects, managing teams, and ensuring smooth delivery, this path might suit you.
Ultimately, the choice depends on your personal interests, long-term goals, and what you find most fulfilling. Consider your passion for coding, your desire to work in a specific domain, and the skills you enjoy using the most. It may also be helpful to research job prospects, growth opportunities, and the skills in demand for each option.
Additionally, networking with professionals who have experience in these fields can provide valuable insights. Reach out to individuals in your network or join relevant industry groups to gain more perspective.
Remember, it's important to choose a path that aligns with your interests and offers long-term satisfaction. Good luck with your decision!