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How do I go about exploring different tech fields?
I want to be in tech, I'm just not sure what careers are available for that.
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Justin Shapiro
Accounting | Finance | Financial Systems | Non-Profit Volunteer
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Justin’s Answer
Hi Kaitlyn,
Tech roles fall broadly into categories like development, data, design, security, and management. Here’s a breakdown of key fields within tech:
Software Development: This includes roles like Software Engineer, Web Developer, App Developer, and Game Developer. If you enjoy coding, problem-solving, and building applications, this field might interest you.
Data Science and Analytics: Data Scientists and Data Analysts work with data to extract insights and drive decisions. This field is great if you enjoy statistics, working with data, and applying analytical skills.
Cybersecurity: Roles here include Cybersecurity Analyst, Ethical Hacker, and Information Security Manager. Cybersecurity is critical for protecting systems and data, so this field might appeal if you like problem-solving and safeguarding technology.
IT Support and Systems Administration: Network Administrators and System Administrators manage and maintain the infrastructure of a company’s technology. This field often suits people who enjoy working with hardware and troubleshooting.
Product Management: Product Managers oversee the development process from concept to launch, balancing technical needs with business strategy. It’s a good fit if you enjoy project management, planning, and coordinating teams.
UX/UI Design: User Experience (UX) and User Interface (UI) Designers create and optimize the look, feel, and function of products. This is ideal if you’re creative, enjoy design, and care about how users interact with technology.
2. Take Online Courses and Tutorials
Platforms like Coursera, Udacity, and Codecademy offer free or low-cost courses in fields like web development, data science, cybersecurity, and more. You could take an introductory course in each area to see what interests you most.
3. Get Hands-On with Projects
Building projects is a great way to learn and explore. For example, create a simple website to explore web development, analyze datasets to learn about data science, or explore basic cybersecurity tools if that’s of interest.
4. Explore Internships or Volunteering
Look for high school internships, virtual internships, or volunteer opportunities that offer tech exposure. Even a basic role in a tech-related organization can help you observe different roles and see what’s most engaging.
5. Network with People in Tech
Talking to professionals or attending online tech events can give you insights into what they do day-to-day. Platforms like LinkedIn can help you connect with people in the tech field who are willing to share advice and experiences.
As you explore, you'll begin to see which areas align with your interests and strengths, which will help guide your college major or further career choices.
Tech roles fall broadly into categories like development, data, design, security, and management. Here’s a breakdown of key fields within tech:
Software Development: This includes roles like Software Engineer, Web Developer, App Developer, and Game Developer. If you enjoy coding, problem-solving, and building applications, this field might interest you.
Data Science and Analytics: Data Scientists and Data Analysts work with data to extract insights and drive decisions. This field is great if you enjoy statistics, working with data, and applying analytical skills.
Cybersecurity: Roles here include Cybersecurity Analyst, Ethical Hacker, and Information Security Manager. Cybersecurity is critical for protecting systems and data, so this field might appeal if you like problem-solving and safeguarding technology.
IT Support and Systems Administration: Network Administrators and System Administrators manage and maintain the infrastructure of a company’s technology. This field often suits people who enjoy working with hardware and troubleshooting.
Product Management: Product Managers oversee the development process from concept to launch, balancing technical needs with business strategy. It’s a good fit if you enjoy project management, planning, and coordinating teams.
UX/UI Design: User Experience (UX) and User Interface (UI) Designers create and optimize the look, feel, and function of products. This is ideal if you’re creative, enjoy design, and care about how users interact with technology.
2. Take Online Courses and Tutorials
Platforms like Coursera, Udacity, and Codecademy offer free or low-cost courses in fields like web development, data science, cybersecurity, and more. You could take an introductory course in each area to see what interests you most.
3. Get Hands-On with Projects
Building projects is a great way to learn and explore. For example, create a simple website to explore web development, analyze datasets to learn about data science, or explore basic cybersecurity tools if that’s of interest.
4. Explore Internships or Volunteering
Look for high school internships, virtual internships, or volunteer opportunities that offer tech exposure. Even a basic role in a tech-related organization can help you observe different roles and see what’s most engaging.
5. Network with People in Tech
Talking to professionals or attending online tech events can give you insights into what they do day-to-day. Platforms like LinkedIn can help you connect with people in the tech field who are willing to share advice and experiences.
As you explore, you'll begin to see which areas align with your interests and strengths, which will help guide your college major or further career choices.