Non-linear paths to tech are the new black!
summary
Argues that a CS degree is unnecessary, cites Harvard Business Review that diverse teams are smarter, and points to concrete routes into web work: front-end, bootcamps, no/low code, meetups and GitHub. Recommends create a GitHub account and contribute non-code (docs, triage) to show work, use open source and CI/CD to learn, and seek mentors. Notes life expectancy (~77 years) so a single early career decision can last ~50 years and urges asking employers about diversity and onboarding practices.
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chapters (11)
- 0:00Introduction and speaker background
- 3:12Why linear career paths fail
- 8:55Career changes are not failures
- 11:03Overcoming fears of career change
- 17:31Superpowers of diverse backgrounds
- 19:16Entering tech from other fields
- 23:07Building a tech community network
- 26:36Applying for tech jobs with no CS degree
- 28:25Succeeding in your first tech role
- 31:17Developer experience for career changers
- 36:21Q&A: Multiple career backgrounds
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