Thinking Of A Career In Tech? Here’s Where To Start

The tech industry continues to produce some of the highest-paying jobs across the globe. From software development to cloud computing and data science, opportunities are wide-ranging and accessible to anyone willing to learn the right skills. The biggest challenge most beginners face is figuring out where to start.

This guide will help you map a clear path, including which careers pay well, the required skills, and how to take practical steps with training and certifications.

Why Tech Careers Are Worth Considering?

High Salaries: Entry-level roles in software development average $70,000–$90,000 annually in the U.S. Mid-level positions quickly reach six figures.

Remote Flexibility: Many companies, such as Google, Microsoft, and Amazon, offer hybrid or fully remote roles.

Growth Potential: Cloud computing, cybersecurity, and AI-related roles are among the fastest-growing, projected to expand through 2030.

Choose A Career Path

The first decision is which area of tech you want to explore. Here are some of the most in-demand options.

Software Development

Salary Range: $80,000–$120,000+

Skills Needed: Python, JavaScript, SQL, Git, and problem-solving.

Where to Start: Platforms like Codecademy, freeCodeCamp, and Coursera offer beginner-friendly courses. Bootcamps such as General Assembly or Flatiron School provide intensive, job-focused training.

Data Science & Analytics

Salary Range: $85,000–$135,000

Skills Needed: Python, R, SQL, statistics, data visualisation (Tableau, Power BI).

Where to Start: Google’s Data Analytics Certificate (Coursera) or IBM’s Data Science Professional Certificate are affordable entry points.

Cybersecurity

Salary Range: $90,000–$140,000

Skills Needed: Networking, Linux, firewalls, threat detection, penetration testing.

Where to Start: CompTIA Security+ or Cisco’s CCNA certification prepares you for entry-level security analyst jobs.

Cloud Computing

Salary Range: $100,000–$150,000

Skills Needed: AWS, Microsoft Azure, Google Cloud, Linux, Kubernetes.

Where to Start: The AWS Certified Solutions Architect – Associate exam is one of the most popular certifications for beginners.

UX/UI Design

Salary Range: $70,000–$110,000

Skills Needed: Figma, Adobe XD, user research, prototyping.

Where to Start: Google’s UX Design Certificate on Coursera provides a solid foundation and portfolio-building projects.

Build Marketable Skills

Most tech careers don't require a computer science degree. What employers care about are skills and proof that you can apply them.

Coding Skills: Utilise platforms like LeetCode, HackerRank, or Codewars for daily coding practice.

Portfolio Projects: Create apps, dashboards, or websites and showcase them on GitHub.

Certifications: Employers value recognised certifications—AWS, CompTIA, Microsoft, and Google are strong brands in the hiring market.

Get Hands-On Experience

Even without a degree or previous job, you can build experience that counts.

Freelancing Platforms: Upwork and Fiverr let you apply your new skills while earning.

Open-Source Projects: Contribute on GitHub to gain practical teamwork experience.

Internships/Apprenticeships: Programs like Multiverse, Year Up, and Google’s apprenticeship programs help newcomers break in.

Optimise Your Job Search

Once you’ve gained basic skills and built a small portfolio, the job search begins.

LinkedIn: Optimise your profile with keywords like "entry-level software developer" or "junior data analyst." Recruiters search for these exact terms.

Job Boards: Check Indeed, Glassdoor, Dice, and Wellfound (formerly AngelList Talent).

Tech-Specific Platforms: GitHub Jobs and Stack Overflow Jobs highlight developer roles.

Compare Training Options

Self-Paced Online Courses

Platforms: Coursera, Udemy, edX

Time: 3 to 12 months (flexible and self-directed)

Cost: $50–$500

Best for: Budget-conscious learners who prefer to study at their own pace, especially while working or managing other responsibilities

Bootcamps

Providers: Flatiron School, Springboard, General Assembly

Time: 3 to 9 months

Cost: $5,000–$15,000

Best for: People who want fast, structured training with job support, interview prep, and direct pathways to employment in tech roles

University Degrees

Fields: Computer Science, Data Science, Information Technology

Time: 2 to 4 years

Cost: $20,000–$60,000+

Best for: Those seeking traditional credentials, in-depth theory, access to career services, and a broader academic foundation for long-term growth

High-ROI Certifications To Consider

If your goal is to get hired faster, focus on certifications that employers actively request.

•                  AWS Certified Solutions Architect (Amazon Web Services)
•                  CompTIA Security+ (Cybersecurity)
•                  Google Data Analytics Certificate (Data Analytics)
•                  Certified ScrumMaster (Project Management/Agile)
•                  Microsoft Certified: Azure Fundamentals (Cloud)

These certifications cost between $150–$400 per exam, but can increase your earning potential by tens of thousands per year.

Salary Growth With Experience

To see what growth looks like, here’s how salaries typically scale:

•                  Year 1–2 (Entry-Level): $65,000–$90,000
•                  Year 3–5 (Mid-Level): $90,000–$120,000
•                  Year 6+ (Senior): $120,000–$160,000+

Tech managers and specialists (like cloud architects or security consultants) can earn $180,000–$220,000 annually at top firms.

Keep Learning

Technology changes quickly. Even after landing your first role, continuous learning is part of the job.

•                  Follow learning paths on platforms like Pluralsight or LinkedIn Learning.
•                  Subscribe to newsletters like TechCrunch or The Verge to track industry shifts.
•                  Take advanced certifications—such as AWS Solutions Architect Professional or Certified Ethical Hacker—for career progression.

Quick Starter Checklist

1.               Pick a tech career path (software, data, cybersecurity, etc.).
2.               Enrol in one beginner-friendly course or certification to gain foundational skills.
3.               Practice daily with coding challenges, hands-on labs, or real-world tools like GitHub.
4.               Build 2–3 small projects to showcase in a portfolio and demonstrate your capabilities to potential employers.
5.               Apply to freelance gigs, internships, apprenticeships, or volunteer tech roles to build experience and credibility.
6.               Start networking on LinkedIn, join relevant Slack or Discord communities, and attend local or virtual tech meetups or hackathons.

Conclusion: Where To Begin Today

The tech industry rewards action. The best way to start is to pick a single path and commit. If you’re not sure, begin with a general coding course or the Google IT Support Certificate—it’s designed for beginners and provides a clear route into IT helpdesk roles ($55,000–$65,000 starting salary).

Once you gain momentum, consider moving into more specialised fields like cloud, cybersecurity, or data science, where salaries are higher. Each step builds on the last, and within a year, you can move from beginner to employable. Pick one course today, start building projects, and you’ll be on your way to a career in tech with strong earning potential.