Welcome to Break the blueprint – a blog series exploring the unique business challenges and opportunities of underrepresented business owners and entrepreneurs. Learn how they grew or scaled their businesses, explored entrepreneurial ventures within their companies, or created side hustles, and how their stories can inspire and influence your own success.
Changing careers can be challenging for anyone, but the challenges can be particularly overwhelming for people of color.
While the technology industry is full of opportunities, it also presents unique hurdles that must be overcome with determination and strategic planning.
The path is riddled with obstacles, from battling imposter syndrome to upskilling through certifications and boot camps to learning industry lingo without a technical background. 
However, with the right mindset and resources, these challenges can become stepping stones to a fulfilling career in the technology industry.
In this article, I’ll explore the common challenges people of color might face when breaking into technology and provide advice for overcoming those challenges based on my personal experience doing so.
1. Fighting Imposter Syndrome
Imposter syndrome is a pervasive problem that affects many professionals, and it can be particularly common among tech career changers of color. This feeling of self-doubt and insecurity about one’s abilities can be paralyzing and often causes individuals to question their place in the industry.
I still vividly remember the day I completed my Certified ScrumMaster (CSM) program. Although the certification gave me a solid understanding of the product lifecycle and decision-making processes, I still felt an undercurrent of doubt about my abilities.
It wasn’t until I started applying my skills in real-world scenarios that my confidence began to grow. The key was recognizing my accomplishments and reminding myself that I belonged in the tech industry.
My pro tip: Combat imposter syndrome by celebrating small successes and seeking support from those who have successfully navigated similar paths. Surround yourself with a supportive community that reinforces your worth and potential.
2. Continuing education through certifications and boot camps
The technology industry is dynamic and constantly evolving, so continuous learning is essential. For career changers, upskilling through certifications and boot camps can provide the knowledge and skills necessary for a successful transition.
Participation in the Scrum Alliance The certification program was a game-changer for me. Not only did it give me a comprehensive understanding of key concepts, but it also instilled a sense of confidence in my ability to contribute meaningfully to projects.
This experience highlighted the importance of targeted learning and its influence on professional development.
My pro tip: Do your research and enroll in reputable certification programs and bootcamps that match your career goals. These programs are designed to provide practical skills and knowledge that are highly valued in the technology industry. Additionally, they often provide networking opportunities with industry experts.
3. Learn the language of the industry
For career changers without a technical background, learning the industry language is one of the biggest challenges. Understanding jargon, industry-specific terms, and the overall landscape can be intimidating, but is crucial for effective communication and career advancement.
When I first decided to get into technology, I realized the importance of intention. I identified specific roles in the companies that interested me and focused on mastering the languages ​​and skills relevant to those positions.
This targeted approach helped me gain a deeper understanding of the industry and make me more confident in interviews.
My pro tip: Immerse yourself in industry-related content like blogs, podcasts, webinars, and online courses. Engaging with this material will help you become familiar with the terminology and concepts and feel more confident and competent in a professional environment.
4. Choose a growth-oriented career path
It’s tempting to choose the easiest path when transitioning into a new career. However, for sustained success, it is crucial to choose a path that offers long-term growth and aligns with your interests and strengths.
In my career transition, identifying a specific discipline within the technology industry and focusing on becoming proficient in that area proved invaluable. This conscious focus increased my chances of pursuing opportunities and ensured that I was on a path that allowed for continued learning and growth.
My pro tip: Take the time to research different roles in the technology industry and assess their growth potential. Seek informational interviews with professionals in these roles to gain insight into their experiences and career paths. Make informed decisions based on your interests, strengths and long-term goals.
People of color can successfully transition to technology.
Making a career change in the tech industry as a person of color presents unique challenges.
However, if you address imposter syndrome, invest in training programs, learn the language of the industry, and choose a growth-oriented career path, you can overcome these hurdles and thrive in tech.
My main recommendation is to remember that intentionality always takes precedence over non-focus. Be intentional, seek out supportive communities, and continually invest in your personal and professional development.
If you’re ready to take the next step in your tech career, consider reaching out to someone who already has the role you want, or even a career coach. Your career breakthrough lies right on the other side of your new self; embrace the change; This is the only way to grow.
