There are a variety of ways to become a part of the tech industry. Many people have taken a step into the world of tech without giving it much thought. For example, you could take a job at an internet company and work your way up within that company.

These entry strategies aren’t for those who are easily pleased or for those who want to be in control all the time. In other words, if you like to take risks and are the type who likes to get their hands dirty, then consider trying one of these alternative Entry Strategies .

Take a New, Specific Career Path

There are a number of career paths that are highly sought after by tech workers. These include software engineer, computer programmer, web developer, web designer, etc.

These careers are highly specialized and often require a university degree. Some of the most highly lucrative careers in tech are those that have a minimal degree of skill requirement.

Taking a more specific career path is often referred to as “ Escaping the Valley ”. If you’re interested in an engineering career, then consider the mechanical engineer or civil engineer path.

If you’re more interested in software development, consider the software engineer or web developer path. If you want to work with startups or smaller businesses, then consider the business development or business operations engineer path.

Join a Club or Networking Event

Many tech companies provide networking events for their employees. These events are meant to help you build relationships with other employees and prospective employers.

You may wish to join a local engineering club if you’re interested in the field of mechanical engineering. Alternatively, you may wish to join a tech club if you’re interested in software development.

Either way, these events are a great way to meet other employees and potential employers in your same field. You may also wish to join a tech-focused business association if you’re interested in working in tech.

These events are often held at a location that’s convenient for employees who have to travel regularly. You may wish to look into joining a local business association or engineering group if you’re interested in working in tech.

Join a Company or Start a New One

You may wish to join a company or start a new one. This is a great way to begin your relationship with a company. These opportunities usually have a entry-level job fair where job opportunities are presented to employees.

You may wish to look into joining a tech company if you want to work in software development. This is a great way to make contacts and meet people who may be a good fit for you.

Acquire New Skills, Reach out to People

If you’re interested in a specific skill set or want to learn a new skill, there are a variety of avenues that you may wish to explore. This could be as simple as taking a class at a local community college.

Alternatively, you may wish to sign up for some certification courses that are offered through different associations or companies. These may be the perfect way to expand your knowledge and certification within one fell swoop.

Additionally, you may wish to look into joining a club or organization that offers specific skill-building events.

Many companies have skill-building events for employees that are designed to help you expand your perspective and help you grow as an individual. You may wish to look into taking some leadership development classes if you want to expand your leadership skills.

Conclusion

Becoming a part of the tech industry is not an easy task. There are a variety of ways to enter the industry and many who choose not to take the time to explore these alternative Entry Strategies reap the short end of the stick.

The key to either breaking into tech or staying in it is to make sure you have a plan. If you’re not sure where to begin, consider these alternative Entry Strategies for tech.