Welcome to Draft violation — a blog series that dives into the unique business challenges and opportunities of underrepresented business owners and entrepreneurs. Learn how they developed or expanded their businesses, explored entrepreneurial ventures within their companies, or created side hustles, and how their stories can inspire and inform your success.
Changing careers can be daunting for anyone, but the challenges can be especially overwhelming for people of color.
The technology industry, while full of opportunities, presents unique obstacles that must be managed with determination and strategic planning.
The road is riddled with obstacles, from battling impostor syndrome to upskilling through certifications and bootcamps and learning the language of the industry without a technical background. 
However, with the right mindset and resources, these challenges can be turned into stepping stones to a fulfilling career in technology.
In this article, I will explore common challenges that people of color may face when breaking into technology and offer my advice for overcoming them based on personal experience.
1. Struggle with impostor syndrome
Impostor syndrome is a pervasive problem that affects many professionals, and it can be especially prevalent among tech career changers. This feeling of self-doubt and uncertainty about one’s abilities can be crippling, often leading individuals to question their place in the industry.
I vividly remember the day I completed my Certified ScrumMaster (CSM) program. Although the certification equipped me with a solid understanding of the product life cycle and decision-making process, I still felt a lurking doubt in my abilities.
It wasn’t until I started applying my skills in real-world scenarios that my confidence began to build. The key was to acknowledge my achievements and remind myself that I belong in the technology space.
My pro tip: Combat impostor syndrome by celebrating small victories and seeking mentorship from those who have successfully embarked on similar paths. Surround yourself with a supportive community that reinforces your value and potential.
2. Improvement through certification and training camps
The technology industry is dynamic and constantly evolving, which makes continuous learning essential. For career changers, gaining skills through certifications and bootcamps can provide the necessary knowledge and credentials for a successful transition.
Participating in Scrum Alliance the certification program was a game changer for me. It not only provided me with a comprehensive understanding of key concepts, but also instilled a sense of confidence in my ability to contribute meaningfully to projects.
This experience emphasized the importance of targeted learning and its impact on one’s professional development.
My pro tip: Research and enroll in reputable certification programs and bootcamps that align with your career goals. These programs are designed to provide practical skills and knowledge that are highly valued in the technology industry. In addition, they often offer networking opportunities with industry professionals.
3. Learning the language of industry
Learning the language of the industry is one of the most significant challenges for career changers without a technical background. Understanding technical jargon, industry-specific terms, and the overall landscape can be daunting, but it’s critical to effective communication and career advancement.
When I first decided to turn to technology, I realized the importance of being intentional. I identified specific roles in companies I was interested in and focused on mastering the languages and skills relevant to those positions.
This targeted approach helped me understand the industry better and made me more confident during interviews.
My pro tip: Immerse yourself in industry-related content such as blogs, podcasts, webinars and online courses. Dealing with this material will help you familiarize yourself with terminology and concepts, making you more comfortable and experienced in a professional environment.
4. Choosing a growth-oriented career
It’s tempting to take the easy route when transitioning into a new career. However, choosing a path that offers long-term growth and that aligns with your interests and strengths is essential for sustained success.
As I transitioned in my career, pinpointing a specific discipline in the technology industry and putting in the effort to become proficient in that area proved invaluable. This intentional focus increased my chances of securing opportunities and ensured that I was on a path that offered continuous learning and growth.
My pro tip: Take the time to research different roles in the tech industry and assess their growth potential. Look for informative 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 the career transition into the tech industry as a person of color brings unique challenges.
However, by addressing impostor syndrome, investing in training programs, learning the language of the industry, and choosing a growth-oriented career path, you can overcome these obstacles and thrive in the technology space.
My most important recommendation is to remember that intentionality always trumps unfocused. Be thoughtful in your actions, look for communities that support you, and continuously 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 already in the role you want or even a career coach. Your career advancement is only on the other side of the new you; accept the change; it’s the only way to grow.
https://blog.hubspot.com/marketing/poc-in-tech
