Are you thinking about changing your career to IT or cyber security but worried about losing your current high salary? If yes, this guide is crafted just for you, especially if you have a family to support and don’t want to take a big pay cut.
Understanding the Challenge
A person reached out with a similar situation. They’ve worked in healthcare for 14 years as a cardiac sonographer. Despite their love for the job, they’re feeling burned out. With two little kids and a new home, they’re making $72 an hour without a degree. Now, they’re thinking about moving into IT or cyber security but are unsure where to start or how to transition without losing too much income. They’re interested in quickly gaining a relevant degree while continuing to work.
Deciding Between IT and Cyber Security
If you’re in a similar situation, choosing between IT and cyber security can be tough. Here’s some advice to help make that decision:
- Interest in Cyber Security: If cyber security has always been your passion, it’s a good sign to pursue it.
- Salary Considerations: Cyber security tends to have a higher salary floor compared to IT roles. Therefore, aiming for cyber security could be beneficial in the long run.
Two Key Approaches
There are mainly two ways to enter the field:
- Gain Experience Fast: Study hard for 2-3 months and land an IT job quickly. This path leads to gaining experience sooner but might start you off with a lower salary.
- Sharpen Your Skills: Spend more time learning and preparing. This involves getting a degree, relevant certifications, and building a portfolio to enter the field with a potentially higher salary.
Steps to Make a Successful Transition
To smoothly transition into IT or cyber security, consider the following steps:
Start with Education
- Listen to Industry Podcasts: Podcasts like Cyber Daily and Darknet Diaries can give you insight into the field and keep you updated with the latest trends.
- Pursue a Degree: Consider getting a cyber security degree. Online universities like WGU offer programs that can be completed alongside your job.
Get the Right Certifications
Besides a degree, obtaining certifications like CISSP can make you a strong candidate for high-paying roles. These certifications are recognized and can open doors to opportunities in IT and cyber security.
Build Practical Experience
- Engaging in real-world projects, internships, or courses designed to bridge the gap between knowledge and job readiness.
- Creating a portfolio that showcases your abilities to potential employers.
Prepare for Interviews
Use resources like chatbots or interview question compilations to practice answering typical and technical questions related to cyber security. Being well-prepared will significantly boost your confidence during interviews.
Conclusion
Making a career switch to IT or cyber security is a big decision, especially when you have a family to support and a stable income to maintain. However, with the right preparation, education, and network, transitioning to a new, fulfilling career in tech is absolutely achievable without sacrificing your salary standards. Remember to take one step at a time, be consistent in your efforts, and stay positive throughout your journey!
By the way, don’t forget to check out my Hands-On IT and Cybersecurity Course to help you bridge the gap between just being skilled and actually landing a job!