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5-Step Guide to Building Your Dream Tech Career in 2025
HOW TO START A CAREER IN TECH
Breaking into the tech industry can feel overwhelming, especially with so many roles, skills, and pathways to choose from. But guess what? You don’t have to figure it all out at once! By breaking it down and taking it step by step, you’ll find a path that’s not only achievable but also fulfilling. So, start the year strong with our five-step plan to kickstart your dream tech career this year.
Step 1: Reflect and Define Your Goals
The first step in your tech journey is figuring out what you want to be. Think about this: do you see yourself thriving in data-driven roles, shaping products, or building software? Maybe you’re passionate about a specific mission—like transitioning from healthcare to health tech—or you want to channel skills from a previous career into the tech world.
It’s okay to feel uncertain at this stage. The tech industry moves fast, and while you might not land your ideal role right away, the beauty of tech is its flexibility. With experience and the right skills, pivoting into your dream job becomes much easier.
💡 Pro Tip: Think of rejection as redirection. Every step in your journey builds skills and connections that bring you closer to where you want to be.
Once you’ve defined your goals, the next step is researching! Explore the tech career paths that align with your interests and strengths. Remember, these paths aren’t one-size-fits-all—there are countless alternative roles and job titles under each umbrella.
Taking the time to understand your options helps you map out a plan tailored to your vision.
Step 2: Get Familiar with available routes into tech
So, you’ve researched potential careers in tech but aren’t sure what’s for you? Let’s start by asking yourself a few questions!
- Which aspects of the job role excite me the most
- Which role fits my personality and strengths?
- Are there aspects of my personality that could suit this role?
- Would this role align with my personal goals?
Perhaps write the answers down in your diary or journal, maybe even in your vision board – to help plan and visualise your goals.
Some common pathways into tech
Software Engineer (SE)
Software Engineers create and maintain the software we use every day, like apps and websites. They use programming languages like JavaScript and Python to solve problems and build efficient tech solutions. If you enjoy creating and fixing things, this could be the role for you!
Data Analyst
Data Analysts focus on understanding and explaining data. They collect, clean, and turn raw data into easy-to-understand reports and dashboards. Their work helps teams make smarter decisions. If you’re detail-oriented and love finding patterns, this role might be perfect for you!
Data Scientist
Data Scientists take data analysis to the next level by working with large and complex data sets. They build models and use advanced tools to predict trends and solve big problems. If you enjoy math, coding, and tackling tough challenges, you’ll thrive here!
Product Manager (PM)
Product Managers lead the development and success of tech products, like apps or tools. They plan, organise, and communicate to ensure a product meets its goals. This role is ideal for people who love problem-solving, teamwork, and staying organised.
Full-Stack Developer (FSD)
Full-Stack Developers are the all-rounders of tech. They work on both the front end (what users see) and the back end (how it works behind the scenes) of websites and apps. If you like variety and learning different skills, this career offers plenty of opportunities to grow.
Step 3: Enhance Your Skills
Building a tech career means building the right skills. Whether you’re starting from scratch, refreshing your knowledge, or deepening your expertise, Code First Girls provide lots of free learning opportunities to help you at every stage of your journey.
Tech Tasters
Why choose a Tech Taster?
- Short taster sessions across 4 lessons
- Flexible learning around other life commitments
- Ideal for beginners or those needing a quick refresh
- Covers a wide range of topics, from basics to more technical subjects
💡 Example: Dive into introductory courses like Intro to Coding or challenge yourself with Intro to AI and ML. MOOCs offer a foundational understanding of your chosen field at your own pace.
Coding Kickstarter Classes
Why take a class?
- Expand your skills in just eight modules with self-paced learning
- Perfect for learners ready to dive deeper into specific tech topics
- Helps build expertise directly related to job roles or career goals
- A stepping stone to more advanced programs like the CFGdegree
💡 Example: If you’re pursuing a career in software development, a class on object-oriented programming could give you the edge you need.
CFGDegree
Why the CFGdegree?
- Intensive course spread across 16 weeks including a foundational layer and 9 weeks of specialisation to build up your skills.
- Designed for women aspiring to enter the tech industry.
- Provides an immersive, structured program tailored to industry demands.
- Combines technical skills with career support to help you land your first tech role.
- Linked directly to entry-level jobs in tech!
💡 Example: Graduates have gone on to secure roles in top tech companies thanks to this hands-on, practical training.
Step 4: Get Experience
The best way to solidify your learning is through real-world practice. There are many ways to gain real-life experience, here’s a few of our favourites:
Personal Projects: Start building apps, websites, or tools that showcase your skills.
Freelance Work: Offer your services to small businesses or non-profits to build your portfolio.
Internships and Apprenticeships: Gain professional experience while learning on the job.
Hackathons and Competitions: A great way to collaborate, solve problems, and connect with others in tech.
💡 Remember: Experience doesn’t have to be formal. Showcasing what you’ve created or contributed to can often speak louder than certifications.
Step 5: Collate and Showcase your Skills
Once you’ve developed and practised your skills, it’s time to present them in the best light!
Build a Portfolio
- Include projects you’ve worked on, certifications such as those collected from our CFG courses, and any relevant experience such as freelance or professional work.
- Demonstrate problem-solving abilities and creativity through your work.
- Highlight the tools and technologies you’re proficient with, and tailor them to your specific career pathway.
💡 Tip: Confidence and storytelling can set you apart. Be ready to explain how your journey, skills, and goals align with the role you’re applying for.
Polish Your Resume and LinkedIn
- Tailor your resume to highlight key skills and achievements.
- Optimise your LinkedIn profile with an attention-grabbing summary and endorsements from people you’ve worked with.
Prepare for Interviews
- Practice common tech interview questions.
- Showcase not only your technical skills but also your ability to collaborate and learn.
Did you know: We provide short courses on Intro to Career Development & Assessment to help prep for interviews and appraisals? Check out what Tech Tasters we have on offer right now!
