You Belong In Tech 1.0

I have an Earth Science background, and getting into tech was NOT easy. I knew no one in the industry. I ended up sending over 500+ applications, writing a cover letter for each. That got me four interviews total. I didn't even know what the word "agile" or "server" meant. 😅 Ultimately though, through sheer will and luck, I ended up making my way into Product Management at Zynga, and then went to Microsoft and Github. That was my path into tech. Luckily, I was a student, and at the very least I had the bandwidth to send all in all those apps I never heard back from. Unfortunately, that's not the case for many other talented technologists out there today. While there's no shortage of articles on “how to break into tech”, there are hardly enough stories - raw, personal stories - of one’s career journey, especially when coming from these more “non-traditional” backgrounds. Sometimes it's those stories that we need though, that remind us to persevere despite the common-but-unspoken hardships and the personal self-doubt. The tales that don't just highlight the wins, but also showcase the struggles behind the success. There is so much value in the different experiences and perspectives that each of us have. Bringing diversity of thought into the tech industry - that's how we'll solve problems with a truly global audience in mind. In addition to these ones, there's countless more stories and valid paths into tech untold! We call on you to share yours - who knows who you'll inspire? 💛

It’s important to recognize that the privilege of a college education is not as accessible to everyone. And while the hard requirement of a STEM degree is less emphasized these days, there is still a large barrier to entry into tech for folks with non-traditional backgrounds. For those trying to transition into tech with no network or guidance, that journey is incredibly daunting, and it doesn’t stop after they land their first role. Imposter syndrome persists as they experience needing to catch up and keep up with others even when excelling at the highest levels. This has motivated us at Co.Lab to gather 15+ stories of how folks from non-traditional backgrounds got into tech - across software engineering, product design, and product management. We put these booklets together to be transparent about the realities of breaking into tech. Through storytelling, we hope to inspire and motivate folks through actionable tips from those who overcame various obstacles to get to their goal. Because regardless of your background, you bring a unique perspective needed to solve problems through technology to move society forward. You belong in tech.

I really enjoyed some of the stories that were shared! But what's Co.Lab? Tell me more!