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How do I use experience to branch into a different industry?

Veteran

Chris Ekstrom Davenport, IA

I've been out of the military and employed for a large manufacturing company in the IT space.
I'm looking to make a change due to company structural realignment and I think this could be a good time to branch out. I have solid experience in IT. How do you recommend that I transfer that experience into other areas that I might be more interested in? Such as a construction Project Manager. Job shadow, talk with with someone I know, etc?
I am very hands-on and handy but no formal trades experience.

30 April 2020 2 replies Career Exploration

Answers

Advisor

Victoria Okotie Houston, TX

Chris, you have rich experience that would better be applicable in the tech industry. There are a lot of construction project manager roles in the state and government agencies. For instance, notwithstanding the lockdown, Texas Department of Transportation is hiring actively. You can also go on to WorkinTexas which has a lot of those roles open. They often require individuals with IT experience. Another aspect you can look into would be data science, developer, IT architect, or analyst roles. You may need to get some certification to refresh your skills, but your skillset would be significantly transferable.

30 April 2020 Helpful answer

Advisor

Sangya Reddy Willowbrook, IL

I would recommend that you stay in your current role but seek internal opportunities to cross train, job shadow, or gain project experience for the roles you hope to find externally. That way, you can show genuine interest and skill sets in your resume and interview stories when you look to jump ship. It's quite hard to switch companies and roles at the same time without having a senior mentor at a company that is willing to take a big risk.

30 April 2020 Helpful answer

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