![[Pasted image 20241223203815.png]] Career changes can be daunting, filled with uncertainty and doubt: - Feeling like you're starting over ("Am I a graduate again?"). - Facing the unknown ("I have no idea how to do this"). - Competing with recent graduates who seem light-years ahead. Over the years, people have asked how I successfully transitioned from Real Engineering (piping, mechanical, control systems) to what I jokingly call Fake Engineering (software). Here’s my story and advice. --- ## The Year 5 B.S. (Before Software) - **2008-2011**: I started as a mechanical engineer, working in mining construction and earning solid salaries (AUD $55k-95k + site uplifts from 30%-65%). - **2012**: I pivoted to control systems engineering, since its a bit more technology focused. I spent a few years in office and on mine sites, earning up to AUD $1,200/day. - **2014**: After years of traveling and FIFO (fly-in, fly-out) living, I wanted stability, fewer long stints in remote areas, and a chance to work with like-minded people. Between jobs, while lying in bed, my then-girlfriend asked, “Have you ever thought about working in IT?” No, I hadn’t. --- # Why Switch? I’ve always been a super geek, into tech, gadgets and videogames. Just imagine, working on what you enjoy already! The brutal rosters working commissioning on a FIFO roster was taking its toll on my personal and social life. I felt dissociated from society. I liked the idea of working remotely, in a nice comfortable location as a digital nomad. --- # Transitioning Over I taught myself programming, starting with Python and later exploring Ruby on Rails for web development. I created many (Tens? Hundreds?) of small personal projects to understand workflows and develop hands-on skills. My first software job came from connecting with a CEO via the /r/perth subreddit. It was actually as a data analyst in a small company, my engineering background actually helpful to crunching SQL for mining companies. --- # Advice for Others You don't have to have commit to any formal education. Figuring out how to use GitHub projects, watching online courses, and building something will take you far. You'll also save a lot of money. You'll know pretty soon if you don't have what it takes. Software engineering has its challenges—impostor syndrome, self-learning, and steep learning curves are common. If you already have a technical background like engineering or other STEM related field, you'll already have a good mindset for becoming a programmer. --- ### **Looking Back** In the beginning I often questioned my decision. Now? I wouldn't go back, ever. My work life balance is better. I build things I'm actually interested in. I spend my free time learning more. I love what I do and I get paid for doing it. ### Next? While writing this, a few topics came to mind to write about next: - How to come up with decent personal project ideas? - Going a bit deeper on my career movements within software engineering itself, from business analyst, to web developer, to starting a business, to crypto degen