2. Tom’s Leap from Retail to IT: A Career Reinvention
After 15 years in retail management, Tom craved change. Although he had a stable career, his fascination with technology pulled at him. With only a high school diploma, he feared it was too late to enter IT—until a co-worker mentioned a local adult education program offering certifications in computer science.
Despite his apprehensions, Tom enrolled in an online IT certification program. Within two years, he earned his certifications and transitioned to an IT support specialist role, quickly advancing to a systems analyst position.