Is Technology a Good Career Path?

With technology jobs booming around the world, many people wonder if technology is a good career path. From the outside, it might look like an exclusive field for math whizzes and computer experts, but it’s more accessible than you might think — many jobs don’t even require a college degree.

Why Technology Is a Thriving Career Path

As technology becomes increasingly integrated into every aspect of daily life, the demand for skilled professionals in tech-related fields continues to soar. From data science and cybersecurity to artificial intelligence (AI) and cloud computing, businesses across all industries need experts who can build, manage, and innovate the systems that power their operations. A quick job search reveals thousands of open roles and that demand is only growing.

According to CompTIA, the U.S. tech workforce was projected to grow by 3.1% in 2024, adding more than 300,000 new jobs and bringing the total number of tech workers to around 9.9 million^[1]. That’s nearly double the growth rate of the overall U.S. employment market. This sustained expansion highlights tech as one of the most stable and opportunity-rich sectors today.

Technology roles also come with significant financial upside. In 2024, one survey found that U.S. IT professionals reported an average total compensation of $165,467 — an 8% increase from the previous year^[2]. Many tech roles also have skill overlaps, so the knowledge and certifications you gain in one area can often be applied in others, making it easier to pivot or advance without starting over. Whether you’re working in software development, cybersecurity, or data analytics, building a strong foundation in tech can pay dividends throughout your career.

Another major perk of a tech career is flexibility. The technology sector continues to lead the way in remote work, with 67.8% of tech employees working remotely in 2024—the highest percentage of any industry^[3]. This makes tech an appealing option for those seeking location independence, work-life balance, or the freedom to travel while still advancing professionally.

Importantly, technology jobs aren’t limited to tech companies. Industries like healthcare, finance, retail, entertainment, education, and government all rely on tech talent to run secure, efficient, and scalable systems. In fact, nearly every industry now depends on digital infrastructure, making tech skills both versatile and recession-resistant. As a tech professional, you’ll play a key role in helping organizations maintain secure, efficient systems that evolve with the latest trends.

With competitive salaries, strong job security, remote work opportunities, and nearly unlimited pathways for growth, it’s clear that launching a career in tech today is a smart investment in your future.

What Is Considered a Tech Career?

Tech careers involve working with technology solutions, including software, hardware, programs, networks, data systems, and code. Some of the most common technology roles include:

• Software developer
• Web developer
• Data scientist
• Cybersecurity analyst
• Cloud engineer
• IT support specialist
• UX/UI designer
• AI/ML engineer
• DevOps engineer
• Product manager

The Skills You Need for a Successful Career in Technology

Most technology jobs require some technical skills, but the specific skills you’ll need depend largely on the role. For example, positions like software development or data analysis often require programming knowledge, while roles such as UX/UI designer or product manager may focus more on design thinking, research, or business strategy. Once you’ve built a foundation of relevant skills, you’ll open the door to a wide range of opportunities in tech. Some businesses also provide on-the-job training, so you don’t necessarily need to master everything before applying.

Strong critical thinking and problem-solving skills are essential in tech. When the code won’t compile or a system glitches, it’s your job to assess the situation, troubleshoot effectively, and resolve the issue quickly. Businesses rely on minimal downtime to stay competitive, and a major outage or data breach could seriously damage their reputation.

Communication is just as important as technical expertise. You’ll often collaborate with a mix of people: managers, designers, IT pros, stakeholders, and even teams with little or no technical background. Being able to clearly explain your work in everyday terms isn’t just helpful – it’s crucial to your success.

How to Start Your Career in Technology

Identify Your Area of Interest

Find a technology field that interests you. Try asking yourself these self-assessment questions:

• Are you a creative or analytical thinker?
• Are you good at solving logic puzzles?
• Do you prefer questions with only one right answer?
• Would you prefer to work alone or with a team?
• Do you enjoy building, analyzing, or designing?

If you’re unsure, think about the software, technology, and programs you enjoy using. You could enter a field where you build these programs for other people.

Next, consider your education and skill set. Some fields allow you to jump in right away, while others require a 4-year degree or advanced certifications. Research your chosen field, and decide if you’re willing to commit time and money to higher education.

Many roles in tech, creative, or service industries allow you to start with minimal formal education, especially if you have strong skills, a portfolio, or certifications. Examples include:

• Digital marketing
• Web development (especially front-end)
• Graphic design
• IT support
• Sales and customer success
• Content creation or copywriting
• Data entry or analytics associate roles

Some industries expect a more traditional educational background, especially for mid- to senior-level roles or those with legal, safety, or scientific responsibilities. Examples of fields that typically require a 4-year degree include:

• Software engineering (especially back-end or full stack)
• Civil, mechanical, or electrical engineering
• Accounting and finance
• Healthcare (e.g., nursing, medical lab technician, physical therapy)
• Architecture
• Education and teaching
• Legal professions

Finally, think about your goals. How much do you want to make? What does your ideal work/life balance look like? When do you want to retire? You might have to make some compromises, especially when starting out, but keeping an eye on your goals helps you enjoy a long, satisfying career.

Skill Sets and Career Paths

If you’re a curious and analytical person, you might thrive in data analytics and cybersecurity roles. You’ll work with sensitive, confidential data, so you’ll need to think logically and come up with the best solutions. Sometimes, you’ll have to explore new technologies or get ahead of potential crises.

Creative and visual people often excel in UX/UI design and front-end development (learn more about what a web developer does here). This involves designing the interfaces that people use every day. Your job responsibilities may include designing layouts, choosing color schemes, drawing icons, testing prototypes, performing user research, and constructing user flows for websites, programs, and mobile apps.

Typically, process-oriented people enjoy QA testing and project management. These roles involve following a set schedule, sticking to the rules, keeping everyone on track, and presenting the final product. Periodically, you might resolve conflicts, talk to your team about setbacks, and figure out how to get the project back on track.

Salary Expectations by Domain

Let’s take a look at the median salaries for tech jobs in 2024:

• Software developer: $131,450
• Information security analyst: $124,910
• Web developer: $95,380
• Programmer: $98,670

Your salary may vary depending on your company, education, and years of experience. If you’re prepared to negotiate, research the average salary in your area and discuss it with your employer.

Transitioning From Another Field

You don’t need a traditional tech background to break into the industry.

If you have experience in another field, chances are you already have valuable skills that transfer well to tech. Project management, customer service, communication, sales, problem-solving, and analytical thinking are all highly sought after. Even a role in fast food shows you know how to work under pressure and collaborate as part of a team.

Take Online Courses to Learn the Latest Skills

Udemy offers several courses, such as this IT Support Technical Skills Bootcamp, that can help you launch your IT career. These classes build your IT foundation to give you the skills potential employers look for when hiring.

There are also thousands of advanced and niche courses designed for professionals already working in tech who want to upskill, specialize, or prepare for leadership roles. Whether you’re moving from IT support to cloud engineering or looking to sharpen your Python or cybersecurity skills, there’s an IT course to meet you where you are.

One of the biggest advantages of taking online courses over traditional education is speed and flexibility. Traditional education often does not keep up with emerging trends and technologies, focusing on established concepts and strategies. In contrast, Udemy’s open marketplace enables instructors to quickly release or update courses on the latest tools and techniques, allowing learners to stay ahead of the curve in real time.

Udemy courses are also designed for busy professionals. You can learn at your own pace, revisit lessons as needed, and fit education into your schedule without the rigid structure or cost of a full-time degree program.

As we mentioned before, not all IT careers require a college degree. Data analysis, web development, IT support, QA testing, and digital marketing are a few areas where you can land a job without one. If you don’t want to stay in these fields forever, you can start with an entry-level job, then move to more highly paid positions once you’ve earned a few years of experience.

Build Practical Experience

Practical experience shows employers you can complete projects, think on your feet, and tackle issues as soon as they arise. If you haven’t worked in this industry before, complete a few personal projects and add them to your resume. This is a fun way to build experience because you’ll develop projects that interest you.

Participate in open-source communities and look for opportunities for internships or apprenticeships. Some businesses transfer you to a part- or full-time position after your internship. You’ll also get the chance to network, ask questions, and learn from the experts.

How to Grow Your Career in Technology

Follow these tips to grow your career in technology: 

• Stay up-to-date on new technologies: Keep track of the latest advancements in the tech field. Try subscribing to industry newsletters, following professionals on LinkedIn, keeping up with newly added Udemy technology courses, and checking the news every week. Staying on top of news makes you more valuable to employers, and you’ll know when you need to learn a new skill or search for a different position.
• Obtain certifications: Continuing your education could lead to promotions and raises in the future. Look for opportunities to earn certifications in specialized areas, such as machine learning, cloud computing, and AI. Many programs take only a few months and offer low fees that suit your budget.
• Network with other professionals: Networking can open better opportunities, so attend events, conferences, and meetups in your area and introduce yourself to fellow professionals. You could also join online groups, comment on social media posts, and reach out to leaders to request a one-on-one meeting. Some companies host livestreams and online events with more chances to network.
• Showcase Your Thought Leadership: Create blog posts or social media updates that discuss current events and trends in technology. Offer your perspective on how these developments are influencing the industry and where you believe technology is headed in the future. This is an effective way to position yourself as a thought leader in this space, and demonstrate your skills and knowledge to potential employers.

The Future of Technology Careers

Emerging technologies like cryptocurrency, blockchain, AI, and quantum computing are rapidly gaining traction.

While diving into these fields carries some risk, your contributions could spark innovation, fuel research, and even drive profits. If one of these cutting-edge areas sparks your interest, take time to explore job paths and potential entry points.  With how rapidly these technologies are growing, your own work history and experience could be a difference-maker.

Remote and hybrid work have also expanded the tech landscape.

Many companies now support fully remote teams, opening up job opportunities across the globe. You could even become a “digital nomad,” working online while exploring the world. Of course, if you’re an extrovert who thrives on in-person collaboration, you might find more energy and success in a traditional office setting. The beauty of tech is that it offers both.

So, is tech still a good career path?

Absolutely. With global reliance on technology only increasing, and advancements in AI reshaping how we live and work, tech offers strong job security, flexibility, and room to grow. Whether you’re just starting out or switching careers, there’s a place for you in tech.

Common Myths About Tech Careers

Myths about tech careers are often a barrier to those considering a career in the industry. Let’s look at some of those myths below: 

Myth: All Technology Careers Require a Computer Science Degree

One common myth is that all technology careers require a computer science degree. However, some jobs don’t — if you understand the technology, you’re qualified. Others require a 2-year degree or certifications, which you could earn in a few months.

What matters most is the skills necessary to perform the role effectively. Bootcamps and self-study provide another path toward building those skills and landing a job. You’ll need dedication and a strong work ethic, but when you’re done, you’ll be ready to launch your career without taking on tens of thousands of dollars in student loans.

Myth: All Tech Employees Are Math Experts

While basic math skills help, many tech roles rely far more on logic, communication, and problem-solving. Whether you’re writing code or designing user interfaces, success often comes down to your ability to evaluate different factors and make sound, logical decisions, not solving calculus problems.

Myth: Tech Jobs Are Isolating

From the outside, technology might look like an isolating field. However, tech jobs often involve collaborating with a team to complete projects for your clients.

Everyone on your team has a specific role, such as coding, troubleshooting, or project management. Throughout the process, you’ll send emails, hold face-to-face meetings, and keep your clients updated.

Myth: You’ll Be Stuck Behind a Computer Screen

Many roles involve regular interaction with clients, stakeholders, and cross-functional teams to keep projects aligned and on track. You might attend conferences, networking events, team-building activities, corporate lunches, or yes, the occasional Zoom marathon. Tech can be as collaborative and people-focused as any other field. You may even find you have more autonomy in how your workload or calendar is managed for those times when you are either craving collaboration or need focus time.

Udemy Courses to Help You Start or Advance Your Tech Career

Tech Career Foundations: Land Your First Job in Tech is a free course with all the advice you need to jumpstart your career. This class helps you find your strengths, learn about job fields, polish your skills, succeed at interviews, work in a team, and maintain a healthy work/life balance.

For more specific topics, check out our IT and software courses. Learn about Amazon AWS, CompTIA A+, ChatGPT, DevOps, and other brands.

We also provide classes that cover broader topics, such as cybersecurity, ethical hacking, information security, and AI. Our selection includes a wide range of materials, course lengths, and fees.

Start Your Technology Career With Udemy Today

If you’re willing to learn, adapt, and stay curious, you could help build software, programs, or hardware used by millions. Tech careers offer strong salaries, long-term job security, and opportunities for growth, making it a great option for anyone hoping to change paths or grow a career that’s both meaningful and built to last.

If you’re ready to get started, Udemy offers hundreds of courses covering everything from coding and cybersecurity to data science and design. Enroll in a class today and take the first step toward your future in tech.

[1] https://www.comptia.org/content/research/state-of-the-tech-workforce

[2] https://www.techtarget.com/searchCIO/feature/AI-economy-affect-2024-tech-workforce-trends-survey-shows

[3] https://neat.no/resources/top-remote-work-statistics/