DISCLAIMER: Although this blog is written primarily for women, it can also be useful for men who want a fresh start and have chosen to pursue a career in IT.
Parental leave often brings a fresh perspective on life—and sometimes, the desire for a career change. For many women (and occasionally men), it’s the perfect time to explore new challenges and learn new skills. The IT sector offers a wide range of opportunities, from programming and testing to web design. I decided to embark on this journey during my parental leave, and here are my top tips for breaking into IT while still managing family life.
1. Discover What Truly Interests You in the IT World
The first and most important step is finding out which area of IT excites you. During my free moments, I began researching various IT roles and realized I was drawn to programming and testing. The more I learned, the clearer it became that this was the path I wanted to pursue.
Tip: Spend time exploring what really interests you. Follow blogs, watch videos, and read stories from other women who have taken similar journeys. Don’t be afraid to try new things to discover what truly inspires you.
2. Start with Online Courses—Even When the Kids Are Sleeping
Once I knew I wanted to pursue IT, I began with online courses. I started with a Python course on YouTube and later discovered Webrebel 1 by Yablko. I studied whenever I had a free moment—often during the kids’ naps or in the evening when my husband came home and could help with childcare.
Tip: Choose courses that allow you to learn at your own pace, such as those on platforms like Udemy, Skillmea, or live instructor-led courses. I preferred the latter and tried a course with Czechitas. Study whenever you have a few spare minutes, even if it’s only a few minutes a day. Every step brings you closer to your goal.
3. Don’t Be Afraid to Try Different Technologies
Beginnings can be overwhelming and a bit chaotic, but that’s entirely normal. I initially planned to deepen my knowledge of Python, but when I couldn’t find a course, I signed up for a semester course on HTML & CSS with Czechitas. Along the way, I added JavaScript to my skill set and completed two smaller Python courses. Even now, I continue to learn alongside my job; this year, I expanded my skills with React.
Tip: The IT field is vast, and each new skill opens doors to more opportunities. Don’t hesitate to try different technologies and expand your skills, even if you start in one specific area.
4. Prepare for Interviews and Be Confident
After completing my courses, I decided to start job hunting. I came across a junior tester position at Cassovia Code and knew this was my chance. To prepare thoroughly, I took a basics course in testing and additional testing courses on Skillmea, which gave me confidence and the necessary knowledge.
Tip: When preparing for an interview, review the fundamentals that may be part of the assessments. Familiarize yourself with common questions, and practice your answers. Believe in yourself and show that you’re eager to learn and grow. Confidence is key to success.
5. How to Break into IT? Have a Clear Goal and Don’t Give Up!
Balancing childcare with learning isn’t easy, but if you have a clear goal, you can make it work. I created a simple “study plan” to help me make steady progress.
Tip: Dedicate time to learning every day, even if it’s just small steps. It doesn’t matter how fast you progress—what counts is that you don’t give up. Each step brings you closer to your dreams, and that’s what matters.
Simona Ignácz
This article was written by our tester, Simona, who only recently joined the IT field but is already working on her first programming tasks thanks to her strong motivation and eagerness to learn. She enthusiastically embraces new technologies to ensure the quality of digital products and, in the future, aims to contribute to software development itself.
