Why I Returned to IT After 10 Years
For the past decade, my career has been deeply rooted in the construction industry, where I thrived in project coordination and office management. It was a dynamic and challenging space, but after ten years, I found myself drawn back to my original field: IT. The decision to return wasn't just about revisiting a familiar industry—it was about embracing the evolution of technology, workplace culture, and my own career aspirations in a post-pandemic world.
The Shift from Construction Back to IT
When I initially transitioned from IT into construction, I was seeking new challenges and stability. The construction sector provided that, offering hands-on experience in project management, stakeholder coordination, and problem-solving under pressure. However, the rapid advancements in IT, particularly in cloud computing, cybersecurity, and digital business solutions, reinforced my interest in the sector's ongoing evolution.
Returning to IT after a decade away felt both daunting and exciting. The industry had transformed—remote work had become mainstream, digital transformation was accelerating, and collaboration had shifted towards more integrated, technology-driven solutions. Despite these changes, my foundational skills in project management, problem-solving, and process optimisation remained highly relevant.
Transitioning to a Mid-Sized IT Company
One of the most significant choices in my return to IT was joining AltTab, a mid-sized technology company rather than a large corporation. Having previously worked in a large enterprise, I was familiar with the structured processes and extensive resources such organisations provide. However, this time, I sought a more dynamic environment where I could directly contribute to projects and adapt to a more agile workflow.
In a smaller organisation like AlTab, there is often greater visibility over one's contributions, more direct engagement with leadership, and a faster-paced decision-making process. Working in such an environment has allowed me to apply my project coordination expertise while expanding my knowledge of emerging IT trends and business strategies.
IT Post-Pandemic: Expectations vs. Reality
Re-entering the IT sector post-pandemic, I had several expectations—many of which aligned with reality, while others brought new insights. The normalisation of remote and hybrid work has created a more flexible working culture, something that was less prevalent when I initially left the industry. Advanced collaboration tools now enable seamless communication across teams, irrespective of location.
The rapid evolution of cybersecurity and cloud-based technologies meant that I needed to upskill quickly. The emphasis on continuous learning and adaptability in IT helped facilitate this transition. Additionally, I was encouraged to see a growing number of women entering and excelling in the tech industry. While there is still work to be done in achieving gender diversity, the presence of mentorship programs and professional networks has become increasingly valuable.
Looking Ahead
Returning to IT after a decade in construction has reaffirmed the importance of adaptability and lifelong learning. The transition has come with challenges, but it has also provided opportunities to leverage my experience in a fresh context, particularly with AltTab, a company that values innovation and collaboration.
For professionals considering a career shift—whether moving into IT for the first time or returning after time away—my advice is to remain open to change, actively pursue learning opportunities, and seek environments that align with personal and professional growth goals. The IT industry continues to evolve, and there has never been a more exciting time to be part of its transformation.
