Switching careers can feel scary. But today, more people than ever are moving into STEM careers, even if they did not start with a technology or science background. These careers are in high demand and offer great pay, job security, and exciting work.
If you studied business, arts, social sciences, or any non-tech subject, you can still move into STEM. It is possible, and many people are already doing it.
So, let’s look at the skills you need, where to learn them, and how to get your first job in STEM.
Why Switch to a STEM Career?
STEM jobs are growing fast. According to the World Economic Forum, jobs in technology, data science, engineering, and AI will grow by more than 30% in 2025. These jobs are not only growing, they pay well and let you solve interesting problems.
STEM careers also offer flexibility. Many tech jobs let you work from home or from anywhere in the world.
More importantly, STEM careers are future-proof. As more companies use technology, people who know coding, data analysis, or cybersecurity will always be needed.
Step 1: Choose a STEM Field That Matches Your Interests
STEM is a big world. You do not have to learn everything. Start by picking an area that feels exciting or fits with your current skills.
If you love numbers, you might enjoy data analysis. If you are creative, UI/UX design or web development may be right. If you care about safety, cybersecurity is a great field. If you enjoy fixing problems, consider cloud computing or software engineering.
Here are some of the fastest-growing STEM fields for career changers:
- Data Science and Analytics
- Web Development and Software Engineering
- Cybersecurity
- Cloud Computing
- UI/UX Design
- Robotics and Automation
- Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning
Step 2: Learn the Basics with Online Courses
You do not need to return to university for a full degree. Most people start learning STEM skills through online courses, certifications, and hands-on practice.
Websites like Coursera, edX, Udemy, and LinkedIn Learning offer beginner-friendly courses. For coding, platforms like FreeCodeCamp, Codecademy, and CS50 by Harvard are very popular.
For data science, start with Excel, then move to Python or SQL. For web development, learn HTML, CSS, and JavaScript. For cybersecurity, try TryHackMe or Cybrary.
The key is to start small. Take one course, practice it, then move to the next.
Step 3: Build Hands-On Projects
Employers care about what you can do, not just what you know. The best way to show this is by building real projects.
If you are learning web development, build a personal website or a small app. If you are learning data analysis, download public datasets and practice cleaning data, making charts, or doing analysis.
If you are into cybersecurity, try capture-the-flag (CTF) challenges or ethical hacking labs. For cloud computing, set up websites or apps using Amazon Web Services (AWS) or Google Cloud.
These projects become your proof of skills and can be shown on your resume, LinkedIn, or GitHub.
Step 4: Get Certified
Certifications help prove your skills when you are new to STEM. They are not always required, but are very helpful for career changers.
Here are some beginner-friendly certifications:
- Google Data Analytics Certificate (for data science)
- CompTIA Security+ (for cybersecurity)
- AWS Certified Cloud Practitioner (for cloud computing)
- Scrum Master Certification (for project management in tech)
- Meta Front-End Developer Certificate (for web development)
Certifications show employers that you are serious and have real skills.
Step 5: Network with STEM Professionals
Switching careers is not just about learning; it is also about meeting people in the field.
Join LinkedIn groups for data science, cybersecurity, or tech in Nigeria. Attend free webinars, tech meetups, or online workshops.
Follow STEM leaders like Dr. Anne-Marie Imafidon from Stemettes, Uchenna Owuamaegbu-Ugwu, STEM Queen, and founder of Edufun Technik STEM Foundation, or Nigerian tech communities like She Code Africa, Ingressive for Good, and Tech4Dev.
Many jobs are found through connections, not just job boards.
Step 6: Update Your Resume and LinkedIn Profile
When you switch to STEM, your resume should show your new skills, even if your past jobs were not in tech.
List your certifications, projects, and courses. Add links to your GitHub, portfolio, or website.
In your summary, write clearly: “Aspiring Data Analyst with a background in marketing, skilled in Excel, SQL, and Python.”
On LinkedIn, post about your learning journey. Share when you complete courses or build projects. This helps you get noticed by recruiters.
Step 7: Apply for Entry-Level Jobs, Internships, or Freelance Work
Start by applying for internships, junior roles, or even volunteer tech projects.
Many companies welcome people who show they are hardworking and ready to learn, even if they are career changers.
Look for roles like:
- Junior Web Developer
- Data Analyst Intern
- IT Support Specialist
- Cybersecurity Trainee
- Cloud Support Associate
You can also find freelance work on Upwork, Fiverr, or Toptal. Freelancing helps you build experience while earning money.
Step 8: Keep Learning and Growing
Technology changes fast. Even after getting your first STEM job, keep learning. Join coding challenges, attend hackathons, or take advanced courses.
Growth never stops in STEM, and that is one of the best things about it.
Success Stories of People Who Switched to STEM
Many people around the world have switched from non-tech backgrounds to STEM careers.
Iyinoluwa Aboyeji, co-founder of Andela and Flutterwave, studied legal studies but became one of Nigeria’s top tech founders.
Ruth Ikegah, a Nigerian open-source contributor, started in microbiology but became a community manager and tech advocate.
These stories show that with passion and learning, anyone can switch into STEM.
Conclusion: Your STEM Career Starts Today
Switching to a STEM career from a non-tech background is not only possible, it is happening every day around the world. If you are curious, willing to learn, and ready to try, STEM is open for you.
Start with one small step. Take that first free coding class. Watch that first data science video. Build that simple website. Every expert started as a beginner.
The future is waiting, and it is yours to create.
