Navigating Career Shifts: Oil Industry to Tech – Breaking into Big Tech Frontiers
Editor’s Note: Embarking on a transformative journey, Ren Jun’s career trajectory witnessed a seismic shift from the oil industry to the dynamic realm of technology. This transition, spurred by the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, unfolded as an opportunity for growth and reinvention.
Oil Industry Upheaval: Catalyst for Change
In the dynamic and ever-evolving corporate world, the only constant is change. My career journey has been a testament to this universal truth, with the COVID-19 pandemic serving as the catalyst for this transformative chapter. In the face of an economic downturn, the oil industry, where I dedicated approximately 2.5 years of my professional life, encountered unprecedented challenges. The company's thorough restructuring and relocation of my department to Bangkok ultimately led to the disheartening news — my layoff.
Tech Industry Leap: From Inaccessibility to Product Management
Armed with a background in Chemical & Biomolecular Engineering and a Master's in Supply Chain and Logistics from Nanyang Technological University, the tech industry initially seemed inaccessible due to the absence of prior experiences. Yet, perceiving challenges as opportunities, I leveraged transferable skills like critical thinking, data-savvy and stakeholder management and took a leap of faith. This mindset shift resulted in a successful landing in a Product Management role with a tech giant, breaking into the forefront of Big Tech.
Agility in Tech: Navigating the Fast-Paced Unknown
Transitioning from the structured oil industry to the fast-paced, unpredictable world of technology posed a challenge. The Tech industry demanded agility and quick decision-making, contrasting sharply with the slow unfolding of initiatives in my previous role where they took months and even years to complete. This shift compelled me to adapt swiftly, instilling newfound confidence in making impactful decisions. In my role of a Product Manager, the necessity for rapid decision-making became apparent, emphasizing the autonomy bestowed upon individuals in shaping the business direction.
Expanding Horizons: From Product Management to Business Consultancy
My journey in the Tech industry continued evolving beyond Product Management. Drawn to a role blending business consultancy with program management in another multinational tech company, I found joy and meaning in shaping diverse user experiences in my professional career.
Career Insights: Lessons Beyond Industry Boundaries
Reflecting on this transformative journey, the lessons extend beyond industry specifics. Comfort and complacency are adversaries of progress; excelling at your job doesn't guarantee immunity from upheavals like layoffs. Understanding emerging skills and industry trends is crucial for staying relevant in this rapidly evolving job market. Proactively learn and acquire new skills while honing existing transferrable skills to future-proof yourself. It's acceptable not to have a precise career roadmap; recognizing what you don't want can be equally enlightening.
