How to transition into a career within Cloud-based Technology

In this interview, we sit down with a seasoned data analytics expert, Ritu Tyagi, to discuss her journey from the world of SAP to cloud-based data and analytics. Let's delve into Ritu’s background, experiences, and the ever-evolving tech landscape. 

Introducing Our Expert 

Please introduce yourself and tell us about your background, career highlights, and current situation. 

Thank you for having me. I have over a decade of experience in data analytics, data engineering, and data science. I started as an SAP BI consultant, implementing large-scale end to end business intelligence solutions for multinational clients. During this journey, I learned the importance of how data can help with critical business decisions. I then transitioned to cloud-based data and analytics working with AWS, Snowflake, Azure, and other self-service analytic tools. I have led projects and teams and I am currently an assistant manager at KPMG in Germany, working on an enterprise-level cloud data platform. 

SAP's Impact on Career Growth 

What aspects of SAP as a business and solution provider captured your interest when you started your tech career? 

SAP was considered a niche skill with high demand, making it an appealing choice. It offered challenging projects and the opportunity to collaborate closely with clients, understanding their business needs and translating them into technical solutions. These aspects drew me into the world of SAP and laid the foundation for my career growth.  

Transitioning from SAP to Data Analytics 

What aspects of your experience with SAP were transferable and valuable when you transitioned into the cloud-based data and analytics field, and what new skills did you develop? 

My time as an SAP BI consultant honed my critical thinking, problem-solving, communication, and analytical skills, which were transferable to the cloud-based data and analytics domain. While implementing end to end business intelligence solutions on SAP for my clients, I gained sound expertise in data warehousing, data modeling, and reporting which were very much needed for the development of enterprise level cloud-based data platforms as well. The coding experience I gained in SAP was useful, and I only needed to adapt to new coding languages like Python. Additionally, I needed to learn about code hosting platform such as Github for version control and collaboration, which laid the groundwork for my transition. It was critical for me to acquaint with cloud computing concepts and understand cloud infrastructure components such as servers, storage, network, and security. 

Advice for Transitioning Professionals 

What advice or steps would you recommend for professionals interested in making a similar transition into cloud-based data and analytics?

Firstly, have an open mind and curiosity to learn new things. Talk to mentors and project managers whilst understanding the challenges you might face during the transition. Investing time into online learning platforms and gaining certifications is critical to building confidence in your new skills. Lastly, it is important to create a portfolio of small projects to highlight your theoretical and practical knowledge when applying for interviews. 

Cloudera, CloudGuru, and Plural Sight offer some great self-training courses to help kickstart your understanding of technology.  

Recommended Certifications  

Are there any certifications you would recommend for those interested in cloud-based data and analytics? 

I would suggest starting with fundamental certifications on your preferred cloud platform (AWS, Azure, Google Cloud). From there, pick certifications relevant to your interests such as data engineering, machine learning, or DevOps. 

I started with taking up online courses to learn fundamentals of cloud computing and cloud-based data warehousing. I did my first course via Alteryx, a self-services analytical tool, where I did a core as well as advanced certification, before moving into my chosen cloud certification in Azure.  

Adapting to AI and Emerging Trends 

As AI becomes more integrated into data analytics, what emerging trends or technologies should professionals stay aware of to stay relevant? 

AI is transforming every industry in the context of data analytics. Reason for this is that AI is capable of processing vast amounts of data to make predictions which can be used in taking critical decisions for strategic growth of any business. Professionals associated with data & analytics should focus on honing the skills around data governance & privacy because exponential growth of data also comes with privacy & security risks and industries who want to capitalize on benefits of AI in future will have to implement strict & efficient data governance and management solutions.

Additionally, consultants with the capability of core business understanding will be in high demand because they will have what is needed to bridge the gap between business needs and technology. Storytelling skills will be extremely crucial within the domain of data visualisation. Finally with the implementation of more and more machine learning models to automate data & analytics tasks via augmented analytics, it would be highly critical to manage computational and storage resources effectively. These skills will be critical in leveraging AI to derive valuable insights from data. 

Motivations for Transitioning to Cloud 

What are the primary motivations for companies making the transition from on-premises to cloud, and what benefits do they typically experience after adopting cloud technology? 

Companies are motivated by cost-efficiency, scalability, enabling agile analytics, and supporting advanced data analytics use cases. Cloud adoption provides predictable cost models, the flexibility to scale resources, and the capability to execute sophisticated data analytic tasks efficiently. 

Keys to Successful Cloud Adaptation 

What factors contribute to a company's successful adaptation to cloud-based solutions, while staying agile and competitive? 

To successfully transition to cloud-based solutions, organisations should start with quick wins, gradually building the platform and involving their current technology teams in the process. Focus on use cases that can deliver impacts within a few months of the deployment of a new data platform instead of waiting for years until everything is in place. Upskilling existing talent is essential to ensure that the current resources align with the target infrastructure. In order to solve real business problems, analytics teams need to work closely with business experts who understand businesses inside and out. This ensures that efforts are put in the right direction with the focus of solving real business issues by incorporating business inputs at the right time and setting the right priorities. 

Entry-Level Roles for Non-Technical Individuals 

How can tech companies help non-technical individuals kickstart their careers in the technology industry, and what entry-level roles function as stepping stones toward technical positions? 

Transitioning into a technical field is entirely feasible, even for individuals without a technical background. The key lies in leveraging transferable skills such as problem-solving, effective communication, and knowledge sharing. Identifying and recognising these skill sets, and strengths is crucial. 

To embark on this journey, it is essential to proactively develop technical expertise. Numerous online platforms offer opportunities to learn technical skills independently. Engaging in such learning endeavours and opting for relevant certifications will not only enhance your proficiency but also boost your confidence thus making you more appealing to future hiring managers. 

Demonstrating commitment to transitioning into a technical role is vital. Building a strong network can significantly aid in this process. Utilise platforms like LinkedIn for professional connections and explore internal networking within organisations. Engaging in conversations with managers can help showcase your interests and strengths, allowing you to create meaningful relationships within the industry. Additionally, being active in external communities can widen your network and expose you to new opportunities. 

Creating a Welcoming Environment 

How can technology companies create a welcoming environment for young people entering the tech workforce? 

Tech companies should invest in the hiring of young professionals. To attract and retain entry-level tech talent they should be able to offer initial training in both technical and soft skills. Leaders need to communicate the purpose behind the work, provide larger picture and vision behind projects, and embrace a flexible, less hierarchical approach. Prioritize work-life balance and remote working and develop a culture which values technology to appeal to young professionals, promoting a diverse and inclusive environment where young talent will feel valued and motivated to contribute. 

Promoting Diversity and Inclusivity 

Lastly, how can leaders in tech companies promote a culture of diversity and inclusivity that values and celebrates employees' diverse backgrounds, and experiences, and fosters a sense of belonging? 

Leaders should ensure an unbiased recruitment process, celebrate diversity, and support work-life balance. Collecting regular feedback in the form of surveys and addressing issues highlighted in the response is extremely critical. It is important to educate both leaders and employees on different unconscious biases so that these biases can be recognized and challenged. Additionally, acknowledging cultural differences will create a sense of belonging and motivate employees to work for an inclusive organization. Sometimes small actions like wishing employees on different cultural festivals/holidays can bring about a huge impact in creating an inclusive working environment. 

This blog post highlights the experiences and insights of an analytics expert by spotlighting the challenges and opportunities in the technology industry. By promoting diversity, inclusivity, and staying adaptable to emerging trends, tech companies can create an environment where young professionals and individuals looking to transition into the technical world can thrive and contribute to the ever-evolving world of cloud-based technology.  

If you are interested in being part of our Thortful Minds DEIB community or want to know more about Diverse & inclusive hiring strategies, please reach out to Francesca via:

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fpo@thor-companies.com

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