Quick Background

I hold a Bachelor’s degree in Business with a focus on Property and have spent roughly a decade in the real estate sector. Later, I pursued a postgraduate degree in Data Science, which led me to my current role as a Data Engineer. For more insight, you can explore my journey in "How I Landed a Data Engineering Job with No IT Background."

The Job Itself

Both data engineering and data science roles enjoy high levels of job satisfaction. These positions are pivotal for businesses, enabling them to generate revenue, save costs, and make informed choices.

For me, each day at work is something I eagerly anticipate. It transcends mere employment; my work holds significance and impacts companies positively. The challenges I face are invigorating, as I collaborate with talented individuals to tackle complex problems and learn from them.

On the technical side, I strive to learn at least one new aspect with every project I undertake. This could involve:

• Writing more efficient code
• Utilizing different tools
• Exploring alternative methods for building solutions

I face challenges not only technically but also in areas such as:

• Formulating the right questions to gather user requirements and identify business challenges
• Presenting my solutions to stakeholders
• Managing client expectations in a consulting context

For further reading, check out my article, "The One Skill That Data Engineers Must Have (Often Overlooked)."

The Industry

One of the most exciting aspects of a career in data is the versatility it offers across various sectors. Much like Accounting, HR, and Marketing, businesses in every industry require support from these functions.

During my time in an IT consulting firm, I had the opportunity to develop solutions and analyze data for a variety of sectors, including agriculture, waste management, and non-profit organizations. Currently, I’m part of an Oil & Energy multinational corporation, where the nature of my work and the data I handle differ significantly. It’s fulfilling to contribute to environmental sustainability in my current role.

The Financial Aspect

Photo by Kuncheek

The financial rewards in data and technology fields tend to surpass those in non-STEM careers. My previous role in rental and building management came with a significant pay gap compared to tech. Additionally, I found that job satisfaction was lacking, and I had little desire to advance further.

In the tech and data sectors, earning over AUD 100k doesn’t necessitate a managerial position. Not everyone aspires to climb the corporate ladder. At various life stages, individuals often seek stable and well-paying jobs without the pressures of management.

While working in real estate, my earnings were modest, restricting my options for savings and investments, such as returning to university or starting a business. If you find yourself unhappy, at least a good salary can ease some burdens.

Future-Proofing Your Career

The beauty of a role in data is the freedom to innovate, provided you possess the curiosity and determination to learn continuously.

If you have coding skills, the possibilities are limitless. Even if the demand for data professionals wanes or the field loses its allure, transitioning to related professions, such as Machine Learning Engineer, Solution Architect, Data Scientist, or Software Developer, remains feasible.

Pivoting from a business background in real estate to data science and engineering was a significant challenge for me! However, I don’t foresee ever growing bored with my work (at least for now), given the constant evolution of technology. Each time I master a tool or concept, new ones emerge that beckon my attention.

Conclusion

Every company faces challenges requiring innovative solutions, ensuring that the work remains engaging as long as you choose to make it so.

Thank you for reading!