👑 Week 2: Breaking into Tech Careers — Entry-Level Roles with High Growth Potential

Hello Queens,

So you’ve decided you’re ready to step into tech — but where do you start? Let’s be honest: breaking into tech can feel overwhelming, especially when you’re coming from a different industry or don’t have a traditional computer science background. But here’s the truth: there’s a place for you in tech, and plenty of high-growth roles that don’t require years of coding experience to get started.

Today, we’re breaking down entry-level tech roles that are in demand, pay well, and offer clear paths to growth.

💻 1. Web Developer / Front-End Developer

If you enjoy design, creativity, and bringing ideas to life visually — this could be your lane. You’ll work on building websites and apps that look good and function smoothly.

Why it’s great:

• Growing demand across industries

• Freelance + remote opportunities

• Strong pathway to senior developer or UX roles

Start learning:

• HTML, CSS, JavaScript

• FreeCodeCamp, Scrimba, or SheCodes

🤖 2. Data Analyst

If you love problem-solving and storytelling with numbers, data analytics is one of the best ways to get into tech.

Why it’s great:

• Data is everywhere — from healthcare to marketing

• Entry-level roles can lead to data science or AI careers

• Average U.S. salary: $65K–$85K+

Start learning:

• Excel, SQL, and Python basics

• Google Data Analytics Certificate (Coursera)

🧠 3. AI / Machine Learning Assistant Roles

You don’t have to be a “tech genius” to work with AI. Many startups and companies are hiring AI research assistants, prompt engineers, and model trainers.

Why it’s great:

• Fast-growing field with endless innovation

• Builds your foundation in AI and automation

• Opportunities to specialize later in machine learning, AI ethics, or automation strategy

Start learning:

• Intro to AI (Google, DeepLearning.AI, or Elements of AI)

• Practice prompt writing with tools like ChatGPT

🎯 4. Product Manager (Associate / Junior Roles)

If you’re organized, love strategy, and can lead a team — product management could be your superpower.

Why it’s great:

• You get to shape the direction of tech products

• Excellent salaries + leadership growth potential

• Great for people from marketing, education, or business backgrounds

Start learning:

• Learn UX fundamentals

• Take a Product Management intro course (Reforge, Product School)

🌐 5. UX/UI Designer

If you love creativity, psychology, and design, this is a beautiful blend of art and tech.

Why it’s great:

• Growing demand in startups and nonprofits

• Remote-friendly and project-based opportunities

• Bridges design, storytelling, and tech

Start learning:

• Figma, Adobe XD, Canva Pro

• Google UX Design Certificate or DesignLab

💬 My Advice: Start Where You Are

You don’t have to have it all figured out. Pick one role that excites you, explore what it takes to grow in that space, and start building small projects that strengthen your skills and confidence. Every line of code, every design, every dataset you explore — it’s all shaping your future.

But beyond learning the hard skills, remember this: tech changes fast. The real key to success is staying curious, flexible, and committed to lifelong learning.

Learn how to think critically, ask better questions, and prompt creatively — because in the age of AI, the quality of your thinking is just as important as the tools you use. Be open to experimenting with new platforms, understanding data, and collaborating with AI-savvy teammates. The more you explore, the more confident and strategic you’ll become.

And as you grow, keep your human ethics and storytelling at the center of everything you do. Technology should amplify our values, not replace them. AI is not your competitor — it’s your partner in innovation, creativity, and problem-solving.

Not every role will be your forever fit, and that’s okay. Each experience adds depth, clarity, and passion to your journey. The goal isn’t perfection — it’s progress, purpose, and growth.

✨ Queen’s Challenge of the Week

Research one of the roles above that sparks your interest.

• Find one person on LinkedIn in that field

• Read one beginner-friendly guide or watch a YouTube tutorial

• Write down what excites you most about that career

Tag me or share your progress using #TechQueensWeekly — I’d love to celebrate your first steps! 👑

Let’s talk, Queens 👇🏾Which role on this list caught your eye first—and why?

You belong here. The tech world needs your creativity, your voice, and your vision. Let’s keep learning, growing, and taking up space — together. 💪🏾

With love and purpose, 

Taylor Smith 

Founder, Tech Queens Weekly

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This post was originally published as part of Tech Queens Weekly, a newsletter for Black women exploring tech, AI, and entrepreneurship.