Here's how you can transition from a non-technical background to a career in technological innovation.

Lean into being a lifelong learner with an insatiable appetite for knowledge. The innovation realm is fast-moving, so commit yourself to ongoing education through online courses, books, industry meet-ups and more. Learn core tech and innovation methodologies. Study programming languages and tools. Stay perpetually curious!

My educational background was in a Humanities based education (English and History) and Law before I embarked on a career with focus on legal tech innovation. I am a strong advocate for inter disciplinary learning when it comes to advancing innovation. Looking at innovation from a less technological background gives you a deeper insight into the “people” part of the triad of “people-process-technology” analysis for innovation. A Humanities based education has enabled me to put curiosity itself about what people are really seeking from innovation and the results are not always linear or scientific. What they are mainly searching for in context is an ability to be better at what makes them “tick” and gives them fulfillment in work and life.

If you have a bachelor's degree in science (biology, chemistry, physics, etc.) study and take the patent bar. Passing the bar will open up different pathways to get into technological innovation, including paid legal study programs.

Pour passer d'une formation non technique à une carrière dans l'innovation technologique : 1. Soyez curieux et persévérant, car cela prend du temps 2. Maîtrisez les fondamentaux (software, hardware, design, marketing, logiques marchandes) 3. Valorisez vos compétences non techniques (pensée critique, communication, compréhension des comportements humains, etc.)

On top of book learning, get out there and start connecting with people who are walking the innovation career path you seek. Smart networking both online and in-person at events helps you understand the current landscape while opening doors to new opportunities.

Having a non-technical background in an of itself can be a strength. Not only because of the other skill sets that you can offer like project management, business and communication, but because of the fact that you come from the perspective of the learner. You come from the perspective of someone who is not as comfortable or familiar with technology and has embraced it and seen benefits. With this view point you can foresee any issues with the adoption of technology you’re working with. This can also help you influence someone who may be hesitant to take a technological solution to a problem and have them see the value by simplifying the concepts and then showing them how things work well from a non- tech perspective.

Fazer uma transição de carreira é um movimento complexo e requer apoio da sua rede profissional. Encontrar profissionais que já o fizeram pode ser uma boa forma de evitar erros neste processo. Não há vergonha em pedir ajuda, seja transparente e claro ao dizer o que pretende com este movimento.

You will need strategic upskilling and networking. Start by identifying the specific technologies or areas within innovation that interest you. Enrol in relevant courses—online platforms like Coursera or Udemy offer comprehensive programmes to build foundational knowledge. Gain practical experience through internships, volunteering in tech projects, or contributing to open-source platforms. Network extensively by attending tech meetups, seminars, and conferences to connect with industry professionals and gain insights. Build a portfolio showcasing your projects and skills. Highlight your unique perspective and transferrable skills from your non-technical background that can add value in technological innovation roles.

O cenário profissional atual está em constante mudança, impulsionado pela rápida evolução da tecnologia. Cada vez mais, as empresas buscam profissionais inovadores e com habilidades adaptáveis para impulsionar o crescimento e a disrupção em seus setores. Se você possui uma formação não técnica e busca fazer a transição para uma carreira promissora em inovação tecnológica, saiba que existem diversas oportunidades e caminhos a serem explorados.

Leverage technology to solve a problem in your core (non technical) area. This will propel your curiosity to learn, listen and love all things about tech. Make way for the new!