Aleksandr Golikov, head of the interface development department at Mostransproekt, has shared his remarkable journey into the world of IT, emphasizing the importance of adaptability and continuous learning. Initially, Golikov envisioned a career as an engineer in the construction industry, following in the footsteps of his parents who both worked in the field. He graduated from the Moscow State University of Civil Engineering (MGSU) and began his career as a senior engineer, where he created technical drawings and managed gas supply for entire microdistricts.
However, life took an unexpected turn when his company was absorbed by a larger firm, leading to significant layoffs, including his own. Facing challenges in finding a new job, Golikov decided to pivot his career path. He recalled his passion for dogs, which had led him to work as a dog handler for three years, offering grooming and training services. This experience not only provided him with income but also honed his communication skills, as he interacted with numerous clients.
Realizing that his previous profession might not sustain him long-term, Golikov turned his attention to programming. A friend from college, who had become a backend developer, encouraged him to learn Java. Over eight months, he dedicated himself to studying the language, gradually building his understanding of programming concepts through practical tasks.
Feeling equipped to enter the job market, Golikov crafted his resume to apply for junior positions, focusing on roles as a QA engineer and Junior Java Developer. Despite sending out numerous applications, he faced a barrage of rejections and silence from potential employers. His determination, however, did not waver.
Eventually, Golikov landed a month-long internship in testing, where he immersed himself in the theory of testing and automation tools. His hard work paid off when he was hired as an automation testing engineer. This role marked his official entry into the IT industry.
His journey continued as he transitioned to a junior frontend developer position at Yandex Market, where he contributed to the development of various web applications. Currently, Golikov is involved in a significant project called "Learn about Housing and Communal Services," aimed at assessing transport accessibility for the public. This initiative reflects his commitment to making a meaningful impact on society.
During his career, he encountered various challenges, including the need to adapt to different roles and responsibilities. Golikov's experiences have taught him the value of resilience and the importance of embracing change. He noted that his future leader at Mostransproekt had a similar background, having worked as a film expert before transitioning to IT. This shared experience fostered a strong connection and understanding between them.
In a recent interview, Anzhella Tatarskaya, a director at Softline, discussed the launch of the "IT is Your Place of Work" project, which aims to help individuals from diverse professional backgrounds transition into the IT sector. The initiative recognizes that many sales managers possess valuable negotiation skills but often lack specific IT knowledge. By providing training and resources, the project seeks to empower these individuals to leverage their strengths in the tech industry.
The program consists of 11 modules covering essential topics such as information security, artificial intelligence, and cloud technologies. Participants benefit from access to Softline's expertise and practical case studies, ensuring they gain relevant skills for the evolving job market.
Softline's approach emphasizes that entering the IT field is not limited to those with technical backgrounds. The program is designed to accommodate working professionals, with evening lectures held online twice a week, allowing participants to balance their education with their current jobs.
The first cohort of the program received an overwhelming response, with over 550 applications from across Russia. A selection process invited 100 candidates for training, ultimately leading to 50 participants showcasing their skills in a final case defense. This success underscores the demand for such initiatives aimed at bridging the gap between traditional professions and the tech industry.
As Golikov reflects on his journey, he encourages others considering a career change to embrace the opportunity. He emphasizes that success in IT is achievable for anyone willing to learn and adapt. His story serves as an inspiring testament to the possibilities that await those who dare to pursue their passions.
In conclusion, the narratives of both Aleksandr Golikov and the "IT is Your Place of Work" project highlight the dynamic nature of the IT industry and the potential for individuals from various backgrounds to thrive within it. As technology continues to evolve, the need for diverse talent will only grow, making initiatives like these crucial for fostering innovation and progress.
