How to Break into Tech Without a Technical Background

Spoiler alert: You don’t need to code to get into tech.

Yes, you read that right. If you’re someone who’s ever thought, “I’d love to work in tech, but I don’t have a technical degree or know how to code,” — this post is for you.

I broke into tech without a traditional tech background, and I’ve helped many others do the same. So if you’re feeling unsure about where to start, let me walk you through how it’s not only possible, it’s happening every day.

1. Understand What “Tech” Really Means

“Tech” doesn’t just mean developers and engineers. The tech industry is full of non-technical roles that are just as crucial:

• Scrum Masters

• Agile Delivery Leads

• Product Managers

• Business Analysts

• UX Researchers

• Project Coordinators

These roles are all about communication, collaboration, leadership, and strategy — not writing lines of code.

2. Start With Transferable Skills

Think about the skills you already use in your current job:

• Are you organized? You’re halfway to being a great delivery lead.

• Do you run meetings or solve team conflicts? That’s Scrum Master energy.

• Are you good at planning or working with stakeholders? The tech world needs that.

Most people already have transferable skills, they just don’t realize how valuable they are in a tech setting.

3. Learn Just Enough to Get Started

You don’t need a computer science degree — but you do need to learn the language of the space you want to enter.

Here’s what I recommend if you’re eyeing a role like Scrum Master or Agile Delivery Lead:

• Understand the Agile mindset

• Learn the Scrum framework

• Get familiar with tools like JIRA or Trello

• Start following Agile thought leaders (LinkedIn, YouTube, podcasts)

There are plenty of free and low-cost resources that can give you a solid foundation. (P.S. I also created a beginner-friendly PDF on how to transition into Agile — and it’s just £10.99.)

4. Get Certified (But Don’t Overdo It)

A certification like CSM (Certified ScrumMaster) or PSM I can help you stand out, but it’s not a magic ticket. What matters more is that you understand how Agile works in the real world — and how to explain that in an interview.

If you’re confused about where to start, book a free 30-minute consultation with me — I’ll walk you through it.

5. Find a Mentor or Community

Trying to break into tech alone can feel overwhelming. That’s why I created a 12-week mentorship program to support people just like you — no tech background, no jargon, just structure, support, and clear next steps.

💬 Final Thoughts

You don’t need to be technical.You just need to be intentional.

Tech is evolving, and it’s creating space for communicators, facilitators, problem-solvers, and leaders — people like you.

You belong here.And if you’re ready to make your move, I’m here to guide you every step of the way.

— Nikky Sho