Thinking about leaving your government job or another non-tech career for something with more room to grow? You're not alone—more people than ever are exploring how to get into IT with no experience. The good news: You don’t need a tech background, a four-year degree, or even previous experience to start. There are plenty of entry level IT jobs no experience required, and with the right approach, you can step into a future-proof industry.
Why IT Is the Best Career Move You Can Make Right Now
The tech sector is booming—and unlike many fields, IT welcomes career changers. There are currently over 678,000 open computing jobs in the U.S., but less than 90,000 computer science graduates to fill them.* That demand means IT offers strong salaries, flexible schedules, and real advancement opportunities. Plus, the pandemic accelerated digital transformation, so industries like healthcare, finance, and government now need more tech talent than ever. Whether you want stability, better pay, or a fresh challenge, IT is a smart move.
*Bureau of Labor Statistics, CompTIA 2024 Workforce Report
Common Benefits in IT Roles:
- Median annual wage for computer and IT occupations: $104,420 (BLS, 2023)
- Over 30% growth projected for information security roles through 2033
- Varied work environments: remote, hybrid, and in-person options
High Demand, Low Barrier to Entry
It’s never been easier to get started in IT! With such a significant labor shortage, hiring managers are open to candidates from all backgrounds, especially those who’ve developed strong problem-solving or analytical skills in previous careers. Many entry-level positions require only foundational certifications, not a degree. This creates a real opportunity for anyone willing to learn.
Real Career Growth and Stability
IT roles aren’t just about sitting behind a computer, they’re about solving real-world problems and making an impact. The field offers a clear ladder from entry level to senior positions, with broad specialties like cybersecurity, networking, and support. Employers frequently promote from within and invest in professional development. That means once you break in, your potential for salary and responsibility grows rapidly.
You Don’t Need a Degree to Start a Career in IT
Unlike many industries, technology is skills-first. Most employers care more about what you can do, not where you went to school. Many successful IT professionals started out in retail, the military, government, or teaching, or even had no degree at all. What matters most is that you have the right certifications, hands-on experience, and a willingness to learn.
What Employers Actually Look For in Entry-Level IT Candidates
Foundational IT knowledge (networking, troubleshooting, hardware/software basics)
Strong problem-solving skills
Communication and teamwork
Attention to detail
Industry certifications (CompTIA Security+, Azure Fundamentals, etc.)
Customer service background (valued for support and help desk roles)
Willingness to learn and adapt
Professionalism and reliability
How to Break Into IT With No Experience
Getting started may feel overwhelming, but your soft skills and experience from non-tech roles are often more transferable than you think. The essential first step: gain relevant, hands-on experience. You can do this through labs, bootcamps, or certifications. If you want a detailed roadmap, check out our guide on how to get into IT with no experience.
Best Entry-Level IT Jobs You Can Get With No Experience
Not sure where to start? You’ll find roles like Help Desk Analyst, IT Support Specialist, and Network Technician are designed for people making a switch. These jobs let you build your skills and open up future pathways in cybersecurity, cloud, and more.
How to Transition Into IT From a Non-Tech Career
Identify your transferable skills: Communication, project management, and problem-solving from government jobs are extremely valuable in IT.
Choose your path: Explore areas like cybersecurity, help desk, or cloud support, and see which matches your interests and background.
Upskill with hands-on training: Get relevant, job-focused skills. Preferably through an IT bootcamp or program that teaches what employers want.
Earn industry certifications: Credentials like CompTIA Security+ and Azure Fundamentals are respected by hiring managers.
Start applying: Target entry-level IT jobs (no experience required). Highlight your training and your unique background on your resume.
Network: Connect with IT professionals, attend career fairs, or join online IT communities.
Start your new career: With the right preparation, you can land your first IT role months—not years—after starting your journey.
How to Transition Into IT From a Non-Tech Career
At Centriq, we specialize in helping career changers just like you get real, hands-on IT training, fast. Our Cybersecurity Specialist Program can get you job-ready in as little as four months, without unnecessary gen-ed classes or prerequisites. You’ll work with instructors who know the industry and connect with a network of employers who are looking for talent now. Ready to start? Contact us today or explore upcoming classes to see how quickly you can make the transition.