[Learner’s Story] Igniting Tech Careers with Passion and Learning: Finding a New Start in the Technology Industry

Is there a formula for a successful career? While many of us may not have an absolute answer, the journey invariably involves “LEARNING”, which aligns perfectly with the Growth Mindset valued in this era. Nat Chan and Victor Yeung, both alumni council members at Generation Hong Kong, completed the Junior Data Engineer and Front-End Web Developer programmes over a year ago respectively. Today, Nat provides data engineering solutions for clients at a digital technology consultancy, while Victor handles cloud and website development for a local catering group. During a two-hour conversation, they shared updates on their work, the latest AI tools they’ve discovered, and the certifications they plan to pursue next enthusiastically. From their stories, one truth stands out: The Mindset Determines The Altitude.

 

Passion Can Spark Interest, but Learning Keeps You Moving Forward

Nat stumbled into the F&B industry during her studies and spent ten years in kitchens: “Fine dining is a fast-paced industry. Sometimes you’re juggling multiple tasks at once—there’s barely time to think about life. Twelve-hour shifts are normal.” Victor, who studied Supply Chain Management, admitted that his early career lacked direction and was easily influenced by friends: “Back then, I had no idea what I wanted. I simply followed what friends said were good. I’ve worked in customer service, finance, bank front desk, all sorts of things…until he encouraged me to get into the IT industry. That’s when I finally shattered my stereotypes about this field!.”

Although their initial career paths differed greatly, both felt stuck and faced a career bottleneck. Nat continued, “I worked for big and small F&B groups to the point that I could handle any new recipe confidently. But the job was so repetitive that I saw the next 5–10 years would look the same. So I decided it was time to switch to something new—a field where I could keep learning.” At that time, she had no specific career transition plan. Her turning point came when she noticed how big data influenced U.S. elections, sparking curiosity about data analytics. With limited free time, she learned basic concepts through social media. Victor faced a situation similar to the one that prompted his career change: He grew weary of his overly formulaic work-life balance. As he explained, ”Once I figured out how to hit targets, everything felt repetitive. After getting used to it, I lost all motivation. I even felt that this ‘chase-the-target’ mode was not truly me. Once I recognized that disconnection, the drive to make a change finally took hold.”

An Unseen Future Brings Hope; A Visible Future Can Be Daunting

Despite their courage to make a drastic career pivot, both initially lacked confidence about entering the technology sector with no relevant background. When asked why they chose technology over other industries, they revealed that beyond being attracted to the industry’s strong future prospects, it was the rapidly evolving nature of the field itself that compelled them to keep learning and embrace uncertainty.

Nat noted, “This industry is evolving; skills learned today might be obsolete tomorrow. I could have continued making desserts for many years relying on my existing expertise, but in tech, if you stop learning, you’re out. The very nature of this industry already motivates me to keep improving.”

Both initially adopted a “Learning as we go” approach until they enrolled in Generation’s programme. However, transitioning from work life back to full-time classroom learning after years away was a significant hurdle. “Back then I had reached a decent position in my previous career. Giving that up to start from scratch in a new field was a huge mental burden. Fortunately, my family was incredibly supportive; they always felt that staying in dessert-making had limited prospects.” Nat recalled.

Viewing Setbacks as Momentum, Turning Difficulties into Opportunities

Generation’s Bootcamp combined technical skills, real-world projects, and soft skills training, plus resume coaching and mock interviews — everything they needed for the workplace. Most importantly, it delivered one core idea: “Change Is Always Possible.” In just three months, Nat and Victor stepped into new careers, proving that effort and persistence open endless possibilities.

When asked about their experience in the bootcamp, both said—like most graduates—that the learning curve from zero to expert was steep, especially since the technology industry requires hard skills, they described the learning process like getting hooked on  an “addictive fun game”: “It felt like playing a game—clearing one level after another. When we hit problems, we’d ‘check the guide’ by asking AI. Solving challenges gives us huge satisfaction.”

Even with the intense schedule, facing challenges like learning coding logic from scratch, their positive mindset and determination pushed them through. “The Bootcamp is at a intense pace, and that’s exactly what pushes you forward! ” Victor said that he didn’t come from a Computer Science background and that a degree isn’t the only measure of working ability—self-confidence matters way more.”The best part is the sense of achievement when I solve tough problems. Early on, I cracked a project that even senior colleagues couldn’t figure out!” Nat agreed instantly: “Exactly! I actually look forward to taking on the company’s challenging projects now, amazing!”

 

“I struggled too, but encouragement makes the journey easier”

 

Both served on the Alumni Council for Generation Hong Kong, actively organizing events, mentorship programmes, and career talks. The goal of the Alumni Council is to keep the supportive student vibe alive and help graduates move forward. Nat explained her reason for joining: “I just wanted to use my own journey to inspire others!” She hadn’t shared her career change story publicly before, but decided to try: “I struggled, just like everyone else. Having someone cheer you on makes the whole journey so much easier.” Victor feels the same, and believes his own story can give a real boost to peers who feel lost: “I joined the programme called ‘Tech Buddies’ to connect with other recent  graduates. I wouldn’t dare call myself their mentor——more like a ‘comfort buddy.’ I love how we all exchange ideas; it’s a peer support vibe I’m really into.”

They first joined simply to give back to Generation Hong Kong, but ended up benefiting themselves too: “During the course, I benefited from many resources. I wanted to help others who are struggling. But hearing everyone’s stories also motivates me to keep pushing,” Victor said. Nat agreed on the power of mutual exchange:  “Progress resulted from our exchanging ideas. If I take the first step to share, others might gain something. Why not?”

Nat and Victor show us there’s no single career map. Tech is just one path, but the first step to changing careers is openness to learn and embrace challenges. The unknown future can become your greatest hope.