[Learner’s Story] From Trading Cards to Data Charts: Jason’s Career Switch Journey

“Running a trading card business taught me the importance of data analysis, even before I realized it,” says 24-year-old Jason Siu with a smile, recalling his early entrepreneurial days. “Back then, I had to forecast market trends and adjust pricing strategies. I didn’t have the tools, but I was already thinking in data. I just relied on instinct.”

After graduating from secondary school, Jason held a stable job but longed to gain future-proof skills. He became increasingly drawn to data analysis and artificial intelligence (AI), yet doubted whether he could enter the industry without a degree or tech background. “It felt out of reach,” he shares.

That changed when Jason discovered Generation Hong Kong’s Junior Data Engineer programme. “What stood out to me was that there were no academic requirements, and the curriculum was highly practical. It covered Python, SQL, Power BI, and even AI tools. As long as you are willing to learn, you can make the transition.” With that, Jason decided to take a bold step forward.

From Self-Doubt to Confidence

In the early stages of the programme, Jason often felt discouraged. “When I first started writing Python, I kept running into errors. One time I spent the entire day debugging without success. It was disheartening,” he recalls. But thanks to patient guidance from instructors and support from peers, he learned how to break down problems and tackle them step by step.

One of Jason’s most rewarding moments came during a group project. He and his teammates worked with a public dataset, performing data cleaning, building models, and creating a final visualisation report using Power BI. “That was the first time I felt I could actually do the work of a data analyst,” he says proudly.

The project also revealed the value of Behavioural Skills and Mindsets (BSM) training, which helped him become a better collaborator and communicator. These soft skills, often overlooked in traditional education, became a key strength for Jason as he worked under pressure and in a team setting.

Jason also found a particular passion for Power BI. “If I had known how to use Power BI back when I was running the card business, I could have analysed trends more efficiently and precisely,” he says. “This programme didn’t just teach technical tools. It trained my thinking and problem-solving approach.”

Redefining Possibilities

After completing the Junior Data Engineer programme, Jason walked away with more than just skills. He gained belief in himself. He began participating in hackathons, applying what he had learned to real business problems and sharpening his professional edge. Where he once saw academic background as a limitation, he now sees a path forward. “As long as you are willing to learn, you can overcome your background and redefine your future.”

Today, Jason is working toward becoming a data analyst who can support business strategy and operations through insights. More importantly, he hopes his story can inspire others. “Don’t be afraid to try something new. Skills can be learned, but opportunities don’t wait. Once you take the first step, you are already halfway there.”

Jason’s journey reflects what Generation stands for breaking limitations and redefining talent. With courage and support, anyone can discover their potential.

👉 Learn more about our Junior Data Engineer Programme.