Alumni Spotlight: Tina Banze's Shift to IT Project Management

Tina Banze, 35 years old and previously working in the social and educational sector, made a bold decision to completely change her career path – into the world of IT project management. What prompted her? The IT Project Management bootcamp at neue fische in IT project management. In just nine months, she successfully transitioned into the IT department of her company, taking her career in an entirely new direction. In this interview, she shares her experiences, the learning process, and the challenges of moving into the IT field.

A Career Shift: From Social Work to IT

Tina spent years in the educational sector, working as a team leader for refugee and homeless shelters. But after her last school year, her contract ended, and she decided to use this time to explore a new career path. The IT project management bootcamp at neue fische provided her with the opportunity to make a fresh start in a completely new industry. But why IT project management? 🤔

"I initially wanted to learn programming," Tina says. However, a comment from her brother made her think: "What do you want in IT? Project management would suit you better with your communication skills." This thought stuck with her, and after some research, she realized that IT project management might indeed be the perfect fit for her abilities and interests.

neue fische convinced her with its clear concept and strong reputation. "I had the feeling that the bootcamp was legitimate and offered real opportunities," she explains. In fact, neue fische was one of the few places offering specialized training in agile IT project management – exactly what she was looking for.

Starting the Bootcamp: An Intense but Rewarding Experience

The bootcamp, as Tina describes it, was intense and challenging – just as the term "bootcamp" suggests. In just four weeks, she learned not only the basics of IT project management methodologies but also how to apply them in practical scenarios. "It was a lot of input in a short time, and there was always something to do – even after class," she recalls. The hands-on project work, in particular, helped her put what she learned into practice immediately.

Tina emphasizes that the bootcamp was designed to prepare participants for their future roles as IT project managers. The close collaboration with her instructors and mentors, as well as the capstone project, where participants work on real-world projects, gave her the confidence she needed to transition into her new career.

Bridging the Gap: Tina’s Role as an IT Project Manager

After completing the bootcamp, Tina was able to transition into the IT department of her company. As an IT project manager, her tasks now involve assessing the needs of various departments and optimizing processes in a company with over 2,200 employees. "My role is to act as a bridge between the IT department and the other departments, especially the social workers," Tina explains.

She finds that her previous experience in social work is a valuable asset in her new role. "It’s often about communication and understanding the needs of different stakeholders," she says. She has to balance multiple perspectives and find solutions that work for everyone involved. "It’s important that I don’t push my own agenda but instead find the best solution for everyone."

Tools and Methods from the Bootcamp in Everyday Work

The bootcamp not only provided Tina with the knowledge she needed but also equipped her with practical tools that she now uses in her job. One of these tools is Miro, which she used extensively during the bootcamp. "At first, it was a bit overwhelming to navigate such a large digital canvas, but now it’s an indispensable tool," she says.

Agile methods like Scrum and Kanban, which she learned during the bootcamp, have also become part of her daily work. These approaches help her prioritize and organize projects more efficiently. "Even though I’m not working directly with developers, many of the methods from the bootcamp apply to my projects," Tina explains.

The Importance of Networking and Collaboration

Another major benefit of the bootcamp was the network Tina built. "The collaboration within the team and the exchange with other participants were incredibly valuable," she says. The network she built during the bootcamp continues to support her even after its completion, providing her with opportunities and connections for the future.

"It’s reassuring to know you’re not alone," Tina says. "The network helps not only during the bootcamp but also afterward, whether it’s for job hunting or professional advice." neue fische not only offers a solid education but also a strong professional network that provides long-term benefits for its participants. ⭐️

Conclusion: A Leap into the Unknown with Great Reward

Tina’s shift from education to IT project management was a bold move, but it has paid off. The bootcamp at neue fische has not only advanced her professionally but also personally. "It showed me that it’s never too late to learn something new and to grow," she says. Her advice to future participants of an IT project management training? "Be prepared to work hard and step out of your comfort zone. It’s worth it!"

With her bootcamp experience and her current role as an IT project manager, Tina has proven that with the right tools and mindset, even career changers can thrive in the IT world.

Summary

Imagine becoming an IT project manager like Tina in just a few months! It may sound challenging, but this journey is about taking that bold first step toward a fulfilling and fast-paced career in tech. You’ll master key project management skills, gain practical experience, and dive into the methodologies that drive today’s agile IT projects. Whether you’re transitioning from another field or seeking to level up in your current role, this opportunity is perfect for you. It’s not just about managing projects—it’s about unlocking your potential and building a career you’re passionate about.

At neue fische, we offer hands-on training in IT project management, equipping you with the knowledge and tools to thrive in the tech world. Ready to begin your journey? Now is the time to take the leap! Your future as an IT project manager could be right around the corner. Join us and take the next step toward a rewarding career in tech!