Non-tech Industries That Hire or Need Tech Talent

If you are a tech professional looking for a new job, you might limit your options by focusing only on tech companies. Did you know that non-tech sectors such as banking, healthcare, retail, and manufacturing also hire tech talent in large numbers?

As more people transition into tech, finding jobs in core tech companies becomes increasingly difficult. To broaden the available opportunities, techies must look beyond tech to enter the job market. Tech life can still be exciting outside the Silicon Valleys of the world.

According to a report by TeamLease Services, non-tech sectors are expected to hire over 1 million tech professionals by 2027-28, growing at a compound annual growth rate of 18%. This is driven by the digital transformation and automation of various business processes and functions in these sectors.

Why you should consider tech jobs in non-tech industries

1. The tech industry’s growth is not limited to the tech sector itself. Non-tech sectors are also hiring more and more tech professionals. This trend is expected to continue in the coming years.

2. There is a report supporting the fact that non-tech industries offer many benefits for tech professionals, such as better pay, career growth, work-life balance, and exposure to different domains and challenges. For example, tech professionals can work on projects such as data analytics, software development, cloud computing, cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, etc., in non-tech industries.

3. Aside from the ongoing layoffs, there’s stiff competition to get into tech companies.

4. Many tech talents searching for employment do not have non-tech industries at the top of their minds, which gives you, an advantage.

To optimise this advantage, I have compiled a list of non-tech industries that need tech talent.

Non-tech industries that hire tech talent

This list aims to help in your breaking into tech journey.

1. Healthcare:

The healthcare industry is undergoing digital innovation at an unprecedented scale, with virtual reality, 3D printing, and artificial intelligence (AI) all being key areas of innovation. Tech professionals in this industry can help develop and manage digital platforms, tools, and solutions that improve patient care, diagnosis, treatment, and research.

Some of the tech roles in this industry include health informatics specialist, medical software engineer, data analyst, AI developer, and VR/AR designer.

2. Finance:

Even as traditional as the finance industry used to be, there was always an in-house tech team in most companies. With the current technological advancements, the industry is leveraging technology to enhance customer experience, optimize operations, reduce costs, and comply with regulations. Tech talents in this industry can help develop and manage fintech solutions, such as mobile banking, online payments, blockchain, robo-advisors, and cybersecurity.

Tech roles in this industry are financial data analyst, software developer, blockchain engineer, cybersecurity analyst, and UX/UI designer.

3. Retail:

In the age of e-commerce and digital marketing, the retail industry increasingly relies on technology. Positions like e-commerce specialists, digital marketing analysts, and data scientists are in demand. Tech professionals in retail are responsible for optimizing online shopping experiences, leveraging data-driven insights to drive marketing campaigns, and implementing innovative technologies for inventory management and supply chain optimization.

Skills such as website development, data analytics, and proficiency in digital marketing tools are highly valued.

4. Manufacturing:

While traditionally considered a non-tech industry, manufacturing has embraced technology to streamline processes and enhance productivity. Roles like automation engineers, robotics technicians, and supply chain data analysts have become vital. Tech professionals in manufacturing focus on implementing automation technologies, optimizing production lines, and leveraging data analytics for process improvement.

Proficiency in automation technologies, programming, and data analysis are valuable skills in this sector.

5. Education:

Technology has revolutionized the education sector, creating opportunities for tech professionals, especially in the wake of the pandemic. Tech professionals in this industry can help develop and manage ed-tech solutions, such as online courses, learning management systems, gamification, adaptive learning, and analytics.

Some of the tech roles in this industry include instructional designer, web developer, software engineer, data analyst, and educational game developer.

6. Media and Entertainment:

In today’s digital age, technology has become an integral part of the entertainment and media industry, shaping how we enjoy and engage with our favorite content. Behind the scenes, tech professionals play a vital role in revolutionizing the way we experience entertainment. Think about streaming services like Netflix or immersive virtual reality experiences that transport us to new worlds.

Tech professionals in the industry take on various roles such as software developers, data analysts, UX designers, content distribution specialists, VR and AR developers, cybersecurity experts, cloud infrastructure specialists, content recommendation engineers, and social media/digital marketing specialists.

Strategies for getting a job in a non-tech industry

1. Research and understand the target industries:

• Gain insights into the industry’s landscape and emerging trends within it.

• Identify the specific tech roles and skills that are in demand.

2. Update your resume and portfolio to highlight your relevant skills and achievements for the non-tech sector you are targeting.

3. Upskill through online courses or certifications:

• Take advantage of online learning platforms to acquire relevant technical knowledge

4. Leverage transferable skills from your background:

• Identify and highlight the skills from your previous experience that apply to the role.

• Showcase how your unique background can bring a fresh perspective and add value to the organisation.

4. Network with professionals in non-tech industries:

• Attend industry events, join online communities, and engage in networking opportunities.

• Ask for referrals or recommendations.

By diversifying your job search to non-tech sectors, you can increase your chances of finding a rewarding and fulfilling tech career.

To inspire your journey, there are data analysts at one of Nigeria’s foremost music record label, Mavin Records. 

If the music industry needs the services of data analysts, surely there are more roles techies can fill in any non-tech industry of your interest.