Breaking into Tech? Career Journeys to Inspire New Graduates

Pursuing a career in IT can be daunting for college students, which is why team members in Manila from TELUS International Digital Solutions, a division of TELUS International, shared their stories and valuable insights into how to seize opportunities, explore different fields, and expand skill sets – all of which are crucial for success in the ever-evolving tech landscape.

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“Be adaptive, stay curious”

“Take risks, speak out”

“Be adaptive, stay curious”

Klyde Monoy first joined TELUS International as an Intermediate Application Support Analyst, and never imagined herself working in the IT industry. She’s now a Salesforce Administrator for the Delivery team at TELUS International Digital Solutions.

“Today I support multiple squads with their projects by taking care of any access or technical issues they encounter to ensure they are able to focus on their development and sprint goals,” Monoy explained.

Monoy attributes much of her success to TELUS International Digital Solutions’ culture of ongoing education. “Management supported my career growth, funding the different training sessions and certification courses that I really wanted to take, and even adjusting my schedule so I could attend my classes,” she recalled. “They believed in me when I was just starting out.”

For those considering a career in IT, Monoy advised, “Be adaptive, and always stay curious. The IT world is constantly evolving, so it’s very important that you roll with these changes by soaking in and applying new knowledge.”

Monoy is also excited that she has already had the opportunity to pay it forward by mentoring others. “Seeing my mentee learn and grow makes my heart happy and proud,” she said. “I’ve always shared that the future is in IT and that there are endless possibilities at our company in terms of career growth. The IT industry is so broad, so don’t be afraid that you won’t find your niche. You just have to find the right fit for you.”

Monoy presents her own career journey as proof that with determination and support, students and young professionals just starting out can thrive in the IT industry.

“Take risks, speak out”

TELUS International Digital Solutions breaks the stereotype that tech careers are only for those who study computer science and related courses. Consider Louise Donery Usman, a process improvement specialist and tester at TELUS International Digital Solutions, who initially enrolled in a broadcasting course in college. Usman later shifted to IT at Asia Pacific College and became a working student at TELUS International Digital Solutions. As she progressed in her career, she acknowledged how important the guidance of supervisors was to her along the way.

“They have a knack for knowing when and what you need help with,” she shared. And now, it’s her turn – “Helping the team grow will always be at the core of my role, but it’s heartwarming just the same to hear that I have inspired someone else just by doing my job.”

In her role, Usman continuously looks for enhancements and processes that can help both the business and the team. She analyzes opportunities and comes up with the best approach to implement them in a way that’s fair and good for everyone. On the testing side, Usman and her team explore systems assigned for evaluation, and test its functionalities, features, and bugs, which they then report to the developers for fixing.

When asked what the ‘coolest’ thing is about her job, Usman replied, “Seeing that what you do matters. You can see how a process, if implemented properly, can make the team’s everyday tasks easier. On the testing side, it’s always fun to uncover bugs that aren’t supposed to be there. Plus, having the ability to work remotely is a big bonus!”

Usman similarly credits the company’s investment in team members’ growth and development. “TELUS International Digital Solutions provides us with a variety of different opportunities to help with our career growth, such as apprenticeships, job shadowing, online courses, free access to Udemy (online professional development courses), and even reimbursed IT certifications. Our hybrid working setup allows team members to make wise use of their time, creating work-life balance, while still feeling connected to the team. We are also offered a wide range of positions that team members can explore if they’re looking to try something new,” she said.

Usman added, “There’s a reason why passion for growth is one of the company’s values. You need to have the internal drive and motivation to get things done. IT is one of the fastest-moving industries today, so you need to be resourceful. You won’t always have the answer, but knowing where to look for it will go a long way.”

For new graduates who are overwhelmed with the various fields they can explore in tech, Usman advised them to choose their first employer wisely. She said, “Even if you come into an organization as a young IT professional without knowing what you want to do, a company like TELUS International has a lot of initiatives that will help you find your way. The best thing is that you can be learning while working, so you keep advancing your career,” she said.

About today’s younger generation, Usman notes, “They are more change-ready, more inclined to take risks, and more outspoken. Using these skills the right way favorably tips the scales in terms of collaboration, innovation, and growth.”

Fittingly, TELUS International’s workplace culture is one of continuous learning. Nalakumar “Nala” RS, Vice President of TELUS International Digital Solutions, shared that the company invests in its employees by providing them with access to more than 3,000 tech courses and training programs to help them chart personalized career paths to realize their professional goals. He said, “We foster career growth by providing job-shadowing opportunities that allow individuals to learn from experienced professionals and gain valuable insights into different roles. Additionally, we recognize the importance of ongoing learning and development, which is why we offer some free time for individuals to prepare for new roles or upskill themselves in their current position. This is beyond a business strategy; it’s how we bring our values and culture to life in meaningful ways.”

For new graduates who are looking for an organization that fosters growth and offers various opportunities, Monoy and Usman’s workplace may just be the place to start. To see current career opportunities at TELUS International Digital Solutions, visit telusinternational.com/careers, or check out their LinkedIn and Facebook pages, and on job portals like Jobstreet, Indeed, and Monster.