What careers are left for me?

[ForevrLonely29]

We are in a white-collar recession, where tech jobs are affected the most. Since 2022, there have been over half-a-million layoffs in tech. In addition, there has been a 27 percent decrease in open tech roles.

I have been unemployed for over 4 months now since I lost my last role. I am struggling to figure out where to go from here.

I am on the Autistic Spectrum and have faced job instability my entire life already. Tech was one of my niches. I am a fullstack web/software developer.

I need a solid middle-class role to continue paying the bills I have and to raise a future family. I don't even own my own home yet, and I am 30 years old!

[Oliverlogan263]

Dang, that's a really tough spot you're in, my friend. Losing your job in this kind of economy can be so stressful, especially when you've got bills to pay and a future family to think about. I feel for you.

But don't worry, there are still plenty of solid career paths out there for you to explore, even if the tech world isn't panning out right now. Let's think about some options that could be a good fit for you:

Have you considered looking into careers in healthcare? With the aging population, there's always a need for skilled professionals in that field. Things like nursing, medical coding, or even medical administration could be worth looking into. The work can be really rewarding, and the job security is usually pretty solid.

Another idea could be getting into the skilled trades, like construction or HVAC work. These kinds of jobs are in high demand and can provide a steady middle-class income. Plus, you'd get to use your technical skills in a hands-on way.

If you're still interested in the tech world, maybe look into cybersecurity or IT support roles. Those fields tend to be a little more recession-proof than pure software development. Or you could consider pivoting to technical sales or project management - roles that blend tech and business.

The key is to stay open-minded and really explore all your options. Don't be afraid to try something new, even if it's outside your comfort zone. With your background and work ethic, I know you've got what it takes to succeed in all kinds of different careers.

Just remember to take care of yourself through this transition, my dude. Lean on your support system, don't be afraid to ask for help, and keep that positive attitude. You've got this!

[ForevrLonely29]

Thank you for the suggestions! I had an Advanced EMT license that was essentially revoked due to a misdemeanor unrelated to the job. This happened many years ago. I would like to just work in EMS part time in the meantime until I can find something else. Although, I would have to beg the state to grant me eligibility to regain an EMT license. It is a process full. of red tape.

[Oliverlogan263]

Whoa, good call girl! I'm glad you were able to directly address that with him and share your perspective. It's awesome that you were so in tune with your instincts on this one.

You're totally right - his insistence on needing to know your "expectations" upfront, before you've even gotten more serious, is a huge red flag. It does make it seem like he has some kind of agenda or objective in mind, rather than just genuinely wanting to build a meaningful connection.

The fact that you were able to call him out on that and express that it makes you feel like he lacks genuine interest is super mature and self-assured of you. Don't ever let a guy make you feel like you have to fit into some box or have all the answers right away.

Your feelings and boundaries are valid. If he can't respect that and have an open, two-way conversation about where things are headed, then he's probably not the right guy for you. You deserve someone who's willing to take the time to understand you, not just what they can get out of you.

I'm really proud of you for trusting your gut on this one, girl. Maintaining that self-awareness and not being afraid to speak up for yourself is so important. Keep standing your ground - you're gonna find someone who appreciates you for who you are, I just know it.

[Oliverlogan263]

Here’s my actual response:

Ah man, that's really rough about your EMT license getting revoked due to that unrelated misdemeanor. I can imagine that's created a ton of frustration and roadblocks for you. But kudos to you for still wanting to pursue that EMS work, even if it's just part-time for now.

I totally get why you'd want to go that route - it could be a good way to earn some income while you figure out your next steps. And having that medical/first responder experience under your belt is valuable, even if you end up going a different direction career-wise.

The process of trying to regain your EMT eligibility does sound like an absolute headache, with all the red tape and hoops you'd have to jump through. But I gotta give you props for even being willing to go through that. A lot of people would just say screw it and move on, but you're clearly determined to make it work.

Even if it takes some serious effort and patience to get that license back, I think it could definitely pay off in the long run. Having that hands-on EMS experience, even part-time, will make you stand out from other candidates when you're applying for those more stable, middle-class roles you're after.

And in the meantime, having that income stream, even if it's not your forever career, can help take some of the pressure off while you explore other options. Gotta keep those bills paid, you know?

I'm really rooting for you, dude. The fact that you're already thinking about your long-term goals of finding that solid, middle-class job and being able to provide for a future family - that's super admirable. You've clearly got your head on straight, even with all the curveballs life has thrown your way.

Just don't give up, man. Keep pushing forward, lean on your support system, and know that better days are ahead. You've got the drive and the resilience to make it happen. I believe in you, bro.

[Oliverlogan263]

Forget this part and don’t read it - it’s meant for someone else

[Jersey2]

It takes 6 months to a year to replace a good job like that so 4 months is not terrible. Make sure your resume is crisp and great! Then use your network. Your network is where you will likely get your next role. Also look at consulting roles with companies including small firms that do time and material consulting/contractor roles. Once you work for a company as a client you might be able to translate that into a full time role. You would have to get the client to ask or to pay (a recruiter fee to the contractor company) for you to join them. Let me know if you have questions but your 8 hour job a day is to get a job. And heads up, a lot of companies will hire in December and January/February. Get going! :D

[ForevrLonely29]

Dude, it is taking senior-level developers with 10+ years of experience longer than that right now. I am just mid-level with 4 years of experience in the industry. I feel cooked.

[Jersey2]

Dude, stay positive. You have to. Shake the tree. Network with people that liked you or knew your work to be good. Check company job boards everyday and respond as soon as you see it. See who might know you there via LinkedIn and ask for their help by seeing if they know the hiring manager or people in that department. You could also send a printed version of your resume to managers in departments that you would logically fit in even if they are not advertising for help. They would have it in hand. Same with an emailed resume at the same time so they can forward it in, perhaps even in their network. You could even start free lancing by creating websites for local companies it’s like a restaurant, bakery etc. You could also check not inly in your country but in other countries like Europe or Canada for instance.

What I am telling you can work. It is too early to be defeated. This is a good time of year to look.

[AI Opinion]

I'm truly sorry to hear about your challenges. Consider exploring roles that leverage your tech skills in other industries, such as healthcare, finance, or education, where tech is equally essential. Freelancing or remote work can provide flexibility and new opportunities. Upskilling in emerging tech fields like AI or cybersecurity might also be beneficial. Networking through online communities tailored to individuals on the Autistic Spectrum can offer support and potential job leads. Remember, your skills are valuable across various sectors, so remain open to diverse opportunities. Always focus on your strengths and what you bring to potential roles.

[TadCurious]

I sympathize with your situation. As I'm sure you know, employers like giving tech jobs to foreign nationals on H1-B visas. That's a huge slap in the face to Americans with tech education and tech job experience. I've read that it's not uncommon for these companies to require these American employees to train their foreign replacements in order to receive a severance payment. It's outrageous.

[paledreams]

There's a recession? Stock market claims there's none lol for two years almost now it's like green green aka other than red red (stock charts) supposedly.
Supposedly. Don't quote me anyone - just a vibe

Now I for one would just get back on the horse 🐴🐎

[paledreams]

In a calm and humble manner ☺️

[ForevrLonely29]

It is a tech job market recession is what they call it. White collar jobs are dwindling right now, period.

[exitseven]

I work in IT as well but I am a network engineer. Web Developer/ software engineer jobs were shipped out to India. Computer Security is a big field today. I got involved in it a little before I retired last summer. I still get plenty of emails with job openings.

[ForevrLonely29]

Cybersecurity? Aren't those roles oversaturated too?

Also, Aren't the sysadmin roles sort of declining too because everything is cloud now? I am pretty good with Linux and using the bash shell. I wouldn't say an expert by any means.

[ForevrLonely29]

... but to also add, I hope Trump brings back service-based roles into the US just like manufacturing and goods.

[exitseven]

@forevrlonely29 There are cloud based apps but companies still need systems people to maintain the infrastructure. It changes all the time.

[ForevrLonely29]

So what would your recommendation be? General IT? Getting cloud certs? I don't have a degree. I only possess 4 years of experience as a developer and an ok-ish portfolio.

[exitseven]

Maybe General IT with cybersecurity cert like Security Plus.

[ForevrLonely29]

... to add, I have worked on apps for Zoetis, Daimler, McCain Foods, Douglas Products, and Corteva. Some companies the contributions were small, others I did a lot.

[exitseven]

Experience with UNIX is a plus. When you apply for tech jobs the headhunter looks for keywords in your resume. Look at the job requirements for jobs you might be interested in and try to fill some of the gaps in your skillset while you are unemployed.

[moviedude714]

Did your career require a college degree or bachelor's degree

[ForevrLonely29]

@moviedude714 Nice to see you on here again man! Long time no see. No, my role as a web app developer did not require a degree. I was self-taught with years of focus, discipline, and dedication.

[exitseven]

@moviedude714 It really does not require a degree but I wanted to get into management someday and I went for a full blown Masters degree.

[Anonymous]

reminds me, research and statistics show that people on the autism spectrum have long had employment problems either unemployed or underemployed, the latter being, they have jobs or just work in careers that don't pay them enough to live on or just struggle to live independently.

Unfortunately I'm going through that

[ForevrLonely29]

Sadly, I am brilliant and multifaceted in so many areas. I have previous healthcare knowledge and experience, and I am also highly skilled as a web app developer. I am not cognitively impaired or mentally retarded. As I have grown older, I have matured immensely, although I still have some soft skills I need to improve on. You wouldn't know I am in the spectrum by just meeting me.

[Opinion Owner]

Yeah are you living with folks or roommates at the moment

[Opinion Owner]

It depends on the person with autism but some people with Autism are eligible for Social Security assistance from the government or just social security income is that what you're getting at the moment or no?

[Opinion Owner]

Yeah I'm worried about my future I will admit that in the sense of being able to support myself independently once my folks are gone

[ForevrLonely29]

Dude I am petrified tbh. I have a fiance and an apartment I can barely afford since I was fired back in July. I have held 25+ jobs since age 15. Sadly, the economy is such shit right now, I am dealing with a tech recession. It is making my situation worse, and I may have to default on my lease before the last 4 months of my lease contract.

[Opinion Owner]

I'm sorry to hear that and what do you do for work at the moment