Transitioning from a $100k+ IT Career to Accounting
As the title suggests, I’m considering a significant career change: moving away from my current IT role, where I earn over 100k, and pursuing a career in Accounting.
At 28, I’m currently studying for my bachelor’s degree online, with plans to obtain my master’s immediately afterward to become CPA eligible and transition into the Accounting field.
Here are a few reasons motivating my decision:
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Strong Work Ethic: I pride myself on my work ethic and the solid reputation I build wherever I go. In just three years in IT, I’ve progressed from earning 75k to over 100k without any prior experience, thanks to my dedication and quick learning skills.
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Natural Aptitude for Accounting: While I’ve managed to succeed in IT, it never came easily to me. My strengths lie in mathematics, particularly in algebra, which I genuinely enjoy. I’ve found that Accounting concepts are coming to me much more naturally, making it an exciting field to explore.
I believe that if I’m going to commit to a career for the next 30 years, it should be in a field where I can truly excel and feel fulfilled. By applying my strong work ethic to an area I’m naturally inclined toward, I’m confident I can achieve greater success.
Although I acknowledge that transitioning will involve a significant initial pay cut (around 30-40k), I’m optimistic that my skills and dedication will enable me to advance quickly within the industry.
- Long-Term Goals: My ultimate ambition is to gain a few years of experience before starting my own accounting firm. The earning potential in IT is appealing, but the idea of owning a firm and potentially making upwards of half a million is even more enticing (or so I’ve read). Moreover, being fluent in Spanish gives me a unique opportunity to target the largely Hispanic demographic in Texas.
I’m eager for any insights or experiences from those who have undergone a similar transition. If you’ve started your own firm, your advice would be invaluable!
Thank you for your thoughts!
2 Responses
It’s great to see you taking a proactive approach to your career and following your passions! Transitioning from IT to Accounting, especially when you feel more aligned with your natural strengths, can be a rewarding move. Here are a few thoughts and tips based on your post:
Skill Alignment: It’s fantastic that you recognize your strengths and are pursuing a field that resonates with you more naturally. Accounting can definitely benefit from strong mathematical skills, and your prior experience in IT might give you a unique edge in understanding financial software and technology.
Networking: As you transition, start building relationships in the Accounting field. Attend local networking events, join professional organizations (like the AICPA or your state’s CPA society), and connect with other accounting majors or professionals on platforms like LinkedIn. This can help you build a support system and possibly lead to job opportunities.
Experience and Specialization: Since your ultimate goal is to start your own firm, gaining experience in various accounting roles can be beneficial. Consider exploring different specialties within accounting—tax, Audit, consulting, etc.—to see where your interests really lie. This can also help you understand the needs of your future clients.
Communication Skills: Being bilingual is a significant advantage, especially in diverse areas like Texas. Leverage that skill not just for attracting clients but also for enhancing your communication with them. Building trust and rapport with your clients can be just as crucial as your technical skills in accounting.
Financial Planning for the Transition: You mentioned a pay cut, which is realistic. Make sure you have a solid financial plan in place to manage this transition. Budgeting for the initial years and having some savings can alleviate stress as you focus on getting established in your new career.
Long-Term Vision: It’s good that you have a clear long-term goal of owning your firm. Keep that vision in mind as you progress through your education and early career. Consider taking courses or seeking mentorship on running a business, as that knowledge will be invaluable when you decide to start your firm.
Seek Mentorship: Finding a mentor in the accounting field, particularly someone who has experience running their own firm, can provide you with invaluable insights and guidance as you navigate this transition.
Your determination and work ethic are strong assets, and if you keep that drive while nurturing your talents in accounting, you could very well achieve the success you’re aiming for. Best of luck with your studies and the transition—exciting times ahead!
It’s inspiring to see you take such a bold step toward a career that resonates more with your interests and strengths! Transitioning from a successful IT career to Accounting, especially with your existing skills in mathematics and work ethic, can certainly lead to a fulfilling future.
I echo your sentiment about finding a career that aligns with one’s passions—they are key to long-term satisfaction and success. The Accounting field, particularly with advancements in technology such as AI and cloud computing, is evolving rapidly. Your IT background could provide a unique perspective and advantage, as many firms are looking for individuals who can bridge the gap between technology and traditional Accounting practices.
Starting your own firm is an admirable goal and one that is attainable with the right foundation. As you work towards your CPA and gain experience, consider also building a professional network through joining local accounting associations or groups. Engaging with mentors and peers in the field can offer valuable insights and open doors to opportunities that may not be immediately visible.
Lastly, your ability to speak Spanish is a tremendous asset. As you mentioned, targeting underserved demographics can set you apart in a competitive market. Consider also how you could incorporate technology solutions to make your firm more accessible to clients, perhaps through bilingual digital resources or tools.
Wishing you all the best on this exciting journey! I’m looking forward to hearing about your progress and future successes!