Redefining Our Careers: Two Women's Leap into Technology

• By Danielle Imoesiri, Lisette Buckman
• 12/04/25

According to a Deloitte report, 53% of IT professionals now come from outside the traditional tech sector, transitioning from industries such as professional services, public administration, and finance. This shift highlights a growing demand for ICT specialists who bring creativity, strategic thinking, and business acumen — showing that technology is no longer an isolated industry but a foundational part of every field.

This trend perfectly reflects our own journeys into Information Technology. Coming from backgrounds in Business and the Arts, we've experienced firsthand how non-traditional skills — like communication, problem-solving, and adaptability — can be powerful assets in tech. Our transitions have been a whirlwind but incredibly rewarding.

From Business to IT: Translating Tech into Trust (Danielle Imoesiri)

With a background in sales and marketing, I initially wondered how I'd fit into a technical field like IT. However, I quickly discovered that communication is just as important here as it is in the business world. At Oral Roberts University, our IT department supports over 7,000 students and hundreds of faculty and staff members daily. In many ways, it functions like a business, delivering services, supporting "customers," and managing expectations.

One of the most surprising realizations was how much users rely on IT professionals to translate complex systems into something they can understand and trust. My ability to communicate clearly, build relationships, and manage change helps bridge the gap between tech teams and end users. Whether it's explaining a system rollout or assisting users to understand cybersecurity protocols, my business background has enabled me to simplify the message, ease concerns, and build user confidence.

Cybersecurity, for example, is often seen as a hassle by users, but it's a frontline defense for personal and institutional data. Helping users understand this, and making security feel like protection, rather than punitive, is part of building a security-aware culture.

This career shift has shown me that technical success depends not only on technical acumen but also on the ability to educate, support, and communicate effectively. By blending my business skills with growing technical knowledge, I've carved a role that connects both worlds.

From the Arts to IT: Developing a Technical Mindset (Lisette Buckman)

My journey into IT came from an entirely different direction. Transitioning from the arts and writing industry into technology was unexpected, even for me. Initially, I questioned what I could offer in such a technical field, especially given my creative background. Relearning terms I thought I already knew, but now in a completely different context, was one of my biggest early challenges. However, remaining open to change allowed me to adapt and begin to see IT in a new light.

While my previous career might seem worlds apart from technology, I've found surprising parallels, especially in the realm of professional communication. As a writer, I've always understood the importance of clear, concise messaging. In IT, I've discovered just how valuable that can be. Communicating technical information clearly and professionally establishes credibility, fosters collaboration, and builds trust. When people feel heard and understood, they are more likely to engage with solutions and see IT as a supportive partner rather than a separate entity.

Although my previous career seems worlds apart from IT, I've still been able to carry over valuable skills. One key area is professional communication. As a writer, I've always valued clarity and precision, and in IT, I've come to see how critical that is — especially when using technical language. While I had to adjust to the new "jargons," I quickly realized that accurate, professional communication builds credibility. When you articulate your thoughts clearly and use terminology appropriately, others are more inclined to collaborate with you and take your contributions seriously. Not only that, but there is a greater desire for them to trust your work as an IT professional. This has been particularly beneficial in my current role at Oral Roberts University, where I serve as a GeoVision Specialist.

As mentioned earlier, there may not be obvious links between art and IT, but through this transition, I've developed a more technical mindset. I now understand that IT touches every aspect of our lives and learning how to integrate it meaningfully is crucial to succeeding in this evolving digital world.

The Value of Non-Traditional Paths

Although we entered IT from very different starting points — business and the arts — our experiences share a common truth: success in technology is not limited to those with purely technical backgrounds.

IT is about more than systems, code, and networks. It's about communicating, supporting, securing, and empowering people through technology. Our soft skills, creative thinking, and prior experiences have enabled us to bring a human perspective to technical work.

How Mentors Paved the Way to New Possibilities in IT

As we continue to grow in our tech careers, we must acknowledge the invaluable support and guidance of the mentors who have shaped our journey. Our CIO, Mr. Mike Mathews, has been a consistent source of inspiration. His biweekly meetings have not only been motivational but have also deepened our understanding of how growth happens within the corporate tech environment. His emphasis on leadership expectations and strategic thinking has helped shape our perspective on what it means to lead and serve effectively in the IT space.

Our IT director, Mr. Victor Ekwere Jnr., has also played a pivotal role in our transition into tech. His hands-on approach and persistent push for us to seize growth opportunities have kept us focused and accountable. His belief in our potential — and his determination to see us realize it — continues to fuel our progress in this evolving field.

From Where You Are to Where Tech Needs You

For anyone considering a transition from a non-IT background into the technology field, our most important advice is to start where you are and leverage the skills you already possess. Communication, problem-solving, and adaptability are just as valuable in IT as technical expertise. Be curious and willing to learn; technical skills will develop over time and with exposure. Seek out certifications, mentorships, and on-the-job learning opportunities that align with your interests. Most importantly, don't let the fear of not having a traditional tech background hold you back; the field of IT thrives on diverse perspectives. Whether you come from business, the arts, or another industry entirely, your unique background can help bridge gaps, bring creativity to problem-solving, and make technology more accessible to others.