Article by Louisa Teece, Technical Specialist, OV
Before I became a parent, I was based in an office, working in the business travel industry. Following the popularity of online travel shopping, the industry saw a dramatic change, physical offices were slowly dying, and with it so was my interest in the job.
Though my enthusiasm at work was waning, it took me far too long to realise that I was stuck in a dead-end job that frankly paid me very little. It was only once I’d experienced time away and had the chance to reflect that I realised going back was absolutely not an option.
I toyed with the idea of temping, but then my husband suggested retraining while I wasn’t working, and something clicked. I cut ties with the travel industry and decided not to return to work after maternity leave, giving myself three years to find what I wanted to do, re-train, and get out there. Daunting to say the least!
Of course, it’s only when you restart your career later on in life that you realise so much of the entry job market is tailored to school leavers. I tried out local trade markets and the recruitment fairs run by the Isle of Man (IoM) Department of Industry, but they were typically aimed at someone starting out in their first ever job.
So, I looked through the local papers, scouring business sections and job ads, constantly looking out for which industries were featured and who was hiring. After a while, it became clear that three sectors were booming on the Island: IT, Engineering, and Construction.
Construction didn’t appeal to me, especially as I needed a degree to get there, and Engineering was a similar story. So, it looked like I’d found my match: IT.
With IT, I knew I could go to college and get a qualification, but the main draw was the sheer number of potential opportunities and places hiring. At the time, it was pretty clear that there was a huge labour shortage – which there still is today.
Having the option to learn online was the deciding factor for me. The flexibility this gave me, meant I could learn at night when my son was in bed. And with so many online resources and platforms available, some free, some subscription based, I felt well supported.
I chose Microsoft’s free course, which included online learning tools and tutorials, then I paid for a subscription from Pluralsight, an online platform for on-demand training. Once I reached a certain level and passed my entry-level certificate for SQL Server on Microsoft, I started applying for jobs.
After just 12 months or so, I was ready to start the job hunt again, with a completely new outlook on the market. I started applying to entry-level IT jobs and in what felt like no time, I’d received a job offer from Partitionware.
Since then, OV, a global multi-network provider of cellular connectivity to IoT and mobile service providers, acquired Partitionware, and it’s now where I work today. IT is the perfect fit for me, and I am certain I would never have been able to change careers and discover my dream job, had it not been for online learning.
It took me to the age of 35 to realise it, but if you’re wondering about a career change, don’t wait like me. If you’re worried about taking time out to commit to in-person training, there’s a whole world of opportunities and resources online, so believe in yourself, and don’t let uncertainty be a barrier to your happiness.
Louisa Teece is a technical specialist at OV with a special focus on data management and BI. Louisa has been with OV since 2017 and over the years has developed a vast understanding of database management and administration. In more recent months Louisa has now delved into BI/MI and reporting analytics, highlighting key trends with the networks and partners we operate with. This data is a key aspect in us supporting our partners.
June
26junAll DayThe Brilliance Summit 2025
26/06/2025 All Day(GMT+01:00)
De Vere Grand Connaught Rooms
The Edinburgh Suite, 61-65 Great Queen St, London WC2B 5DA
We’re proud to announce our partnership with The Brilliance Summit, an electrifying one-day event for women in leadership
This isn’t just a summit—it’s a movement.
“At The Brilliance Summit, women show up, speak up, and level up. They shake off limitations, own their presence, and lean into their next level.”
Taking place in London on Thursday, 26th June this transformative event is curated for ambitious women who lead, whether that’s in the boardroom, the business world, or within themselves.
Here’s why this matters:
We’ve seen the power of what happens when women are given space to show up fully—and this is that space.
As partners, we’re excited to offer our community a discounted ticket.
Use code WeAreTheCity2025 at checkout to access your exclusive rate.
Grab your ticket now at www.thebrilliancesummit.com
Let this be the moment you stop waiting and start owning your brilliance.
26jun08:0017:00WeAreTech Festival | Hybrid Conference
26/06/2025 08:00 - 17:00(GMT+01:00)
etc.venues, St Paul's,
200 Aldersgate St, Barbican, London, EC1A 4HD
As a hybrid event dedicated to empowering women in technology, our festival continues to break barriers and redefine industry norms. This year promises an even more exhilarating experience as we bring together women from diverse backgrounds and experiences to share knowledge, inspire one another, and create new opportunities for growth and advancement in the tech industry.
The WeAreTech Festival is a beacon of inspiration for women in the tech industry, urging them to confidently stride forward in their careers. Our goal is simple yet profound: to inspire and motivate every attendee to take bold steps towards their professional aspirations.
Throughout the day, you’ll have unparalleled access to the wisdom and insights of senior leaders in the tech field. Engage with thought-provoking discussions through our panels, where you can contribute your perspectives and glean invaluable knowledge from industry experts.
But that’s not all. The afternoon sessions are designed to put you in the driver’s seat of your learning journey. Tailor your experience to your needs and interests, shaping your path towards growth and success in the tech world.
And let’s not forget the added perks of speed networking and mentoring. Connect with like-minded individuals, forge meaningful relationships, and gain invaluable guidance from seasoned professionals who are eager to support your journey.
At the WeAreTech Festival, we believe in empowering women to embrace their potential and seize every opportunity that comes their way. Join us, and let’s embark on this transformative journey together.