Journey from Mainframe Developer to Tech Solopreneur
In 2020, I was a typical AS400/Mainframe developer. Day in and day out, I worked with systems that were robust yet not cutting-edge. Watching others innovate and launch their SaaS products, I felt a pang of longing but doubted my own capabilities. “I don’t have the skill set,” was a frequent, nagging thought.
Then, the world changed with COVID-19, and so did I. With routines disrupted, I saw an opportunity to disrupt my own professional path. I took my first decisive step towards transformation: learning Python. This was more than just picking up a new programming language; it was about challenging the limits I had set for myself.
By 2021, my journey had taken a deeper dive into tech. I immersed myself in the burgeoning fields of blockchain and Web3, gaining insights into decentralized technologies. Eager to share my newfound knowledge, I created a complete course on how to build a blockchain from scratch and launched it on my website, http://codiesalert.com/. This endeavor was not just about disseminating knowledge but also about solidifying my own understanding and establishing myself as a knowledgeable entity in these niche fields. It was gratifying to see that close to 4000 students benefited from this course, learning and growing in their own tech journeys. Also, launched the blockchain course on udemy.
2022 brought new challenges and learning curves. I explored javascript, nextjs and tailwind. One of the most challenging aspects of venturing into web development was choosing the right framework among the myriad of options available. Being new to the web development world, it was very confusing. I decided to go with Next.js, and it has never disappointed me. Despite setbacks, such as changes to Twitter’s API that killed my Social Media SaaS even before the launch, I continued to learn and adapt.
In 2023, I started exploring the AI space. After 8 months of hard work and juggling between 9-to-5 job, I built my first SaaS product, https://Voxal.ai. While I don't know if it will be successful or not but, I've learned immensely from building it. Regardless of the outcome, this experience will not deter me. I'm committed to continuing my journey, constantly learning and innovating.
Reflecting on my journey, I am so glad I decided to learn Python. That first step catalyzed a series of transformations, breaking mental barriers and proving that it’s never too late to redefine one’s career.
Like many, I once thought my career was set in stone due to my initial skill set. However, the truth is, we always have options; we just need to challenge ourselves and step out of our comfort zones.
To those feeling pigeonholed by their current skills or industry: remember, every expert was once a beginner. Challenge your boundaries, embrace continuous learning, and take those bold steps. The journey might be unpredictable, but it is also liberating and rewarding.