Where do I go now with no skills in my thirties?

I was made redundant from an admin role in April and I am in my thirties. I have a degree in commerce from a decade ago that led to nothing. Luckily I have a casual retail job that has been keeping me together for now. No full time openings and I am not keen on part time because it is only 12 hours a week. I never liked studying and going back to uni/tafe is not an option. I failed many times and was just passing. I applied for hundreds of jobs and all rejections, got a few interviews that went nowhere. No real skills, surprised I made it this far in life. Don't know where to go from here, don't think it will get better.

Jobadvisor:

I understand how difficult this situation must be for you. It's tough to feel lost and unsure about the future, especially when facing job rejection and a lack of direction. However, it's important to remember that you're not alone and there are ways to move forward.

Here are some things to consider:

1. Reframe your mindset: Instead of focusing on your past failures and lack of skills, try to shift your focus to your strengths and potential. Everyone has something to offer, and you likely possess valuable skills that you may not even realize. Think about what you enjoy doing, what you're good at, and what you're passionate about. These can be clues to potential career paths.

2. Explore online learning: If traditional education isn't your thing, there are many online courses and resources available to help you learn new skills at your own pace. Consider platforms like Coursera, edX, or Udemy, which offer a wide range of courses in various subjects, including business, technology, and creative fields.   

3. Consider alternative career paths: Don't limit yourself to traditional 9-to-5 jobs. There are many other ways to earn a living, such as freelancing, starting your own business, or pursuing a career in the gig economy. Think about what you're passionate about and how you could turn that into a viable career.   

4. Network, network, network: Building relationships with people in your industry can be invaluable. Attend industry events, join online communities, and connect with people on LinkedIn. Networking can help you learn about job opportunities, gain insights into different career paths, and receive support from others in your field.   

5. Seek professional help: If you're feeling overwhelmed or stuck, consider seeking the guidance of a career counselor or therapist. They can provide you with valuable advice and support as you navigate your career path.

Remember, it's never too late to make a change. With a positive mindset, a willingness to learn, and a bit of perseverance, you can find a fulfilling career that you'll enjoy.

No bullshit. Is it unrealistic to get an entry level in tech with no degree within 6 months?

I am turning 30.

I have no experience in coding, IT, or anything related to tech outside of the normal kid being IT for family stuff.

I would like to have a career that works on medical technology. My "career" so far has been working in hospitality and warehouses.

There are multiple coding bootcamps around me that all claim to have great job placement percentages. I am worried that they are blowing smoke given the job market, and given the price of the courses, I am hesitant. Then there are the free courses, but I have read mixed reviews.

There is also the IT route, and I am currently doing a Comptia course, but I don't know if that will be enough.

I am working in a warehouse at the moment. I am grateful to be employed, but I can't help but feel that my time would be better spent working towards my goal. I don't mind working a bottom of the barrel job, but I would like it to be somewhat relevant to my desired career goals.

The goal is to work with medical technology that helps with brain issues. Whether that is medical imaging, mapping, rehabilitation software, or whatever.

Is it unrealistic to think I can get a relevant job within 6 months? Am I barking up the wrong tree? Are there any better paths for me to follow?

Jobadvisor:

Is it unrealistic to land an entry-level tech job in 6 months with no degree?

Short answer: No, it's not unrealistic.

However, it will require dedication, strategic planning, and a bit of luck.

Here's a breakdown of your situation and potential paths:

1. Coding Bootcamps:

• Pros:
  • Intensive, focused learning
  • Potential for rapid skill acquisition
  • Job placement assistance
• Cons:
  • Significant upfront cost
  • High competition for placements

2. Self-Learning and Free Courses:

• Pros:
  • Flexible learning pace
  • No upfront cost
• Cons:
  • Requires strong self-discipline
  • Potential for information overload
  • Lack of structured learning and guidance

3. IT Certifications (like CompTIA):

• Pros:
  • Recognized industry certifications
  • Can open doors to entry-level IT roles
• Cons:
  • May not be directly relevant to medical technology

Recommended Path:

Considering your goal of working with medical technology, a combination of self-learning and a coding bootcamp might be the most effective approach.

Here's a suggested plan:

1. Start with Self-Learning:

   • Foundation: Learn the basics of programming (Python, JavaScript) and data structures and algorithms.
   • Medical Tech Focus: Explore specific areas like medical image processing, machine learning in healthcare, or biomedical engineering.
   • Project-Based Learning: Build small projects related to your interests, such as image analysis, data visualization, or simple AI models.

2. Enroll in a Coding Bootcamp:

   • Choose a Bootcamp: Look for bootcamps that offer specialized tracks in data science, machine learning, or health tech.
   • Network: Connect with fellow students, alumni, and industry professionals.
   • Leverage Job Placement Services: Utilize the bootcamp's resources to find relevant opportunities.

Additional Tips:

• Build a Strong Portfolio: Showcase your skills through personal projects and code repositories on GitHub.
• Network Actively: Attend industry events, join online communities, and connect with professionals on LinkedIn.
• Be Persistent: Job hunting can be challenging. Don't get discouraged; keep applying and following up.
• Consider Volunteering or Internships: Gain practical experience and build connections in the medical technology field.

While the 6-month timeframe is ambitious, it's achievable with focused effort. Remember, the tech industry values skills and potential over traditional qualifications. Good luck!

I reported my boss for poisoning people and was told that I needed to “read more”.

I reported a serious safety concern to my general manager regarding the unsafe mixing of pool chemicals (including oxidizers, chlorine shock, and muriatic acid). This practice poses a significant risk of toxic chemical exposure, including the potential release of chlorine gas, which can be fatal. The general manager escalated the issue to HR, who promptly investigated. I was interviewed by a corporate representative and an HR representative, during which I provided a detailed explanation of the dangers involved. I was assured the matter would be resolved and emphasized that my identity should remain confidential to avoid workplace repercussions or bias.

Shortly after, I was called into a meeting with the director of operations and a high-ranking corporate official, where I was reprimanded for allegedly bypassing proper reporting channels. For clarity, I had followed the appropriate chain of command by reporting the issue to my general manager, who then escalated it further. During this meeting, I reiterated the dangers of mixing these chemicals, noting that even basic research or consultation with industry representatives confirms the risks. I was told the issue would be addressed.

Despite these assurances, I was called into a meeting with my GM and the reported individual and was informed that the individual I reported was made aware of my identity, in direct contradiction to my request for anonymity. My supervisor began the single largest gaslighting event I have yet to witness and began defending their unsafe practices by providing inaccurate explanations, and dismissed the established risks of mixing chemicals. He straight up told me I need to read more and said it was safe to swim 10 minutes after he puts the strongest shock we can buy from our supplier in the pool. They also claimed that the chlorine produced by the facility’s saltwater generator differs from liquid chlorine, suggesting it was safe to add acid even at high chlorine levels—a claim that contradicts basic chemical safety principles.

I am deeply concerned about the lack of appropriate action and the risks this situation poses, particularly as the pool is in a hotel setting frequented by families and children. Retaliation remains a significant concern, and I fear that escalating this issue to external authorities may jeopardize my employment. However, I believe that if this continues unaddressed, the consequences could be catastrophic. I don’t know what to do or who to turn to as I have just been made out into a “tattletale” as far as corporate is concerned.

Edit: I prefer to not disclose what state I’m in as I fear it would narrow down my identity to my supervisor should he come across this, but as afar as record keeping goes, he was dumb enough to right on purpose paper audit book that he mixed these chemicals himself and I have audio recorded all in person meetings since the original report to my gm.

Jobadvisor:

Disclaimer: I am not a legal professional. The following advice is general in nature and should not be considered as legal counsel. It is crucial to consult with an attorney to discuss your specific situation and receive tailored legal advice.

Understanding Your Situation

It's clear that you've taken a significant step in reporting a serious safety concern. However, the response you've received is deeply troubling and potentially illegal. Retaliation for reporting safety concerns is a serious offense in many jurisdictions.

Potential Next Steps:

1. Document Everything:

   • Keep detailed records of all conversations, meetings, and emails related to the incident.
   • Save any relevant documents, such as safety data sheets (SDS) for the chemicals involved.
   • Preserve any audio recordings you have made.

2. Consult with an Attorney:

   • An employment attorney can provide specific legal advice based on your situation and local laws. They can help you understand your rights, assess potential legal claims, and advise on the best course of action.

3. Consider Filing a Complaint with OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Administration):

   • OSHA is a federal agency responsible for ensuring safe and healthy working ¹ conditions. You can file a complaint anonymously or with your name attached.   
     1. www.oshaoutreachcourses.com

     www.oshaoutreachcourses.com

4. Reach Out to a Labor Union (if applicable):

   • If you are a member of a union, contact your union representative to discuss your concerns and seek support.

5. Explore Whistleblower Protection Laws:

   • Research whistleblower protection laws in your state or country. These laws may provide additional protections for individuals who report safety violations.

Important Considerations:

• Safety First: Your primary concern should be the safety of yourself and others. If you feel unsafe or threatened, consider taking steps to protect yourself, such as documenting incidents and seeking support from colleagues or external organizations.
• Legal Counsel: An attorney can guide you through the legal process, help you understand your rights, and represent your interests.
• Emotional Well-being: Dealing with workplace retaliation can be emotionally draining. Consider seeking support from friends, family, or a mental health professional.

Remember, you have the right to a safe working environment. Don't be afraid to stand up for yourself and others, even if it means facing challenges.