Back to the Magazine|Archive Issue 03

June 2026

Career Journey

Contributor

My Unconventional Tech Journey

My journey into tech didn't begin with a computer science degree, it began with curiosity and a willingness to learn. Through AI, data literacy, and continuous upskilling, I've discovered how technology can transform administrative and HR work while opening new career opportunities. This story encourages others to embrace non-traditional paths into tech.

DK

By

Dorothy Kenyatta

Published

July 1, 2026

Issue

03

June 2026

Read

7 min

Submitted by Dorothy Kenyatta

Build With Her Magazine

When people think about careers in technology, they often picture software engineers writing code or cybersecurity professionals protecting networks. I used to think the same.

Today, I'm discovering that technology has room for professionals from many different backgrounds, including administration and human resources.

My journey into tech has been anything but conventional. I started by studying law, but financial constraints meant I couldn't complete my degree. Although that chapter ended differently than I expected, it taught me resilience and the importance of adapting when life changes your plans.

I later moved to Dubai, where I worked as an Administrative Assistant for nearly two years. During that time, I developed strong organizational, communication and problem solving skills. Those experiences continue to shape the way I work today as an Assistant HR/Admin in the medical industry.

For a while, I thought technology was something reserved for people with computer science degrees. Then I joined the ALX Virtual Assistant programme, and my perspective completely changed.

One of the biggest lessons I learned was that AI isn't replacing administrative professionals. It is transforming how we work.

Through ALX, I explored a wide range of AI powered tools that can improve productivity and reduce time spent on repetitive tasks. I learned to use ChatGPT, Claude, Google Gemini, Microsoft Copilot, Perplexity AI, NotebookLM, Gamma, Canva AI, Notion AI, Otter.ai, Fireflies.ai, Grammarly and Calendly for research, brainstorming, document drafting, summarization, problem solving, presentations, design, organization, meeting transcription, writing and scheduling.

What stood out wasn't the number of tools available. It was learning how to choose the right tool for the right task.

For example, drafting a professional email no longer has to start with a blank page. Meeting notes can be summarized quickly, lengthy documents can be condensed into key action points, presentations can be created faster and research that once took hours can be completed much more efficiently. Instead of replacing human judgment, these tools allow professionals to spend more time on work that requires critical thinking, creativity and meaningful interaction.

Beyond AI tools, I also completed training in Microsoft Excel and Power BI, strengthening my understanding of data and how organizations use it to make informed decisions. Today, I'm continuing my learning journey through the ALX and IBM SkillsBuild Pilot Programme, studying AI Literacy and Data Literacy while working toward IBM Digital Credentials.

Each course has reinforced one important lesson. Technology isn't only about learning new software. It is about developing a mindset of continuous learning and adaptability.

As someone working in HR and administration, I now see opportunities where I once saw routine tasks. AI can support recruitment by helping draft job descriptions, summarize candidate feedback, prepare onboarding documents, generate training materials and automate repetitive administrative work. Data literacy complements these skills by helping professionals interpret information, identify trends and make better decisions.

I don't consider myself an expert yet. I'm still learning, experimenting, and building my confidence every day. But I've realized that waiting until you feel completely ready can keep you from starting at all.

My path into tech didn't begin with a computer science degree. It began with curiosity. It began with saying yes to learning something new.

Today, I'm intentionally building a career that combines administration, human resources, AI, and data. My goal isn't simply to keep up with the future of work. It is to contribute to it.

If you're someone who thinks it's too late to transition into tech or that your background doesn't belong in this space, I hope my story reminds you that technology needs diverse perspectives. Sometimes the most valuable people in tech aren't those who followed the traditional path. They are the ones who bring experience from other industries and use technology to solve real problems.

I'm still building my journey, one course, one tool, and one opportunity at a time. And I believe that's exactly where innovation begins.

A Note From The Editors

Enjoying these stories?

Build With Her exists to document the journeys, lessons, challenges, and breakthroughs of women building in technology.

You do not need a perfect career.

You do not need a large audience.

You only need a story that might help another woman.

Share Your Story