Switching Gears: A No-Fluff Guide to Changing Careers in 2025
So… you’re ready for something new. Maybe your industry is changing. Maybe you’ve changed. Maybe you’re just burned out and staring at job boards, wondering, What now?
You’re not alone. Career pivots are one of the most searched job topics in 2025—and for good reason. Between layoffs, AI disruption, and the eternal search for meaning, more of us are rethinking what we want from work.
I’ve pivoted more than once—technolgy, NASA Mission, NASA education, and now the solar industry. Wild ride, right?
That’s me at NASA pointing to the asteroid we were going to visit PSYCHE!
But here’s what I’ve learned:
Companies still need the same core things—clear data, reliable tech, organized operations, strong communication, and people who know how to lead a project from chaos to done. Whether you're supporting a classroom or launching a solar field, the infrastructure is familiar.
I've kept myself relevant with a mix of certifications (and my friend, YouTube University), curiosity, and sheer stubbornness.
If you're wondering whether you can pivot too? You absolutely can. And you don't have to start from scratch.
You don’t need to have it all figured out. But you do need a plan. Let’s get you started.
1. Your Resume Is Step One—Not an Afterthought
If you’re pivoting careers, your resume needs to tell a new story. That starts with trimming the fluff and aligning it to the job you want, not the one you had.
Tips:
Mirror the language of the job posting. Those keywords aren’t optional—they’re how you get past the scanners.
Show impact and how that will translate to the new job. Did you lead a big effort? Did you save your old company money? Did you increase revenue?
Highlight transferable skills (think: project management, customer experience, communication, collaboration, budgeting).
Use a clean, modern format. No need for fancy graphics or fonts. Clarity > Creativity.
Run it through Grammarly (get the free trial) to catch typos and awkward phrasing, especially if you’ve used AI tools to help write it. AI can be helpful, but it doesn’t always sound like you, and it’s not great with grammar.
2. Consider Learning While Earning
You don’t have to go back to school for a full degree to switch paths.
Look into apprenticeships and on-the-job training programs. These are making a comeback in everything from tech to healthcare to the trades. Check universities, state, and federal job programs.
Certifications can also give you credibility in a new industry—think CompTIA or Google’s certificates for IT, digital marketing, and UX.
Volunteer or take on freelance projects in your target field. Even a short project can build proof of your skills and interest. Try joining a local group in your field and volunteering! For example, if you are trying to break into project management, join your local PMI group and volunteer to help the chapter.
I did a quick search on apprenticeships and I found this program with Arizona Dept of Economic Security! Apprenticeships are out there!
3. Get Clear on Your Value—and Own It
A career pivot isn’t about pretending to be someone else. It’s about repositioning who you already are.
Most hiring managers are looking for:
Someone who can learn fast and adapt
Someone easy to work with
Someone who can lead without ego
Someone who brings value to the table—whether that’s fresh perspective, great communication, or the ability to get things done
If you can show that you’re a quick learner who knows how to collaborate and get results, you’re already ahead of the game.
4. Learn to Talk About the Pivot with Confidence
This is where most people freeze. They don’t know how to explain why they’re making a switch—and that lack of clarity can be a red flag.
Try this structure:
“I’ve loved the work I’ve done in [old field], but I’m ready to bring those skills into a new challenge. What I’ve realized is that I’m most energized by [what you’re excited to do], and I’ve already started developing my skills in that area through [learning/certifications/freelance].”
Practice saying it out loud. Practice it with a friend. Say it until you believe it—because it’s true.
5. Build a New Network (You Don’t Need 500 People)
You don’t need to know everyone in the new field—you just need to know someone.
Search LinkedIn for people with the job title you want and message them.
Ask, “What advice would you give someone trying to break into this field?”
Join an online community or professional group related to the industry.
Attend one virtual or in-person event this month. Just one.
People want to help—it makes them feel valuable too.
6. Focus on Progress, Not Perfection
You don’t need the perfect resume, perfect story, or perfect plan. You just need momentum. One step at a time.
Apply to one job, even if you’re not “100% qualified.” That myth keeps so many women from applying.
Reach out to one person. Learn one new thing. Take one action this week.
What You Need to Pivot Careers in 2025
A resume that speaks the language of your future, not your past
A commitment to learning (and showing proof)
A confident story about why you’re making the move
A couple of real human connections in your new space
The guts to try, even when it’s messy
You don’t need to be the smartest or the most experienced. You just need to be clear, coachable, and committed.
If you’re thinking about a pivot, let us help. Our course, You Are Kind of a Big Deal, walks you through how to prep your story, your resume, and your mindset for your next move.
What to hear more from us about finding a job? Check out our podcast about the job market!
