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Are you considering a career in technology? If so, taking a moment to assess your interests and skills can be incredibly beneficial. In just three minutes, you can discover whether a tech career aligns with your strengths and what steps you can take to reach your professional goals.
A Journey into Tech: From Military to Freelance
Stacy Clements, a former United States Air Force communications officer, embarked on her tech journey after 23 years of service. Sixteen years into her military career, she decided to explore web development, which ultimately led her to establish a successful freelance business specializing in WordPress.
Transitioning to Freelance Development
Stacy’s foray into web development began as a side project. Her meticulous time management and dedication allowed her to gradually acquire the necessary tech skills. The pivotal moment came during a casual conversation with a local store manager who needed a website. Seizing the opportunity, Stacy agreed to take on the challenge, marking the beginning of her freelance career.
Initially, she constructed websites primarily using HTML and CSS, but the introduction of WordPress in 2010 revolutionized her approach. As her clientele expanded, she sought a platform that would empower her clients to make updates independently. WordPress proved to be the perfect solution, offering flexibility and ease of use.
Why Choose WordPress?
WordPress, particularly the self-hosted version available on WordPress.org, is renowned for its adaptability. Originally designed as a blogging platform, it has evolved into a powerful Content Management System (CMS) capable of supporting various website types—ranging from informational sites to e-commerce platforms.
One of the significant advantages of using a CMS like WordPress is the streamlined process for managing website content. Unlike traditional HTML and CSS, where each page must be edited and re-uploaded, WordPress allows users to manage their content through a user-friendly interface with a simple click of the “Publish” button. Although more complex tasks require advanced coding skills, the platform’s accessibility enables clients to perform basic updates without technical assistance.
The Role of a WordPress Developer
Today, Stacy is not only a freelancer but also a small business owner. Her focus is on helping small businesses transition from DIY websites to professionally designed WordPress sites, integrating essential services like email marketing and e-commerce functionality.
Her daily routine begins with checking for urgent support tickets related to website issues such as crashes or security breaches. After addressing any emergencies, Stacy organizes her email and handles smaller tasks before diving into her primary projects.
Regular maintenance is crucial in her role, which includes testing backups, updating software, and performing security scans. This proactive approach safeguards her clients’ websites and enhances performance. Beyond maintenance, she dedicates time to professional development, ensuring she remains updated on industry trends and technology.
Essential Skills for WordPress Developers
For those considering a career in WordPress development, it’s vital to cultivate both technical and non-technical skills. Mastering the WordPress platform and coding basics is essential, but equally important are project management and communication skills. Effective project management involves defining requirements, scheduling tasks, and meeting deadlines—skills that are invaluable whether you’re freelancing or working for an employer.
Additionally, strong communication can make or break a project. Many failures stem from misunderstandings, so fostering clear communication is essential. Lastly, time management is crucial; if tasks aren’t scheduled, they often go unaccomplished. The flexibility of working with WordPress allows developers to create their schedules, but it’s up to them to leverage that flexibility effectively.
Stacy’s journey from military service to tech entrepreneurship showcases how transferable skills can lead to a fulfilling career in technology. Whether you’re just starting or contemplating a career shift, assessing your interests and skills can pave the way for a successful future in tech.
