🚀 Meet Justin Collett, a Business Operation Analyst

Hello there,

Introduction:
In this edition, we're excited to bring you an exclusive interview with Justin, who shares his inspiring journey from geomatics engineering to a thriving career in the tech industry. Justin delves into his transition, the skills he leveraged, and the challenges he overcame to pivot into a business operations analytics role.

FXTT: Hi Justin, thanks for joining us! Can you start by sharing a bit about your background and what led you to pivot from geomatics engineering to a career in tech?

Justin: Absolutely! I originally studied geomatics engineering which paired my aptitude for problem-solving with my love for the natural world and provided the opportunity to get involved in a family business.. However, after some time in the industry, I realized I wanted to broaden my horizons by working in other sectors. This eventually sparked my interest in the tech world, which I saw as a path toward optimizing my career trajectory for accelerated learning & growth.

FXTT: What was the pivotal moment for you when you decided to make a career shift?

Justin: The pivotal moment came in my first job after graduating. I worked in land surveying but felt compelled to explore other industries like urban planning or law. None felt right, which led me to consider further education and eventually pivot into tech.

FXTT: How did you manage the transition into your first tech role?

Justin: It involved several steps. Initially, I pivoted within the geospatial industry to gain relevant experience. Then, with further training in business and tech, specifically at Venture for Canada and The Commons, I was able to transition into a business operations analytics role.

FXTT: What skills from your engineering background have been most beneficial in your new role?

Justin: The ability to work with data and solve problems was crucial. These skills were directly applicable to my role in HR tech, where I analyze data to identify and solve operational challenges.

FXTT: Were there any particular challenges you faced when transitioning from geomatics?

Justin: One major challenge was demonstrating how my skills were transferable. Many people weren’t familiar with geomatics, so I had to effectively communicate how my background was relevant to the roles I was applying for.

FXTT: Any advice for others looking to make a similar transition?

Justin: Understand your strengths and the roles that suit them. It’s important to know your ambitions and engage with people in the field to discover opportunities that align with your skills and interests.

FXTT: Do you ever see yourself returning to engineering?

Justin: While I’m not currently planning to return to engineering, having that technical training is a great backup. It provides a solid foundation and flexibility for my career in business operations.

Conclusion:
Justin’s journey from geomatics to business operations illustrates a strategic pathway for anyone considering a career pivot into the tech sector. Justin’s story underscores the importance of leveraging existing skills, engaging in continuous education, and methodically navigating through industry sectors. It's a powerful reminder of how adaptability and informed decision-making pave the way to success in tech. Connect with Justin Collett on LinkedIn to follow his insightful journey and gather more tips on successful career transitions.