In life, change is often the only constant, and sometimes, it can be the catalyst for discovering new passions and unexpected paths. I worked for a few years as a process engineer in the manufacturing sector, but my curiosity about technology continued to grow.
When the opportunity came to work at IFS, which seamlessly blended my manufacturing expertise with tech, I couldn’t pass it up. Leaving behind a familiar industry for something entirely different was not without its doubts and uncertainties. Change is never easy, but I knew that this was an opportunity I had to seize.
A Supportive Ecosystem:
One of the big highlights of my journey has been the unwavering support I’ve encountered from IFS. Every question I had was met with patience, challenges with collaboration, and setbacks with encouragement. IFS fosters an environment where everyone’s growth is valued, and knowledge-sharing is at the core of the company culture. This dynamic collaboration has not only empowered me to excel in my role but also enabled me to make substantial contributions to the team. The power of a supportive work environment cannot be underestimated, and I am extremely grateful to have found my tribe at IFS. From day one, I was welcomed with open arms. My colleagues turned into mentors, and my manager became a guiding light. The corporate family at IFS isn’t just a team; it’s a community that nurtured growth and celebrated individuality.
Thriving in a Remote Landscape:
The cherry on top of this journey has been the opportunity to work full-time from home. The flexibility and trust extended by IFS during these times have played a pivotal role in maintaining a healthy work-life balance. Working remotely hasn’t kept me from being part of the company’s culture. Rather, it has shown me that a strong working family can go beyond physical boundaries. Even though the team is not in the same place, our collective teamwork and common goals continue to connect us. This experience has taught me that distance doesn’t weaken our strong work bond.
Lessons Learned:
The transition taught me some valuable lessons. I realized that while comfort zones might feel cozy, they rarely lead to growth. It’s okay to swap comfort for curiosity, and routine for innovation. The skills I gained during my time in manufacturing were not just relevant but proved to be transformational. Never underestimate your existing skill set, it’s your foundation for success, no matter where you go. Surround yourself with those who inspire you. Mentors, peers, and friends evolved into my support system, consistently lifting me up along the way.
Impact and Growth:
My transition wasn’t just a career change; it ignited both personal and professional growth. Blending my manufacturing mindset with tech-savviness opened doors I hadn’t imagined. Challenges that had once seemed insurmountable became platforms to innovate, using a unique blend of expertise.
Inspiration for Others:
Taking risks isn’t reckless; it’s a gateway to finding rewards. Leaving comfort zones does not mean abandoning security; it means embracing new possibilities. As I reflected on my journey from the manufacturing floor to the tech industry, I’m extremely grateful for the experiences that have shaped me. Each risk I took, each challenge I faced, and each comfort zone I left behind were investments in my personal and professional growth. Dreams do come true when you combine determination with a thirst for learning. So, go ahead – chase your dreams and rewrite your narrative.
SOURCE : Neththikumara, U. (2023, October 27). Embracing Change: My Journey from Manufacturing to Tech at IFS. IFS Blog. https://blog.ifs.com/2023/10/embracing-change-my-journey-from-manufacturing-to-tech-at-ifs/
