How to Transition from Chemical Process Engineer to Product Management

What was your Background Prior to Product Management?

I have a background in chemical engineering. I worked in the semiconductor manufacturing industry for a few years as a process engineer, and then I switched over to work in a sales role for a little bit for a small software company in Virginia.

After you Joined Product Gym, How many Interviews were you Averaging a Week?

I would say probably close to five to ten, depending on the week. I think that a big part of that was just my schedule and how many interviews I can really fit in. It’s not that I couldn’t have more, it’s more that I didn’t want to have more.

Did you Feel that Product Gym Adequately Prepared you for your Current PM Role?

Yeah, absolutely! I never felt that I was behind. In fact, I’m actually surprised that in some cases, I know more about the approaches that are possible and how to go about things than some of the other product managers that I’ve worked with.

What are Some Words of Encouragement you have for Current PM Job Hunters?

I would say to really just keep going. There is no easy way out, if that’s what you’re looking for. You have to keep going, but you also need to know that at the end of all of that hard work, you will find the job that really fits your skills, personality and a company that highly values you with your experience. Sometimes, we just say: “I just want any job. Just give me one right now.” But as you start interviewing more and start getting those offers, you realize that you actually have a choice. You don’t have to settle for the first and one and only thing.