I want to give you a bit of context before jumping into the steps on how to pivot your career into a new vertical within trades and engineering.

If you're in the second chapter of your career, this article is for you (check out my earlier piece on Chapters of Trades & Engineering here).

Let me walk you through the 3 key stages you need to follow when transitioning your career into a new niche within the industry.

Stage 1 – Research

Start by doing your homework. Researching the new industry is critical because switching careers doesn’t happen often. Why are you keen on making the move? A pay rise alone won’t sustain you; passion and genuine interest are key.

Maybe you’re passionate about climate change and want to transition from civil engineering to renewables. Once you’ve made up your mind, dig deeper—find out which companies are hiring, who’s winning projects, and whether you’ll need additional qualifications or certifications.

Stage 2 – Network

Next, it’s time to grow your network in the new industry. Here’s how:

• Attend industry events

• Chat with people already working in your target industry

• Reach out to stakeholders you know outside of your current role

• Speak with someone who’s already in the position you’re aiming for

As you connect with more people, you’ll begin to understand the market dynamics better.

Stage 3 – Adapting Your Digital Fingerprint

If you’re unfamiliar with the term digital fingerprint, have a look at my article on the topic here.

The way recruiters and hiring managers see you online is tied to your current industry, so it’s time to tweak (not overhaul) your digital presence. Look at job ads in your new target field and identify transferable skills—make sure they stand out in your profiles. A simple addition to your “Career Summary” mentioning your strong interest in the new industry can also go a long way.

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Switching industries, especially when you’re in the second chapter of your career, can be challenging, but with the right strategy, it’s entirely possible. If you need any further advice, feel free to reach out on LinkedIn or shoot me an email at hello@leaderscout.co.