5 Hard Truths from Interviewing 100+ LATAM Tech Talents.
Career Lessons in a Changing World
Over the last two months, my role at TeamEx gave me a rare opportunity to sit down with more than 100 talented individuals from across LATAM – developers from Microsoft, Disney, and a diverse range of companies and industries. I saw firsthand the unique blend of resilience, adaptability, and passion in this region's tech talent. As a project manager and operations leader, my goal was to uncover not only hard skills but also the career motivations, ambitions and struggles that these talented individuals face.
From these conversations, five key insights emerged, each shedding light on the changing landscape of tech careers and what it takes to succeed in today’s market. Whether you’re a PM, an ops manager, or an aspiring dev, these takeaways might just reshape how you approach your career and professional development.
1. There’s No Such Thing as a “Stable” Job Anymore
One of the most consistent truths I encountered was that the idea of job stability is becoming a thing of the past. Positions are constantly evolving, and with that comes the reality that you’ll likely face career changes sooner than expected. In some cases, people move up by choice, seizing opportunities to grow. In others, positions grow beyond them, pushing them to adapt or pivot. Either way, stability as we knew it no longer exists. Embracing this dynamic nature of tech careers can give you a more proactive, empowered approach to managing your own path forward.
Key takeaway: Stability is a mindset, not a job description. Being prepared to adapt is more valuable than any single position.
2. Career Growth Is a Requirement, Not a Bonus
As tech demands rise and roles become more complex, career growth has become a non-negotiable for anyone wanting longevity in their position. The choice is often between consistent self-improvement and the risk of falling behind in a fast-moving field. Each developer I spoke to was constantly honing skills, whether through online courses, certifications, or side projects. This growth mindset ensures you aren’t just maintaining your role but actively evolving with it.
Key takeaway: You’re either growing in your role or watching it grow beyond you. Embrace continuous learning to remain relevant.
3. Tech Is Ageless: Passion, Not Age, Drives Success
One of the most inspiring aspects of my interviews was discovering the diversity of ages and backgrounds among tech talent in LATAM. I spoke with fresh out of university talents as well as talents entering the field after decades in different industries. What mattered in each conversation wasn’t age but enthusiasm, resilience, and a willingness to learn. In tech, success doesn’t have an age limit; it’s open to anyone willing to put in the effort.
Key takeaway: Tech is one of the few industries where passion outweighs years. If you have the drive, there’s no age barrier.
4. The Pandemic Was a Pivotal Moment for Many Careers
COVID-19 not only disrupted lives but also steered many individuals toward new careers in tech. A staggering 60% of the developers I interviewed had an average of just five years of experience, with most of them crediting the pandemic as the turning point. Many professionals realized that tech offered stability, growth, and a chance to pivot their careers. This influx of new talent has introduced fresh perspectives and diverse skills to the industry, enriching it in unexpected ways.
Key takeaway: Major life events like the pandemic can be catalysts for growth and change. Seize such moments as opportunities.
5. To Achieve Your Goals, You Must Leave Your Comfort Zone
One lesson that resonated was that tech success often demands a willingness to step away from what’s familiar and comfortable. Many of the devs I spoke with had made bold moves, whether it was switching fields, starting from scratch, or moving into roles that challenged them in completely new ways. This shared trait of courage and a desire for growth underscored the truth that the path to achieving dreams is rarely easy or comfortable – it requires sacrifice.
Key takeaway: Leaving your comfort zone is the first step toward meaningful growth. Without risk, there’s no reward.
Closing Thoughts
These insights from LATAM’s tech talent are relevant to developers and anyone navigating a career in today’s world. As the industry continues to evolve, so must we. Our willingness to grow, adapt, and step outside our comfort zones can make all the difference in achieving a fulfilling career.
These reflections offer valuable guidance for building a resilient, purpose-driven career for product managers, operations leaders, and tech professionals alike. If you’re looking to make your mark in tech, let these lessons remind you that success is as much about attitude and adaptability as it is about skills.