The challenges of working in retail have grown significantly for many, especially with the pandemic’s fallout, rising living costs, and the struggle to balance work and family life. Leaving a retail job can feel daunting, but stepping into the tech world opens up exciting opportunities. By 2033, tech skills will be a requirement across every industry. With a large portion of the workforce already seeking to reskill, the need for tech-savvy professionals is rapidly increasing.
In this article, we’ll take a closer look at Maritza’s inspiring journey from retail to tech. You’ll learn why she made the switch, how Merit America helped her along the way, and how she landed a life-changing job with a $45,000 salary increase—all in just a few short months.
From Retail to Searching for a Change: Maritza’s Journey Before Merit America
Maritza spent years as a stay-at-home mom after working in retail, but she knew she couldn’t go back. With two toddlers, she needed more flexibility and career growth—something retail couldn’t offer. The long hours and lack of family time left her wondering what her next move could be.
College wasn’t affordable, and fast-paced boot camps didn’t fit her life as a busy mom. But one day, while scrolling TikTok, she found something that caught her attention—Merit America.
At first, she was hesitant. “I barely knew how to turn on my computer,” she laughed, feeling like tech was way out of reach. But the flexibility and affordability of the program gave her hope: no upfront payment, no expensive textbooks, and the ability to learn from home. Earning a Google IT Support Certificate with career coaches by her side was exactly what she needed to take the leap.
Building Skills and Confidence with Merit America
Enrolling in Merit America’s IT Support program was a significant step for Maritza, but the structure and resources made it a smooth journey. “You have to really want a change,” she reflected, acknowledging the commitment required to succeed.
The program taught her essential IT support skills—everything from assembling computers and setting up networks to providing customer service. Maritza learned to navigate systems like Linux, the Command Line Interface, and even Binary Code. More than just technical knowledge, the program instilled in her the confidence to troubleshoot and support customers effectively.
For many learners, the idea of connecting with a career coach might not seem like a priority when considering online job training. But for Maritza, the coaching was a critical part of her success.
“It was my favorite part of the program,” she said. “Everyone was so positive and willing to listen. They wanted me to succeed.”
Her coach and squad of peers were key to helping her feel confident in her transition to tech. “I was the least tech-savvy person in the squad,” she admits, “but the interview questions, resume, and cover letter prep gave me confidence.”
Maritza’s resume, sharpened by Merit America’s coaching, helped her stand out in a pool of 800 applicants. “They loved how my confidence came through,” she said, even though it was her first IT role. One of her squad members even helped her land her first interview by tagging her in a job post—a connection she wouldn’t have made otherwise.
📌Related: How Much Does Merit America Cost And What’s Included?
How Maritza Landed An Entry-Level Tech Job
Like many others considering a career change, Maritza had questions about Merit America: Is Merit America legit? Does Merit America really help you land a job? For her, the answer was a resounding “yes.”
Just nine weeks into the 14-week program, and three weeks before she completed it, Maritza landed a job as a Help Desk Specialist at CorVel Corporation. This new role came with a remarkable $45,000 salary increase.
Her new position not only provided her with an entry into the tech world but also the work-life balance she had longed for, giving her more time with her children.
As Maritza shared on LinkedIn:
“I graduated a few months ago from the Merit America IT Support program. I had zero tech experience, and my computer skills were close to zero! I was scared that I was in over my head and wouldn’t make it. During interviews, I didn’t have many hard tech skills to lean on. But I used the soft skills I’d gained from over 10 years in retail. I was curious, authentic, and open about my learning journey. Despite not being a tech wiz, I was positive that if they gave me a chance, I’d be a great fit for the role. And guess what? They took a chance on me and offered me the job! Three months in, I was top IT ticket closer of the month. I’m learning every day and never stop asking questions.”
📌Related: Is Merit America Legit? And Other Job Training Questions
Start Your Journey with Merit America Today
Despite their busy schedules—whether as caregivers, drivers, teachers, or warehouse workers—thousands of alumni, like Maritza, are successfully transitioning to tech and never looking back.
Now is the perfect time to explore the tech career that suits you best, all without the need for a four-year degree. Take our ‘Which Program Is Right For Me?’ quiz to get started!
If you need more time to prepare before applying, check out our blog post on ‘How To Get A Job in IT: Entry-Level IT Jobs with Training.’
When you’re ready to dive into a high-growth field like Maritza, Merit America is here to support you every step of the way. Apply today and embark on your journey toward a fulfilling career!