Meet Suriya: Career Changer and More

From Chemical Engineering to Software Engineering: Suriya Takong’s Career Pivot with WeStride Institute of Technology

Changing careers can often feel like an insurmountable challenge, especially when it means transitioning from a field like chemical engineering to the fast-paced world of software development. For Suriya Takong, however, this challenge became an opportunity to redefine his career and passions—all thanks to WeStride Institute of Technology.

Discovering the Need for Change

Suriya's journey began in college, where he pursued a degree in chemical engineering. While he excelled academically, he quickly realized during his internship as a Supply Chain Analyst at Chia Tai that his heart wasn’t in the work. "I wanted something more dynamic, something that combined problem-solving with creativity," Suriya shared.

Despite his concerns, Suriya completed his degree and gained valuable professional experience. However, the itch to find a career that truly resonated with him never went away. That’s when he stumbled upon WeStride Institute of Technology’s programs, which promised a practical, project-based approach to learning tech skills.

Taking the Leap

Suriya Takong joined WeStride’s software engineering program with no prior coding experience. At first, he found the technical concepts intimidating. “I remember my first JavaScript assignment—it was overwhelming,” he admitted. But with the support of his mentors, structured curriculum, and a collaborative peer community, Suriya's confidence began to grow.

The program’s hands-on projects allowed Suriya  to apply what he was learning in real-world scenarios. By building a responsive e-commerce website and collaborating on a group project to create a social networking platform, he quickly developed a strong portfolio to showcase his skills.

The Career Pivot

After completing the program, Suriya landed his first role as an Associate Front-End Developer. His foundational knowledge in HTML, CSS, and JavaScript, combined with his ability to learn on the job, helped him succeed in this new role. Over time, he expanded his skills to include backend development, mastering tools like Node.js and databases. This progression enabled him to transition into a full-stack role at Arise by INFINITAS, a joint venture between Thai financial technology company, Infinitas by Krungthai, and Accenture, a global professional services leader, where he now thrives as an Associate Full-Stack Engineer.

Reflection on the Journey

Suriya Takong’s journey is a testament to the power of determination and the right support system. “The WeStride program wasn’t just about learning to code—it was about learning how to think like a developer, collaborate effectively, and adapt to new challenges,” Suriya reflected.

Advice for Aspiring Career Changers

For those considering a similar leap, Suriya offers this advice: “Don’t be afraid to start over. With the right mindset and the right resources, you can build a career that aligns with your passion and goals.”