TechWhirl (TECHWR-L) is a resource for technical writing and technical communications professionals of all experience levels and in all industries to share their experiences and acquire information.
For two decades, technical communicators have turned to TechWhirl to ask and answer questions about the always-changing world of technical communications, such as tools, skills, career paths, methodologies, and emerging industries. The TechWhirl Archives and magazine, created for, by and about technical writers, offer a wealth of knowledge to everyone with an interest in any aspect of technical communications.
I'm posting my response because I believe you'll all appreciate how
our skills and experience can also translate to other fields. I
spent three years as an entry-level technical writer in a corporate
MIS department after earning a liberal arts degree. Using my
corporate/technical writing experience, I landed a position at a
private high school teaching journalism, desktop publishing,
photography, and computer literacy. What a great experience! If you
ever get the chance to take some time off your career track to teach
teens, do it. You'll never regret it because they'll teach you more
than any adult will.
I taught for two years, and am now consulting/contracting as a
technical writer and instructional designer in Seattle. This
experience taught me that we can traverse fields and industries with
minimal effort.
Enjoy work, and you can go anywhere.
___________________________
Jennie Achtemichuk (206) 828-0229
Kirkland, WA
Independent Consultant (tech communication, instructional design)
Employment Chair, Seattle chapter, STC
Chair, Steering Committee, Visual Communicators PIC (in formation),
STC
