For starters, see my career path post. But if you are thinking about a career in technology business management and want to know how to get started, here are some thoughts.
Degree
I know that some universities have begun to offer degrees in TBM, both undergrad and post grad. I’m not sure that any degree is an indicator of success, but you need to have a base level of knowledge to get your foot in the door. I was a Finance major, but it was probably my accounting classes that gave me a base. You could also take some low lever computer science classes to better understand the concepts. In terms of post grad, there are a few notable programs. Brown University runs an Executive Masters in Technology Management program. (https://professional.brown.edu/emstl/). I’ve done a bit of research on this program and it’s credible. It’s also $80k! If your employer pays, or if you have the money; have at it. If you’re paying out of your own pocket, I’m not sure I could justify it.
First Job
Your first job is probably the most important job you ever take. For most people it establishes a track. If Technology Business Management is the track you want to be on, make sure you find the right role even if the money isn’t there initially. Once there, your job is to be sponge, raise your hand constantly, and do crappy tasks with a smile. There’s no other magic to it.
Certifications The TBM Council started offering a certification as a TBM professional. I reviewed the material and it’s not a bad offering. Do I think it’s absolutely necessary? No. But it gives you a way to differentiate yourself from others and I believe it only takes one day to get the credentials. It seems a bit expensive and I was a bit skeptical when I first saw it. But a funny thing happened about six months later…I saw it on a CV. I gave that person another look! So I guess it works to some extent. Typical caveats apply. It’s only geared toward the financial side of the job and it’s mostly an Apptio certification. So it’s a start.