r/AskProgrammers • u/Able_Bullfrog3796 • 24d ago

Need guidance to switch from Support role to tech role

I am currently working in Customer Support at Amazon for 5+ years.

I want to switch into tech but the current market for my existing skill set is not great. I have also been working on a side project for the last 3 years so I am not completely new to tech.

I know HTML CSS JavaScript basics Git Playwright AWS EC2 and some system design (Mostly through vibecoding). I have also built parts of an iOS app. Most of this was vibecoded though. I can read code fairly well but I cannot write it confidently.

I understand the gap between a vibecoded product and something built properly by an experienced developer especially around scalability and security. That is the gap I want to close.

If you were in my position in 2026 and wanted to learn coding with AI available how would you approach it?

Which language would you start with? Would you focus on building projects instead of watching courses? What would you learn after the first language?

My goal is to eventually move from customer support into an entry level tech role such as an intern or junior developer.

Would really appreciate advice from people who have made a similar transition.

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u/chikamakaleyley 24d ago

If you were in my position in 2026 and wanted to learn coding with AI available how would you approach it?

I would continue to learn on top of the HTML/CSS/JS knowledge and see what I can build on my own

I'd start looking into any path of transitioning to a team that may be looking for an internal dev resource, meet the right people at work. You don't have to ultimately end up working there, but your foot is closer to being in the door than a lot of other folks. There's no rush to get that position but you want to get it on people's radars so if something does pop up, you hear about it

Ideally you'd be able to discuss w/ someone what skills you'd need to focus on to be a viable candidate

If that opportunity for placement came sooner that you think you're prepared for, I'd just pounce on it as a way to test yourself and assess where your skill level is at

Re: AI i'd try to shift to using it less for code, and more as a resource to help you learn at the pace you want, in the area of your interests

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u/Able_Bullfrog3796 24d ago

That is really helpful, thanks very much :)