Entry-Level Positions For Aspiring Edtech Content Program Managers
For entry-level program management in edtech, consider project manager or associate program manager roles, or customer-facing positions like sales or customer support. Alternatively, experience as a teacher provides "really transferable skills" in project management and problem-solving, while a software engineering background offers valuable technical skills for transitioning into technical program or product management roles.
Project Management, Communication, Problem-Solving, Entry-Level, Educational Technology
Advizer Information
Name
Job Title
Company
Undergrad
Grad Programs
Majors
Industries
Job Functions
Traits
Sasha Ban
Senior Content Program Manager
Leading Edtech Company
Barnard College
UCLA MBA
Biology & Related Sciences
Education, Technology
Operations and Project Management
Greek Life Member, Student Athlete
Video Highlights
1. Entry-level program management roles (e.g., project manager, associate program manager) are available for those interested in non-technical program management.
2. Customer-facing roles such as sales or customer support can also serve as entry points into the field.
3. Teaching experience is highly valuable, providing transferable skills in project management, communication, and problem-solving, and offering insight into the educational landscape relevant to EdTech.
Transcript
What entry-level positions in this field might an undergraduate college student consider?
If you're interested in program management within the tech industry, there are a couple of directions you can go if you want to be a non-technical program manager. Some roles, like the one I have, are similar to project manager roles. These are often more entry-level or associate program manager positions.
There are also individuals who enter the field through customer-facing roles, such as sales or customer support. In the ed-tech space, we also see many people come from the classroom.
If you're interested in educational technology or working in education, a school-based role is valuable. This could be as a teacher or a teacher's assistant. You'll learn about pedagogy, content, and the educational landscape.
You will also develop transferable skills in project management, people management, communication, resourcefulness, and problem-solving. I strongly recommend teaching for a few years if you're interested in a career in education.
If you're interested in tech but want a technical program management role, for example, as a computer science major, software engineering is a great starting point. There are many paths you can take from being an engineer.
Some engineers stay in engineering roles, becoming staff engineers. Others move into technical program manager or product management roles. Just as teaching provides fundamental pedagogical skills, engineering provides fundamental technical skills that can be leveraged in many ways.