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 have been eavesdropping on this list for a few weeks because I am
interested in getting a foothold as a technical writer. I have an
engineering degree, and have experience using some of the software
tools of your trade - FrameMaker, Word, and Adobe Creative Suite. In
addition, I have authored a few documents and websites for a former
employer. That's where I discovered my interest in writing and
illustrating.
My goal is to become qualified to get contract work that will keep me
occupied well into my retirement years - which is only a few short
years away. I live in the Minneapolis area, and there seem to be plenty
of opportunities for tech writers in the job listings. Most of the jobs
require skills and experience that I've not yet had. Here's my question
for you experts:
What should I do to prepare myself to be qualified for tech writing
work? Should I go back to school and get a minor in Technical
Communications? Should I get certificate from an on-line institution
(Brooklyn College has a certificate program - in fact they have links
to TECHWR archives)? What might be an appropriate career path for a
mature, versatile person like myself?
I would be very interested in hearing advice or experiences from any
one who has time to respond. And very appreciative, too. Thanks!
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