Career tips from seasoned ACS members, Fellows, and leaders

Explore early and stay curious 

No one has it all figured out at the beginning. Many members said their career paths only became clear through trying different things.

“Many of us don’t know exactly what we want to do at first,” said Willis Lin, Co-Chair of the ACS Townsville Chapter. “Exploration helps you discover your values, what work excites you, and the kind of people you thrive with.”

Curiosity is what keeps that momentum going. Vinh Bui, Committee Member of the ACS Queensland Gold Coast Chapter, added, “Embrace technology not just as a tool, but as a language to connect diverse domains.”

Say yes to the unknown 

Opportunities often don’t look perfect. That’s why calculated risks are so important. Stepping outside your comfort zone can take you further than you expected, especially when it comes to leadership and personal growth.

“Some of the best career moves come from saying yes to things that are outside your comfort zone,” said Annie Ryan, Chair of the ACS Canberra Branch. “And always invest in your network, it’s your greatest resource.”

Seek mentors, not just answers 

Mentors can accelerate growth at any stage. They challenge your thinking, open doors, and help you navigate the moments where you feel stuck.

“Find a mentor and ask for advice,” said Dr Geoff Augutis FACS, Chair of the ACS Bundaberg Chapter. “Your problems probably aren’t unique, someone out there has solved them and is willing to help.”

Rajib Rana, Co-Chair of the ACS Downs and South West Chapter, agreed: “Surround yourself with people who challenge and inspire you. Mentors can help you take on high-risk, high-reward projects that lead to real growth.”

Don’t forget your soft skills 

Technical skills might land you the job, but your communication, empathy, and leadership are what help you thrive in it.

“Value soft skills,” said Karen Keynes, ACS Member. “Understand what drives you, triggers you, and lights you up. If you can do that for yourself, it will allow you to do it for others.”

Rajib Rana added, “It’s not just about what you build, it’s about who you build it with.”

Plan your career but stay flexible 

Career paths don’t always follow a straight line. And in tech, they rarely do.

“Don’t stress if your career isn’t linear,” said Mardé Helbig, Committee Member of the ACS Queensland Branch Executive Committee. “ICT is a wide field, you’ll find something you’re passionate about.”

Marilyn Wells, ACS Branch Executive Committee Member and former Head of the School of ICT at CQU, encourages professionals to reflect as they grow: 
“Every skill is transferable. Identify why. Observe what your managers do well, and how you’d do it differently.”

Stay curious and stay sharp 

The tech industry moves fast. Keeping your skills sharp and your eyes open is the key to staying relevant.

“The next five years will bring more growth than the last 25,” said Chris Jeffery, ACS Fellow. “It’s important to remain up-to-date with emerging technologies and how they apply to your career and organisation.”

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Whether you’re building your foundation or refining your leadership, ACS members agree that your career will keep evolving, as long as you keep exploring, learning, and connecting. Ready to sharpen your skills? Map your capabilities with MySFIA and use Skillsoft to upskill with targeted learning, both included in your ACS membership.

What advice would you pass on to people starting out in tech? Share your insights and help guide the next generation by filling out this form.