IT graduate Bhavana Dixit's path to a thriving career in cloud technology wasn't a straight line. After 18 months working as a Curriculum Associate at Geniebook, an edtech company, Bhavana faced a layoff. While her role developing unique math questions & diagrams for students, and supporting overseas teachers navigate the Singaporean curriculum was rewarding, the layoff spurred her to reassess her career goals.
"I wanted to use more of my IT degree," Bhavana explained, "instead of mixing technology and education," and applied for roles in the tech industry. But her job search was met with a series of rejections, leaving her feeling disheartened. Just as she began to lose hope, she came across a post on LinkedIn that led her to the applications for the Google Skills Ignition Traineeship. "It was the last day to apply," Bhavana recalls, "but I took a leap of faith." as she applied for the Professional Cloud Architect track.
The program proved to be both challenging and transformative. While the initial three months of external training were demanding, Bhavana's resilience and determination shone through. "It was all new to me," she admits, "but I knew I had to keep going." Even when faced with personal challenges and a steep learning curve during her nine-month on-the-job training at Google, Bhavana persevered, approaching her supportive manager for guidance so that she could meet her targets.
"Google gave me a chance to prove myself," she says. "It was my one and only chance to move ahead in the technology sector." And prove herself she did. Bhavana thrived in the collaborative environment, contributing to innovative projects like the Google AI Bar, which used Gemini to create customised drinks. This experience, coupled with the program's career readiness workshops, which she describes as eye-opening, boosted her confidence - Bhavana says she went into the traineeship as an introvert and left as someone who felt comfortable speaking to new people. She was now equipped with the skills and network to navigate the job market successfully.
Today, Bhavana works as a Cloud Consultant at Point Star, where she leverages her expertise in Google Workspace and AppSheet. "It's a similar role to what I was doing in the Traineeship," she says, "and I feel lucky that my training aligned so well with this opportunity." Reflecting on her journey, Bhavana emphasises the importance of perseverance, seeking help when needed, and embracing new challenges.
"This program changed my trajectory completely," she says. Bhavana's story is a testament to the power of re-skilling and the impact of supportive learning environments. Her advice to others considering a similar path? "Open yourself up, talk to your mentors, and never give up on your dreams."
