‘I’ve regained so much self-confidence here’
Having started several different courses, Tina Raghoebar (42) came across Typisch IT about a year and a half ago. There, she undertook the career-change programme to become a Tech Supporter, a six-week course supported by Brainport Development. Tina is now thoroughly enjoying her work in IT and looks back on an enlightening training programme. ‘I’ve grown so much here.’
Tina had tried several times to complete a home-study course, ranging from graphic design to pharmacy assistant. ‘I struggled to find the right learning method and, as a result, thought that learning wasn’t for me.’ And due to problems at home, things became increasingly difficult for Tina. ‘I no longer felt at home at work and decided to change course. As a result, I found myself temporarily out of work and started looking for structure and a new direction.’ Through the UWV, she eventually ended up with a job coach. And that changed everything.
A confidence boost
‘After a year of intensive support, he suggested Typisch IT, and that immediately piqued my interest. I’d actually discussed IT before with my niece, who works in the sector herself. A whole new world opened up to me during our conversation. I knew straight away that IT was a good fit for me, because it’s a world that’s constantly changing. So you’re always learning, and that’s exactly what keeps me on my toes.’ After an initial introductory meeting in the summer of 2024, she was certain she wanted to start the Typisch IT programme. The six-week retraining course began in October. ‘It was tough, because you had to cram a lot of material. All the concepts were new to me.’ She also found the exams very nerve-wracking. ‘But I did pass them. So despite the stress, that gave my self-confidence a massive boost.’
Tina looks back on a period in which she grew both professionally and personally. ‘I’d been stuck at home for so long in a difficult situation. Now I was coming out of my shell. It felt as though I could really take part in life again. Because as well as the course covering a lot of information, I also gained a lot socially from it. For example, I enjoyed studying with the other students. It was lovely to learn together and help one another. It was a new field for everyone, and that created a bond.’
Energy from work
After watching dozens of videos, reading lots of books, attending three lessons a week and taking part in role-plays, Tina was proud to receive her diploma. And straight afterwards, she found a job at Summa. ‘I got to know them during a speed-dating session with companies. After all those short interviews, I was completely exhausted and I told them during the session that I needed a break. ‘Well, shall we do that then?’, they said. And so we spent quite a while standing outside chatting. I knew straight away:
‘This workplace is good for my wellbeing.’
In October, she was still at the start of her course; in January, she started her job. ‘I work at the service desk, so I handle all calls with IT-related queries. I really feel that I can always help someone.’ Tina is considering her next step, possibly moving into functional management. ‘Because this workplace gives me a huge boost.’
Finally, Tina has a message for others who are still unsure about undertaking the reskilling programme. ‘Just go for it – it’s brilliant that this opportunity exists. At Typisch IT and the industry partners involved, they take a broader view of a person. It’s not about the qualifications you need, but about your attitude and your ability to take that first step. You’ll pick up the technical knowledge on the job. For me, that was – and still is – worth its weight in gold.’
For more information about Typisch IT, click on the link below.
Further information about Typisch IT