Annika’s Inspiring Journey from Healthcare to Tech Entrepreneur
4.12.2024
At kood/Jõhvi, every alumnus has a unique story. Today, we share the inspiring journey of Annika Tamm, a former healthcare professional who pivoted her career into the world of tech and entrepreneurship. From coding challenges to launching a startup, Annika demonstrates how curiosity and resilience can pave the way for incredible opportunities.
From hospitals to coding adventures
Annika’s career began in one of the most rewarding but emotionally challenging professions that exists, healthcare. However, her passion for creativity and problem-solving led her to explore new possibilities.
“When I moved back to Estonia, I saw an ad for kood/Jõhvi. Most of my friends were already somehow connected to the startup world, programming, or design. The idea of bringing design to life through coding was both challenging and exciting,” she recalls. What sealed the deal for Annika was the flexibility to manage her time and participate remotely, a perfect fit for someone looking to balance learning with other commitments.
Peer-to-peer learning: a launchpad for leadership and growth
The peer-to-peer learning model at kood/Jõhvi played an important role in shaping Annika’s entrepreneurial journey.
- Self-driven success: “No one will push you further than you’re willing to push yourself,” she emphasizes. This mindset helped Annika master time management and leadership, skills she now applies daily as a startup founder.
- Stepping out of the comfort zone: Workshops and hackathons encouraged her to network and build meaningful relationships, a cornerstone of her entrepreneurial success.
Building a startup: securing IoT connections
Annika’s company addresses a critical problem in today’s tech landscape: network security for IoT* devices.
“We’re developing a system that helps businesses monitor and secure their network connections, including IoT devices, which are often overlooked in terms of security,” Annika explains.
Her team (also kood/Jõhvi students) focuses on enterprises managing large, complex networks, providing solutions that enhance security while simplifying traffic management. A chance conversation with a potential client became the turning point for her startup, proving the power of persistence and adaptability.
Words of wisdom from Annika
Considering a career shift into tech?
1. The more you learn, the more you realize how much you don’t know. Surround yourself with like-minded people, stay curious, and never stop asking questions. Learning in tech is a lifelong journey.
2. Start small but stay consistent. You can’t have it all at once. This is something I wish I had practiced more from the beginning.
3. Surround yourself with supportive people. There were many times I wanted to throw in the towel, but the encouragement I received from others kept me motivated.
Considering starting your own company?
1. Get a mentor or find a supportive community. Sometimes, you just need someone to listen to your struggles or offer an outside perspective.
2. Be organised. Use a planner to block out time for specific tasks, like replying to emails or checking LinkedIn. Having things scheduled will remind you to get them done. Avoid postponing tasks unnecessarily.
3. A good friend of mine once said, “Don’t postpone hard decisions.” That advice has stuck with me.
Learning to pause and observe
For Annika, the most valuable takeaway wasn’t just technical – it was learning to take a step back.
“The ability to pause, analyse the situation, and not rush into things has saved me so much time and energy,” she shares. This approach, honed during her time at kood/Jõhvi, now serves her well in both her personal and professional life.
Looking ahead with gratitude
Reflecting on her time at kood/Jõhvi, Annika is grateful for the supportive community and networking opportunities. “Your network is your net worth,” she says, crediting the school for fostering connections that have been instrumental in her success.
A Message to Future Learners
To anyone considering a leap into the world of tech, Annika says: “Be patient, be an active listener, and trust the process. It’s a lifelong journey, but one that’s worth every step.”
Ready to take the next step? Our next Sprint is approaching soon – apply now!
*IoT – the Internet of Things, refers to a network of physical devices, vehicles, appliances, and other physical objects that are embedded with sensors, software, and network connectivity, allowing them to collect and share data.