Please advice for a better Career Growth

[Ganesh Jee]

I have been working in an MNC since 1 year in a 2nd level support. I have been learning and working on technologies like Unix, Perl, Shell Scripting, SQL and PL/SQL. I have also familiar with JAVA/J2EE(but no experience) and planning to complete SCJP soon. I have always been interested in programming and willing to work as a Developer. Can I be able to grow if I continue working in support? or Can I be able to get Java Developer role as I dont have any experience in Java technologies? or Can be able to get a Developer role on the technologies which I have been working( Unix, Perl, Shell Scripting, SQL and PL/SQL)?. Please advice on what the best I can do for a better career growth.

[arulk pillai]

It depends on what you do in support. Do you code? The only way to become a programmer is by writing code.

[Ganesh Jee]

Yes I do. We used to code on HTML,Perl and Shell Scripting for automation and enhancement in project. I used to practice on JAVA/J2EE as well by writing codes whenever I get time.

[Sai Surya]

Did you try for any intra company roles? Like may be the manager of another team need some entry level programmers? Try talking to your HR or resource manager whether they can give you an opportunity as a developer. Since you're on support role on Shell scritipting, SQL etc these surely involve coding. That means you not far away from programming just you need to brush up your Java. Moreover you already completed an year on this role. Try for another team in the same company before trying for new job. Good luck!

[Ganesh Jee]

Thanks. Let me try!

[arulk pillai]

As Sai had suggested, try to get a foot in the door with Java development. Try your current company first, if no luck look outside. In the meantime keep at improving your Java skills and knowledge.