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Software Developer with 13+ Years of Experience Seeking Leadership Transition: What Courses/Certifications Are Recommended?

Aasif Ahmed Khan

Aasif Ahmed Khan   | Answer  |Ask -

Tech Career Expert - Answered on Sep 09, 2024

Aasif is a mechanical engineer with 16 years of experience, specialising in maintenance, troubleshooting, planning, training and creating documents. He currently works as a manager at Rashtriya Chemical and Fertilizers Ltd in Mumbai.
Aasif is passionate about guiding students and aspiring engineers as they aim to choose the right educational paths, including courses and colleges.
He holds a bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering from the Indore Institute of Science & Technology in Indore and is currently pursuing a master's degree in thermal and fluid engineering at the Indian Institute of Technology, Mumbai.... more
Asked by Anonymous - Sep 09, 2024Hindi
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Hello Sir, Currently I am carrying 13+ years of experience in software industry and leading a team of 10 software developers. I would like to transition into leadership/project management roles in software industry. Could you please share your recommendations on the list of courses/certifications to upskill myself that would help me transition to the leadership roles? Thanks in advance!

Ans: These certifications and courses can help you build the necessary skills and knowledge to transition into leadership roles.

1-Agile and Scrum Certifications
Certified ScrumMaster (CSM): Offered by Scrum Alliance, this certification is ideal if you’re working in an Agile environment.
PMI Agile Certified Practitioner (PMI-ACP): This certification covers various Agile methodologies and is offered by PMI.
SAFe Agilist Certification: For those working in large-scale Agile environments.

2-IT Management and Leadership Certifications
Certified Information Technology Manager (CITM): This certification focuses on IT management and leadership skills.
Certified Software Development Professional (CSDP): Offered by IEEE, this certification is for experienced software development practitioners.
ITIL Foundation Certification: This certification covers IT service management and is widely recognized.

3-General Management and Leadership Courses
AMA Certified Professional in Management: This certification covers professional effectiveness, relationship management, business acumen, and analytical intelligence.
Leadership and Management Courses on Udemy: Courses like “Software Engineering: From Developer to Tech Lead” can be very useful.
edX: Provides courses from institutions like MIT and Harvard on management and leadership.
LinkedIn Learning: Offers a wide range of courses on leadership, project management, and technical skills.
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Dear Sir, I am in job from July 2003 and have over 20 years of experience, In this 20 years of job, first 16 years i have been in sales and distribution, and last 4 years i have been in operations (Supply chain, addressing and solving customer issue), I feel some how i am lacking in leadership skills related to IT field, as this are in demand now. Can u please help me in providing and suggesting any good course to update myself in this domain. I am MBA pass out in 2003 and did Executive Management program last year with one of the reputed B school in India...
Ans: Since you have already completed an Executive Management program, consider building on that foundation with these specialized courses.

Also, look for programs offered by reputable institutions or professional organizations that provide certifications recognized in the IT industry. Online learning platforms like Coursera, edX, and LinkedIn Learning offer a variety of courses in these areas.

You may consider pursuing certifications like Project Management Professional (PMP) or Certified ScrumMaster (CSM). These certifications are valuable for individuals leading projects in IT.

Toy can focusing on enhancing your general leadership and communication skills through courses that focus on effective communication, team building, and leadership in a technology-driven environment.

In the meanwhile, gain a foundational understanding of AI and ML to stay informed about emerging technologies. Many online platforms offer introductory courses on these topics.

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Shekhar

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Leadership, HR Expert - Answered on May 09, 2024

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Hi Sir, I have 12 years of experience, I have started as a team lead and now advancing to be a manager soon with a new organization, but I do not have enough expertise and looking for a starting point. Kindly suggest on leadership and managerial courses (including even the required softskills). I would appreciate 1 to 1 coaching as well.
Ans: Congratulations on your career advancement! Transitioning into a managerial role can be both exciting and challenging, but there are numerous courses and resources available to help you develop the leadership and managerial skills necessary for success. Here are some suggestions for leadership and managerial courses, as well as options for 1-to-1 coaching. MDPs provide comprehensive training in various aspects of management, including leadership development, team building, communication skills, and conflict resolution. Look for programs offered by reputable business schools or professional training organizations. Many business schools offer executive education programs specifically designed for mid-career professionals transitioning into leadership roles. These programs cover topics such as strategic leadership, organizational behavior, change management, and decision-making. Obtaining a PMP certification can enhance your project management skills and prepare you for effectively managing teams and projects in your managerial role. The certification covers areas such as project planning, execution, monitoring, and closing. Consider hiring an executive coach who specializes in leadership development and managerial effectiveness. An executive coach can provide personalized guidance, feedback, and support to help you navigate the challenges of your new role and accelerate your professional growth. Seek out experienced leaders within your organization or industry who can serve as mentors and provide valuable insights and advice as you transition into your managerial role. A mentorship relationship can be a valuable source of support and learning throughout your career journey. Many organizations offer professional development programs that include 1-to-1 coaching or mentoring as part of their leadership development initiatives. Take advantage of these opportunities to receive personalized guidance and support from experienced leaders within your organization. By investing in your leadership and managerial development through courses, workshops, and coaching, you'll be better equipped to excel in your new role and drive positive outcomes for your team and organization. Remember to approach your learning journey with an open mind, a willingness to learn and adapt, and a commitment to continuous improvement.

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Asked by Anonymous - Dec 02, 2025Hindi
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My married ex still texts me for comfort. Because of him, I am unable to move on. He makes me feel guilty by saying he got married out of family pressure. His dad is a cardiac patient and mom is being treated for cancer. He comforts me by saying he will get separated soon and we will get married because he only loves me. We have been in a relationship for 14 years and despite everything we tried, his parents refused to accept me, so he chose to get married to someone who understands our situation. I don't know when he will separate from his wife. She knows about us too but she comes from a traditional family. She also confirmed there is no physical intimacy between them. I trust him, but is it worth losing my youth for him? Honestly, I am worried and very confused.
Ans: Dear Anonymous,
I understand how difficult it is to let go of a relationship you have built from scratch, but is it really how you want to continue? It really seems to be going nowhere. His parents are already in bad health and he married someone else for their happiness. Does it seem like he will be able to leave her? So many people’s happiness and lives depend on this one decision. I think it’s about time you and your BF have a clear conversation about the same. If he can’t give a proper timeline, please try to understand his situation. But also make sure he understands yours and maybe rethink this equation. It really isn’t healthy. You deserve a love you can have wholly, and not just in pieces, and in the shadows.

Hope this helps

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Mayank

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IIT-JEE, NEET-UG, SAT, CLAT, CA, CS Exam Expert - Answered on Dec 04, 2025

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My son will be appearing for JEE Main & JEE Advanced 2026 and will participate in JoSAA Counselling 2026. I request clarification regarding the GEN-EWS certificate date requirement for next year. I have already applied for an EWS certificate for current year 2025, and the application is under process. However, I am unsure whether this certificate will be accepted during JoSAA 2026, or whether candidates will be required to submit a fresh certificate for FY 2026–27 (issued on or after 1 April 2026). My concern is that if JoSAA requires a certificate issued after 1 April 2026, students will have only 1–1.5 months to complete the entire procedure, which is difficult considering normal government processing timelines. Also, during current JEE form filling, students are asked to upload a GEN-EWS certificate issued on or after 1 April 2025, or an application acknowledgement. This has created confusion among parents regarding which year’s certificate will finally be valid at the time of counselling. I request your kind guidance on: Which GEN-EWS certificate will be accepted for JoSAA Counselling 2026 — a certificate for FY 2025–26 (issued after 1 April 2025), or a new certificate for FY 2026–27 (issued after 1 April 2026)?
Ans: Hi
You need not worry about the EWS certificate. Even if you apply for the next year's certificate on 1 Apr 2026, the second session of JEE MAINS will still be held, followed by JEE ADVANCED, which will be held in May. JOSAA starts in June. so you will have 2 months in hand for fresh EWS certificate.

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