Career Change for Teachers: The Industries That Want Teachers
If you’re reading this, you’re probably at your wit’s end with teaching. Maybe you love working with kids but can’t handle the long hours, unrealistic expectations, or lack of respect. Perhaps you feel stuck, underpaid, and exhausted, wondering if you have any other career options. I’ve been there. The good news? There is a whole world of options out there. Career change for teachers is very possible.
Transitioning out of the classroom can feel overwhelming, but I want to assure you that it’s 100% possible. I left teaching and found a fulfilling career outside of education, and you can too. The key is knowing where to look and how to market your transferable skills. Let’s explore the industries actively seeking former teachers and how you can make your move.
Industries actively seeking former teachers
There are companies out there looking for professionals with strong communication, leadership, and organizational skills—everything you’ve honed as a teacher. Here are some of the best industries for former educators:
1. EdTech (Educational Technology)
EdTech companies design digital learning tools, curriculum software, and classroom technology. They need former teachers for roles such as instructional designers, customer success managers, trainers, and curriculum developers. Who better to shape educational products than someone who has actually used them?
2. Corporate Training & Learning and Development (L&D)
Your experience teaching students directly translates into training adults. Many corporations hire trainers and L&D specialists to develop training materials, facilitate workshops, and onboard employees. If you love the idea of teaching but want to escape the school system, this might be your calling.
3. Human Resources (HR)
As a teacher, you’re skilled in conflict resolution, mentoring, and communication—perfect for HR roles. Companies need HR specialists, talent development professionals, and recruiters who can support employees, create training programs, and handle hiring processes.
4. Instructional Design
If you enjoy creating lesson plans, structuring learning experiences, and designing curriculum, instructional design is a fantastic fit. Instructional designers build corporate training programs, online courses, and digital learning tools. Many former teachers find this career rewarding and financially beneficial.
5. Sales and Customer Success
Teachers make great sales representatives, particularly in EdTech and other education-adjacent industries. Your ability to communicate, persuade, and build relationships is invaluable. Many former teachers also thrive in customer success roles, helping clients use products effectively.
6. Nonprofits & Educational Consulting
If you’re passionate about making an impact, nonprofit organizations and consulting firms often hire former educators for program management, advocacy, and community outreach roles. These positions allow you to use your teaching background while working toward social change.
Skills these industries value from teachers
You might worry that you don’t have the “right” experience for corporate jobs, but I promise—you do. Employers in these industries value skills that you already possess. Here are just a few of them:
- Communication & Presentation Skills – You’ve spent years presenting complex information in an engaging way. That’s exactly what corporate trainers, salespeople, and HR professionals do.
- Curriculum Development & Lesson Planning – Instructional design and corporate training roles thrive on these skills.
- Leadership & Team Management – You’ve managed classrooms, mediated conflicts, and led school initiatives. That translates to leadership, project management, and HR roles.
- Problem-Solving & Adaptability – You’re used to thinking on your feet and adjusting to unexpected challenges—something businesses need in almost every industry.
- Data Analysis & Assessment – You’ve assessed student progress and made data-driven decisions; companies love employees who can analyze performance metrics and suggest improvements.
If you have these skills on your resume but hear nothing but crickets, you might be using teacher language instead of corporate language. Teachers have hundreds of transferable skills, but you have to make them easy to understand for people outside the classroom.
If this sounds like your resume, take a deep dive into transferable skills and how to put them on a resume.
Next steps for your career change
Making a career change can feel overwhelming, but the key is to take strategic steps toward your new path. The Career Change for Teachers Guide breaks down career options in detail, helping you match your strengths and experience to real-world job opportunities.
Inside, you’ll find:
- A breakdown of top career options for former teachers
- Key transferable skills and how to present them on your resume
- Real job descriptions and salary expectations
- Step-by-step strategies to make your career pivot
Want more step-by-step help? The Career Transition Workbook for Teachers is designed to walk you through each stage of the process. This workbook includes:
- Self-assessment tools to help you identify the best career path for you
- Resume and cover letter templates tailored for transitioning teachers
- Interview preparation strategies to help you confidently communicate your skills
- Networking tips and job search techniques to connect with the right people
With the right resources, you can make a successful transition into a fulfilling new career. Get started today with the Career Change for Teachers Guide and the Career Transition Workbook for Teachers, and take the first step toward a brighter future!
