UPDATE: In a surprising shift, Kanish Shah, a 26-year-old software engineer from Milpitas, California, has found career success at Walmart after facing multiple rejections from major tech companies. His journey highlights the changing landscape of tech employment and the hidden opportunities outside of Big Tech.
Just announced, Shah’s story reveals how he transitioned from aspiring to work at giants like Google and Apple to becoming a full-time employee at Walmart in June 2023. After moving to the U.S. in August 2021 to pursue a master’s degree in computer science at the University of Southern California, Shah’s internship search proved challenging, with over hundreds of applications and fewer than 15 callbacks.
Shah’s experience underscores the fierce competition for coveted tech positions. Despite his efforts, he faced rejection from all the major players. However, a breakthrough came when he applied for a software engineering role at Walmart, leading to an internship that started in May 2022.
“I treated the internship like an extended interview,” Shah stated, emphasizing his proactive approach of soliciting feedback and building relationships within the company. His strategy paid off, securing him a full-time role and a chance to contribute to Walmart’s ongoing transformation into a tech-driven organization.
The urgency of Shah’s experience is reflective of a broader trend impacting job seekers in tech. As layoffs and hiring freezes continue across the industry, his success at Walmart serves as a beacon of hope for many. Walmart is evolving rapidly, integrating AI and technology into its core operations, thus offering employees like Shah the chance to engage in meaningful work that drives significant change.
Shah expressed satisfaction with Walmart’s culture, noting that the work-life balance has significantly improved his quality of life. He typically works from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. and enjoys weekends with family and friends. Located just a 25-minute commute from Walmart’s Sunnyvale office, he appreciates the amenities offered, including a gym and diverse dining options in the cafeteria.
His story serves as a crucial reminder: success in tech is not limited to the most recognizable brands. “High-impact work can be found in many environments,” he advises other young professionals. He encourages them to remain open to opportunities, highlighting that his current compensation is in the six figures, dispelling the myth that only Big Tech can offer lucrative salaries.
As the tech landscape shifts, Shah’s journey is a testament to resilience and adaptability. His experience encourages job seekers to explore beyond traditional paths and embrace the vast opportunities available in the tech sector.
What’s next? As the tech industry continues to evolve, job seekers and employers alike must adapt. With Walmart setting a precedent for integrating technology into retail, others may follow suit, further diversifying career opportunities in the tech field.
This story is part of a growing trend that highlights the importance of remaining flexible and open-minded in the quest for a fulfilling career in technology. As the landscape changes, so too do the pathways to success.
