Is aiming for PM Role viable given my 1.5 years experience as a software developer but two year gap in a technical role?
A little background: I graduated with a BS in CS in 2022, immediately started working for a small company as a junior software developer, but then had to relocate and subsequently quit my job due to needing to take care of a family member in a different city after only working a year and a half. My first company straight out of college didn’t allow its employees to work remotely. I then ended up quickly finding an admin role for a small business while taking care of my family member for a little over two years.
Long story short, the situation changed and I’m no longer needing to stay in the small town to take care of family anymore. I’m wanting to re-enter the tech field, but I’m worried that my large gap is considered a red-flag in the majority of recruiters’ eyes. Since the market has shifted drastically in the past 4 years or so, I’m not sure what direction to go anymore.
I’ve had some friends in the industry suggest going for a Project Manager role. I’m all for getting any certifications that will boost my chances. Is that considered too lofty a goal? Feeling a bit lost at the moment, any advice would be appreciated. Thanks everyone.
Edit: PM to Project Manager for clarify