The growing demand for technology professionals is creating new career opportunities for graduates from non-technical backgrounds, with Manipur’s UlenkhombaKonthoujam emerging as an example of how upskilling can accelerate career growth. The 25-year-old Mathematics graduate from Delhi University has increased his salary by over 250 per cent within two years after transitioning into the data analytics sector through Scaler’s Data Science and Machine Learning programme.
A resident of Imphal East, Ulen initially prepared for government examinations after graduation. However, following the death of his father in 2021, he became the sole earning member of his family, supporting his mother and two younger sisters. Seeking financial stability and long-term career growth, he explored Data Science after being introduced to the field by his cousin and enrolled in Scaler’sprogramme despite having no prior technical background.
The programme equipped him with programming, machine learning and data analytics skills through structured learning, practical projects, mentorship and interview preparation. In 2024, he secured his first role as a Data Analyst at Reveal HealthTech before moving to global commerce media and advertising technology company Criteo in the same role, recording a salary growth of more than 250 per cent in just two years.
Reflecting on his journey, Ulen said consistency, project-building and continuous learning played a key role in his career transformation. He encouraged aspiring professionals to remain committed for at least a year, saying sustained effort eventually opens up better career opportunities.
In Imphal, Ulen’s success highlights the growing relevance of digital skills and professional upskilling among the city’s youth. As companies across India continue to recruit talent in data analytics, artificial intelligence and machine learning, such success stories are expected to encourage more graduates from Manipur to pursue technology careers, strengthening the state’s participation in the country’s expanding digital economy while reducing dependence on conventional employment avenues.
