What do you do if you lack experience in Operations Research but want to start a career?

1 Learn the fundamentals

One of the first steps to start a career in OR is to learn the fundamental concepts and methods of the field. You can do this by taking online courses, reading books and articles, or watching videos and podcasts. There are many free and low-cost resources available on the internet that can teach you the basics of OR, such as linear programming, network analysis, simulation, optimization, and decision analysis. You can also enroll in a certificate or degree program in OR or a related discipline, such as statistics, computer science, or engineering, if you want to pursue a formal education.

2 Gain practical skills

Another important step to start a career in OR is to gain practical skills that can help you apply the theory to real-world problems. You can do this by working on projects, participating in competitions, or joining a community of practice. You can find many online platforms that offer project-based learning opportunities, such as Coursera, edX, or Kaggle. You can also join online or local groups that organize events, workshops, or hackathons related to OR, such as INFORMS, OR Society, or Meetup. These activities can help you develop your technical, analytical, and problem-solving skills, as well as expand your network and exposure.

3 Showcase your portfolio

A third step to start a career in OR is to showcase your portfolio of work and achievements. You can do this by creating a personal website, blog, or social media profile that displays your projects, publications, awards, or certifications. You can also use platforms like GitHub, LinkedIn, or Medium to share your code, data, or insights. You should highlight your skills, knowledge, and value proposition as an OR professional, and use relevant keywords, tags, and hashtags to increase your visibility and reach. You should also update your resume and cover letter to reflect your OR experience and qualifications.

4 Apply for opportunities

A final step to start a career in OR is to apply for opportunities that match your interests, goals, and abilities. You can do this by searching for job openings, internships, or fellowships in OR or related fields, such as data science, analytics, or consulting. You can use online platforms like Indeed, Glassdoor, or ZipRecruiter to find and filter relevant positions. You can also leverage your network and connections to get referrals, recommendations, or introductions. You should prepare for the application process by researching the employer, the role, and the industry, and by practicing your interview and presentation skills.

5 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?