From nursing to tech: Rosemary’s transformative career shift

Prodapt recently expanded its nearshore operations center in Panama, and for Rosemary de la Espriella, one of the earliest Prodaptians in Panama, “it’s been highly rewarding to see the team and the operations grow.”?

“Hard to believe it’s four years since Prodapt started in Panama, amidst the pandemic, with just 15 members. Today, we’ve grown to several hundreds,” she reminisces, while taking in splendid views of the hills that the office offers.??

For Rosemary, this journey has been transformative. Prodapt marks her first foray into tech, and a significant shift from her previous job working as a nurse for seven years in Florida.?

Rosemary now serves as Technical Support Team Lead and juggles work responsibilities with the demands of being a mother of three.??

She shares her experience navigating two vastly different sectors, seeing Prodapt Panama grow, her proudest moment as a Prodaptian, and offers recommendations for first-time visitors to her beautiful country.??

Your career shift from nursing to IT is quite impressive! What triggered the move??

I moved countries for personal reasons. Also, nursing is very different in Panama, as compared to the US.? IT offers way better work-life balance, more opportunities. Before the shift, I pursued certifications in IT. The experience I gained as a nurse is invaluable, and many skills from nursing have translated well in my current role. For instance, the ability to manage stressful situations, strong communication, problem-solving, and a focus on helping others. In nursing, you’re often faced with critical decisions, and that sense of responsibility and quick thinking has helped me lead teams effectively in IT.?

How has your experience in tech been?

"At Prodapt, it’s been a journey of growth. I’ve had the opportunity to witness and contribute to the expansion of the team/project, which has been incredibly rewarding. My favorite part is dealing with people, their different cultures, and personalities."

I felt really proud here when a client requested me to lead PTS (Premium Technical Support), where we handle complex customer issues beyond basic modem troubleshooting. This was an emotional moment for me. It felt like a true recognition of my hard work and the dedication of my team. It was a validation of not only my capabilities, but also my passion to grow within Prodapt, which is a growing company. It showed me how far I had come since making a career transition from nursing. That moment gave me the confidence that I could lead effectively and make an impact. The learning and experience I’ve gained here have pushed me to grow as a leader and team player, teaching me the importance of collaboration and innovation.

What advice would you give to someone considering moving to a new country or switching careers?

My advice would be to stay open to change and be persistent. Be prepared to step out of your comfort zone, and trust that your skills and experiences will always serve you in new ways. Surround yourself with a supportive community, coworkers, friends and/or family, and never stop learning—you’ll find that the journey is well worth.

What is it about Prodapt’s culture that you appreciate the most?

"I love the family-like environment and the flexibility that Prodapt offers. When I returned from maternity leave, and while still in the breastfeeding stage, it was challenging to store milk as it needed refrigeration. Prodapt helped by adjusting to my needs, making the transition back-to-work smoother."

?I’ve always felt valued and supported here in both my professional goals and personal needs.?

Which winning value at Prodapt resonates most with you??

Persistence. Whether it was transitioning from nursing to IT or leading a team through challenging times, persistence has been the key. It’s about staying the course, adapting to new circumstances, and never giving up—values I hold close in both my personal and professional life.?

Which three places would you recommend to a first-time visitor to Panama?

Panama has so much to offer! I would definitely recommend visiting the Panama Canal—it’s a must-see for its historical significance. Another place is Casco Viejo, the old quarter of Panama City, with its colonial architecture and vibrant atmosphere. Lastly, the San Blas Islands or Pearl Islands Archipelago is absolutely breathtaking, with crystal-clear waters and unique cultural heritage.