What skills do I need to build for a switch to IT?

For software development you need Python or JavaScript (6-12 months of intensive learning each), a demonstrable project and ideally a bootcamp certificate or open-source contributions. For product management: no coding needed, but SQL basics, Agile/Scrum, UX fundamentals. For data analysis: SQL + Excel/Python + a portfolio project. Entry is often easier through hybrid roles such as business analyst or project manager.