Inspiring Atlantans share their stories of successful career changes

STORY: Amy Meadows
PHOTOS: Stephen Payne

Spanx founder Sara Blakely sold fax machines door-to-door before launching the now famous billion-dollar company. Harrison Ford was a professional carpenter before transforming into a bona fide Hollywood legend. And Mark Twain piloted riverboats prior to trying his hand at journalism and becoming one of the most celebrated authors in history.

Obviously, there’s something to be said for embarking on a new career. And while it can be daunting, people take that leap every day. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, between 2015 and 2016, 6.2 million workers, or 4 percent of the total workforce, moved from one occupational group into an entirely different one.

Do you know someone who’s part of that statistic? You do now. Here, we share the stories of several Atlantans who have made successful career shifts and explain what it took to navigate the ins and outs of a new industry and professional experience. Sit back and prepare to be inspired.

READ MORE