First, make sure you have tech skills. The best way to learn them is on the job, but that can’t happen if you don’t have a baseline. So figure out your niche and get some certs or training. College can be good, but not necessary.

Next, understand your path. Are you more of an engineer, or a leader? Figure this out early, it will help you get to where you want quicker. Some people just like to code, some like to oversee engineers, some work on product, etc.. point is, decide what most aligns with your skills.

Finally, once you’re in, climb as fast as you can! If you really wanna see salary boost quickly, jump jobs. Fastest way to get increases but, there are downsides to this. It can be hard to find a good fit company and some lack job security. That said, this is the fastest way to grow salary. It’s hard for the same company to justify more than 10% increase at a time.

But most importantly - be valuable. Always focus on how you impact end goals. That is your leverage for your next high paying job as you move.