Game Changers: from Marine Biologist to Software Engineer at an IT Company – Gabriel Moço
At 31 years old and with a background in Marine Biology, Gabriel Moço decided to swap the lab for tech. What started as a growing interest in technology quickly turned into a strong motivation to learn something new and build a different kind of career.
The career change wasn’t easy, but it was the right move. Today, he works as a Software Engineer at Fabamaq, a casino games company in Porto that values talent, dedication, and adaptability.
From science to software: when interest turns into purpose
After three years in Marine Biology, the turning point came naturally. His connection to tech had been there all along, but once he started learning to code, he realised how much more passionate he felt about it compared to his previous field.
The main reason for the change? “I found something I liked more, and that made it impossible to see myself staying in the field I was in.”
That clarity didn’t erase his fears: the fear of not being able to commit fully, or the doubt about finding opportunities without a degree in Computer Science. But the solution came at the right time: the SwitCH postgraduate programme.
A career shift with challenges and growth
Despite the radical shift in fields, Gabriel brought valuable skills from his time in Marine Biology that still support his day-to-day work as a Software Engineer:
- Patience and precision - His lab experience required attention to detail, accuracy, and persistence; even when results weren’t immediate. These qualities are still essential in software development.
- Analytical thinking - Data analysis was a core part of his previous role, and now helps him interpret technical information and make informed decisions.
- Resilience - Leaving a stable career to pursue a demanding retraining path was a huge challenge. Committing full-time to the SwitCH programme and keeping up with the fast learning pace required effort and dedication.
These skills contributed to a more confident and solid transition into the tech industry, reinforcing his ability to adapt to a new professional environment.
Joining Fabamaq and discovering a new culture
Gabriel’s integration into Fabamaq was memorable from the very first moment. “During the interview, the first thing they told me was that everyone speaks informally and uses first names. I wasn’t used to that at all, but I immediately felt the environment was different.”
Although joining a team with more experienced professionals and formal tech backgrounds was challenging, the welcoming vibe and closeness were key.
The power of culture and human connection
One of the biggest surprises in this new journey was how essential human connection is. "I thought working in tech would be more isolated, but it’s the opposite. Good relationships are key to learning and growing.”
At Fabamaq, a technology company focused on casino games, the culture of openness, sharing and support is always present. And it had a direct impact on his transition.
“I felt surrounded by people who were on the same path or had lots of experience to share. That really motivated me.”
Achievements, perspectives, and what’s next
Along the way, there have been several wins. The biggest one? “Feeling like I can work with different technologies and languages, and seeing my progress not just in what I can do, but also in how I can help others.”
Although his previous career has little in common with tech, Gabriel recognises that having a different perspective can bring value to a team, even if it’s hard to measure. What matters most is that he made the right decision.
“Looking back, it was definitely the right choice. I’m more motivated, more curious, and more fulfilled in my work.”
For anyone considering a career shift into tech, his advice is clear: go for it, but be ready to fully commit.
“You’ll have doubts, and you’ll need to study a lot, but if you discover that you really love this, the effort is worth it.”
The inspiration for taking a risk
Gabriel Moço’s story shows how a career change can transform more than your job; it can reshape how you see work altogether. “I feel like I was able to shift directions and find something that truly fulfils me. That, to me, is already a big win.”
At Fabamaq, Gabriel found a team, a culture, and a place to grow.
Discover more Game Changers from Fabamaq
Want to keep exploring the stories of people who changed careers and found their place in tech? Check out the journey of Mariana Pereira, who left nursing to become a Software Engineer at a casino games company. Her story proves that switching paths can truly be a jackpot.
