Hello,
Sorry for the delay on this; creating a blog, even just once a month, is not an easy task. I've definitely put the blogging part of me behind for a while.
This month, I plan to create some questions and answers that will hopefully motivate or help others, especially those considering a career change later in life, like I did.
I prefer to be straightforward, so please see my 10 questions and answers below.
What motivated you to transition from a career as a chef to pursuing a degree in IT?
A:
During lockdown, I lost my job as a chef and faced uncertainty about whether I would have any income the following month. It was a tough time, despite the joy of meeting my life partner. Unsure of what to do next, I took a part-time job flipping burgers. The work environment was toxic, with long hours and low wages, and I realized this wasn't sustainable if I wanted to be a stable provider for my future family. The hospitality industry felt fragile, especially during economic downturns or pandemics when people stopped dining out. My wife, who holds a degree and understands the English educational system, guided me to an agency that answered my questions and pointed me in the right direction. IT was a natural choice for me; I had a knack for assembling computers since childhood, though I never considered pursuing it further. But given the circumstances, it was clear that advancing my knowledge in IT was the path forward.
How did your experience as a chef prepare you for a career in IT?
A:
IT and hospitality jobs aren't as different as they might seem. Being a good chef requires strong communication with colleagues, strict time management to avoid delays, and punctuality. Working under pressure, multitasking, and dealing with angry customers or coworkers are skills that are just as valuable in the IT field, in my opinion.
What were the biggest challenges you faced when transitioning to a new career, and how did you overcome them?
A:
The biggest challenge I face is keeping up with the speed at which my younger colleagues work. While I'm not slow, they really move fast, and they’re often very technical. After each shift, I write down new terms to review so I can stay up to date. The challenge lies in adjusting to a new industry and work style. To overcome this, I take detailed notes, keeping them as short and clear as possible. I use a note-taking app and handwritten notes, storing everything properly. Quick access to these notes is crucial, as it helps me stay on top of my work. Understanding what people want and efficient note-taking are key.
How did you balance studying for your degree with your work and personal life?
A:
While studying full-time, I held two jobs, which seemed almost impossible at first. But with my wife's unwavering support, I managed to make it work. I would only go home to sleep for 4-5 hours and spent the rest of the time working and studying. I focused on the reward rather than the struggle, which made the time pass more quickly. During this period, I was also a father, so I had to keep pushing forward, knowing my family depended on me. This experience taught me that with the right mindset and a supportive family, we humans can achieve incredible things.
What steps did you take to secure your first IT job after completing your degree?
A:
I made it a point to speak with each of my teachers, asking them about the job market, what skills are essential, and what to focus on. I also watched numerous YouTube channels about IT to understand which certifications and skills are important. I took my studies seriously, constantly seeking feedback from my teachers. I learned the basics: Office 365, Azure, basic networking, how to assemble and disassemble computers, and how to fix broken operating systems.
When my university advertised an IT support role, I applied. At that time, I had earned my Certified Ethical Hacker certification, which required strong networking and computing skills. Since all my teachers knew and trusted me, I believe their positive feedback helped me secure the job. That role was instrumental in boosting my CV, as it provided me with relevant experience.
What certifications or additional training, if any, did you pursue to enhance your IT skills?
A:
I completed the Cisco Networking Essentials course and several courses on LinkedIn about the fundamentals of Linux. I also took the Google IT Support and Cybersecurity courses on Coursera. I went through a CCNA course, but at the time, the exam fee was too expensive, so I only studied the material. Additionally, I completed an EC-Council Ethical Hacking course and spent a lot of time working on Packet Tracer labs.If I had to outline what you need, I’d say start with CompTIA A+ for computing fundamentals, Office 365 (since it’s widely used, you should be familiar with it), and a bit of Azure. Consider a networking course like Network+ or CCNA, or find any free courses available. Build yourself a strong portfolio and leverage LinkedIn to showcase your skills. Keep applying for jobs and never give up. If you’re on a tight budget, focus on free study materials instead of paying for certifications, and make the most of self-study opportunities
What is the role of a NOC engineer, and what do you enjoy most about it?
A:
In my current role as a NOC (Network Operations Center) Engineer, I primarily handle first-line support, focusing on provisioning and monitoring various graphs to assess the health of our Exchange systems. If any color other than green appears on these graphs, it typically signals a potential issue that requires investigation. This might involve raising a ticket with the relevant company for assistance or requesting a repair for the fiber. In the event of a major hardware failure in one of our data centers, I am responsible for escalating the matter to second-line support, which includes organizing emergency meetings, providing detailed explanations of the situation, and coordinating necessary actions. Essentially, we act as the vigilant overseers of the internet and our systems, ensuring that any maintenance or issues are promptly reported through the appropriate channels, primarily using Microsoft Teams.
What I enjoy most about this role is the flexibility to work from home, allowing me to stay comfortable whether I'm in a warm office or in my own space. I also appreciate the work schedule of four days on and four days off, which provides me with ample free time to spend with my family.
How do you stay updated with the latest trends and technologies in the IT industry?
A:
In our company, we have a development budget that allows us to stay current with the latest advancements in networking. I also make use of LinkedIn Learning to continuously update my skills. Working alongside colleagues who are also passionate about technology ensures that I am always aware of the newest trends and have access to plenty of training opportunities. While it’s impossible to master every new technology, it’s recommended to focus on 1-2 key areas and share that knowledge with others. This approach helps us stay informed without being overwhelmed.
What advice would you give to someone who wants to change careers but is hesitant to take the first step?
A:
Start by building a strong foundational knowledge. Use Google and YouTube to research and develop a plan for your learning journey. It's important to focus on mastering the basics before diving into advanced topics. Consider starting with CompTIA A+ certification materials and Office 365, as these are essential building blocks. From there, you can branch out into networking, coding, design, cybersecurity, system administration, or cloud computing—whatever interests you. Dedicate at least 30 minutes a day to your studies. It might be challenging, but persistence is key. I applied for over 300 jobs and faced numerous interview rejections before landing my current position. Keep pushing forward and never give up.
How has your career change impacted your personal life and future goals?
A:
I've experienced significant relief from the knee and ankle pain I used to have from standing 16 hours a day, six days a week. I feel less stressed, more motivated, and can smile again. I'm also earning more money than I ever did as a senior sous chef. This financial improvement has allowed me to take my family on vacation, which has been a wonderful change. Overall, the difference is remarkable: I make more money and no longer feel exhausted at the end of the day.