Working In Tech

On this episode we chat with Torrance Evans, a software engineer at JP Morgan with an unconventional path. He earned a business administration degree on a basketball scholarship and has entrepreneurial experience in real estate, car rentals, and Airbnb. Torrance started coding through self-teaching and later joined a sponsored program covering his tuition. He's actively involved in the community, leading the Atlanta chapter of Black Boys Code, a nonprofit teaching African American boys coding and tech opportunities. Torrance also serves on the board of directors for the Atlanta chapter of Blacks in Technology. He builds community through his email list, sharing weekly networking events in Atlanta for tech professionals seeking career pivots, networking, or employment. RESOURCES Free Code Camp: https://www.freecodecamp.org/ LinkedIn Interviews: https://www.linkedin.com/advice/3/how-do-you-overcome-common-online-interview-challenges Codecademy: https://www.codecademy.com/ Educative: https://www.educative.io/ Microsoft LEAP: https://leap.microsoft.com/en-US/ JP Morgan ETSE: https://careers.jpmorgan.com/global/en/students/programs/emerging-talent-software-engineers-fulltime 𝕏 CONNECT WITH ME ON SOCIALS 𝕏 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/juwonthetechie/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/JuwonTheTechie Threads: https://www.threads.net/@juwonthetechie IG: https://www.instagram.com/juwonthetechie/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/juwon-io/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@juwonthetechie CONNECT WITH TORRANCE LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/torranceevans/ CHAPTERS 0:00 - Intro 1:55 - Community Work 4:00 - Learning Programming 5:50 - Building Connections 7:50 - Breaking into Tech 10:10 - Picking a Path into Programming 11:55 - Salary Progression 14:30 - Benefits of Joining Communities 17:30 - Learning and Doing 19:40 - Dealing with the Difficulties 23:25 - Combining your Talents 25:12 - Getting More Black People in Tech 30:42 - Resources 34:30 - Knowing When to Apply 41:00 - Learning on Your Own 51:45 - Picking a Good Bootcamp 56:23 - Job Security 59:25 - Certifications 1:04:25 - Final Words 1:05:20 - Conclusion

On this episode of #WorkinginTech, we're talking to Zachary Johnson. Zachary is a dedicated Product Manager with a strong background in leading cross-functional teams and driving product development. He excels in creating strategies that enhance user experience and boost business growth. Today, Zachary will share insights into his career journey, strategies for successful product management, and advice on how to thrive in the fast-paced tech industry. 𝕏 CONNECT WITH ME ON SOCIALS 𝕏 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/juwonthetechie/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/JuwonTheTechie Threads: https://www.threads.net/@juwonthetechie IG: https://www.instagram.com/juwonthetechie/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/juwon-io/ Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@juwonthetechie CONNECT WITH ZACHARY LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/zacharydavidjohnson/ CHAPTERS 0:00 - Intro 1:46 - Breaking into Tech 8:15 - Product Mgt. and Data Science 11:45 - CEO to 9-5 18:25 - Community 20:54 - Top 3 Skills for Product Managers 24:15 - Learning Communication 30:40 - Salary Progression 33:08 - Skills Product Mgt. Recruiters Want 36:45 - Exciting Developments in Tech 40:00 - Day-to-Day of a Product Manager 42:25 - Math in Tech 46:22 - Tech Jargon 50:06 - Growth Product Manager 53:50 - Final Words 55:20 - Conclusion

On this episode of #WorkinginTech, we're talking to Lawrence Lockhart (LawrenceDCodes). Lawrence is a former hospitality manager turned full stack software developer who loves enhancing the customer experience with digital products. In his personal time, Lawrence is continually learning and investing time in others seeking to build their tech skills and communities. He's positioned himself as a developer advocate for the soon-to-be-developer. Lawrence is a coding bootcamp teaching assistant, tech meetup leader, and Advisory Board Member for the Memphis Technology Foundation. Today, Lawrence will share his journey pivoting from hospitality to tech, keys to paying it forward through mentorship and community building, and advice for making an impact beyond just your day job. 𝕏 CONNECT WITH ME ON SOCIALS 𝕏 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/juwonthetechie/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/JuwonTheTechie Threads: https://www.threads.net/@juwonthetechie IG: https://www.instagram.com/juwonthetechie/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/juwon-io/ Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@juwonthetechie CONNECT WITH LAWRENCE LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lawrencelockhart/ CHAPTERS 0:00 - Intro 2:30 - Why Tech? 15:30 - Going the Extra Mile 20:53 - Starting and Quitting 25:32 - Staying Motivated 29:04 - Using Transferable Skills 46:25 - Aligning Visions 48:39 - Bootcamps and Degrees 55:04 - Certifications 1:01:40 - Finding a Mentor 1:09:41 - RenderATL 1:12:30 - Conclusion

On this episode of #WorkinginTech, we're chatting with Mariame Sow, a Google Cloud specialist. Mariame transitioned from biology and sales into cloud computing. Her background allows her to bridge technology and real-world applications. Mariame helps clients tailor Google Cloud solutions to optimize operations and drive growth. Today, Mariame will discuss her journey into cloud computing and how you can make the switch too. If you enjoy the discussion, leave a like and share! 𝕏 CONNECT WITH ME ON SOCIALS 𝕏 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/juwonthetechie/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/JuwonTheTechie Threads: https://www.threads.net/@juwonthetechie IG: https://www.instagram.com/juwonthetechie/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/juwon-io/ Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@juwonthetechie CONNECT WITH MARIAME LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mariamesherazadsow/ CHAPTERS 0:00 - Intro 2:35 - Cloud Training Program 3:55 - Acronyms in Sales 5:00 - Collaboration in Sales Roles 6:50 - Choosing Sales as a Career 9:55 - Google Cloud Certification 12:55 - Networking & Building Relationships 20:23 - Soft Skills 24:43 - Salary Progression 28:50 - B2B Sales Background 31:30 - Best Certifications for Cloud Sales 32:36 - Strategies for Quick Career Growth 35:50 - Job Search Strategies 38:30 - Growing Competence in Sales 44:25 - Sales Tools and Software 46:10 - Biggest Cloud Platforms 47:00 - Taking the Difficult Path 48:56 - Being a Minority in Sales 51:10 - Typical Day at Work 52:05 - Red Flags to Avoid 53:44 - Exciting Trends in Cloud Computing & AI 58:34 - Final Words 59:24 - Conclusion

On this episode of #WorkinginTech, we're chatting with Chanel, a seasoned Chemist and Mathematician turned Software Engineer. She excels at and is passionate about enhancing user experiences. Known for dynamic conference sessions, she has spoken at prestigious events and founded the Mentor Me Collective to address education & wealth gaps in tech. Through her leadership, Chanel has facilitated over 400+ BIPOC individuals in securing 6-figure tech careers, totaling $30M+ in compensation. As the previous President of the Blacks in Technology, NYC Chapter, she served & dedicated her expertise to uplift various tech communities, aiming to amplify black representation. Her mission is to cultivate community, develop black talent, and increase awareness in the tech industry. Today, Chanel will share her journey from Chemist to Software Engineer, keys to building successful mentorship programs, and advice for creating a more diverse and inclusive tech industry. If you enjoy the discussion, leave a like and share! 𝕏 CONNECT WITH ME ON SOCIALS 𝕏 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/juwonthetechie/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/JuwonTheTechie Threads: https://www.threads.net/@juwonthetechie IG: https://www.instagram.com/juwonthetechie/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/juwon-io/ Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@juwonthetechie CONNECT WITH CHANEL LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/powerc1/ MentorMeCollective: https://www.mentormecollective.org/ RESOURCES Adobe Creative Types - https://mycreativetype.com/about/ Character Strengths Survey - https://www.viacharacter.org/account/register 16 Personalities - https://www.16personalities.com/ CHAPTERS 0:00 - Intro 1:30 - STEM to Tech 15:15 - Bringing Others Into Tech 27:00 - Finding Success 32:15 - Top 3 Skills 38:15 - Starting All Over Again 49:32 - Working at Apple 51:52 - Job Application Tips 56:49 - Working in Non-diverse Spaces 1:00:10 - Big Tech vs Startups 1:01:25 - Encouraging Others 1:04:00 - One Piece of Advice 1:06:28 - Final Words 1:07:50 - Conclusion

On this episode of #WorkinginTech, we're chatting with Patricia Dada. Patricia initially worked as a Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DE&I) Consultant before making an unexpected career transition into the fertility tech industry as a Project Manager. Noticing disparities in crucial reproductive healthcare services for the Black community, Patricia founded the Black Fertility Journal Inc. (BFJ), a startup committed to providing tailored fertility education, resources, and services. Patricia holds a Master's Degree in Social Justice and Community Engagement and plans to pursue a PhD as she continues her work in the fertility tech industry. Today, Patricia will share her journey pivoting from DE&I consulting into fertility tech, as well as her mission and motivations behind founding BFJ. Get ready for an insightful discussion on blending social justice advocacy with technology to address healthcare inequities. If you enjoy the discussion, leave a like and share! 𝕏 CONNECT WITH ME ON SOCIALS 𝕏 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/juwonthetechie/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/JuwonTheTechie Threads: https://www.threads.net/@juwonthetechie IG: https://www.instagram.com/juwonthetechie LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/juwon-io/ Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@juwonthetechie CONNECT WITH PATRICIA LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/patriciadada CHAPTERS 0:00 - Intro 0:39 - Why FertilityTech? 9:15 - Racial Issues in Corporations 26:55 - What is FertilityTech? 29:30 - Tech in Healthcare 31:20 - Skillhat 34:55 - Building Domain Knowledge 36:40 - Building Impactful Relationships 40:28 - Chasing the Vision 45:05 - Interviews and Negotiation 48:37 - Tech Jobs for Introverts 54:30 - Day at the Job 1:01:15 - Final Words 1:02:40 - Conclusion

On this #WorkingInTech episode, we'll talk with Denise Sagoes, a Learning Content Strategist at Google Fiber. Denise has a background in teaching and now empowers users through well-written content. At Google Fiber, Denise manages a team that produces helpful emails, articles, and newsletters for training programs. She ensures the learning materials are easy to understand for customers and employees. Denise also advocates for diversity as a leader of the Women's and Black Employee groups. Her passion project teaches leadership and professional development to children early on. Today, Denise discusses her path into tech education, creating engaging learning content, and supporting underrepresented groups. If you enjoy the discussion, leave a like and share! 𝕏 CONNECT WITH ME ON SOCIALS 𝕏 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/juwonthetechie/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/JuwonTheTechie Threads: https://www.threads.net/@juwonthetechie IG: https://www.instagram.com/juwonthetechie/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/juwon-io/ Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@juwonthetechie CONNECT WITH DENISE LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/denise-sagoes/ CHAPTERS 0:00 - Intro 1:00 - “How I Got Into Tech” 3:15 - Teaching Career 5:18 - Passion vs Work 16:20 - Building a Solid Foundation 18:33 - Building a Network 27:45 - Starting All Over Again 31:43 - Growth Potential in LND 36:00 - Communication 36:59 - Tools Used in LND 45:02 - Courses on Technical Writing 50:10 - Joining the ERG 52:00 - Resources 1:00:05 - Final Words 1:00:45 - Conclusion

On this episode of the #WorkinginTech livestream, we're joined by Tarena Lofton, a skilled content and social media specialist who has forged an exceptional career path through the art of storytelling. With a background in journalism and public relations, Tarena's expertise lies in translating complex concepts into easily digestible content tailored for specific audiences. Her journey has provided her with invaluable wisdom for professionals looking to understand their value in the workplace and align their careers with their unique skillsets. Throughout her career, Tarena has demonstrated her prowess by successfully coordinating and managing various content projects for upper management, generating significant brand growth and recognition for several brands and clients. As a content manager, she takes the lead in creating daily healthcare and health policy stories, strategically promoting that content across social platforms. During the conversation, Tarena shares her inspiring journey, highlighting how she leveraged her natural storytelling abilities to build a thriving career in content and social media management. She offers insights into effectively communicating intricate messages to diverse audiences and explores the transferable skills that have driven her success. With a goal to lead creative and innovative projects that resonate with a growing audience, Tarena exemplifies the power of authentic communication and strategic content creation. Tune in to gain valuable perspectives from her unique career path and approach to impactful storytelling in the digital age. 𝕏 CONNECT WITH ME ON SOCIALS 𝕏 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/juwonthetechie/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/JuwonTheTechie Threads: https://www.threads.net/@juwonthetechie IG: https://www.instagram.com/juwonthetechie/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/juwon-io/ Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@juwonthetechie CONNECT WITH TARENA LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tarena-lofton-mpa/ CHAPTERS 0:35 - Intro 1:02 - Why Tech? 2:47 - Internship 4:40 - Stumbling Onto a Path 7:50 - Working in the U.S House of Representatives 10:36 - Moving to the Private Sector 11:58 - Power of Storytelling 15:40 - Using Transferable Skills 20:35 - Networking 22:05 - Starting Out New 24:45 - The Death of Digital Marketing? 27:15 - Growing a Brand 34:27 - Making Boring Content Fun 37:08 - Importance of Mentors 40:11 - Most Challenging Skill to Learn 44:00 - Typical Day 46:31 - Skills and Experiences from College 54:00 - Courses & Certifications 55:00 - “What I would do different” 59:35 - Final Words 1:00:15 - Conclusion

On this episode of #WorkinginTech, we're chatting with Abiola, an experienced product manager with over 5 years of driving product strategies aligned with company objectives. At MLSE, Abiola leads key initiatives to enhance user engagement and boost retail sales. His prior roles at Publicis Sapient and Buzzbite highlight his ability to manage and enhance digital products. Today, Abiola will share insights into crafting winning product strategies, aligning cross-functional teams, and leveraging data to drive engagement and growth. 𝕏 CONNECT WITH ME ON SOCIALS 𝕏 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/juwonthetechie/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/JuwonTheTechie Threads: https://www.threads.net/@juwonthetechie IG: https://www.instagram.com/juwonthetechie/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/juwon-io/ Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@juwonthetechie CONNECT WITH ABIOLA LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/abiola-oyedepo-049bb0204/ CHAPTERS 0:00 - Intro 0:46 - Why Tech? 2:44 - Getting Into Tech 5:51 - Beating Impostor Syndrome 9:00 - Building The Skills 10:28 - Toronto Raptors and MLSE 19:40 - The Job of A Product Manager 23:37 - Certifications 31:19 - Networking 39:18 - Building Relationships with Stakeholders 43:36 - Salary Progression 45:40 - Tools to Learn 50:35 - Process Mapping 51:15 - Best Industries for PMs 54:40 - Azure? 55:30 - Skills For Aspiring PMs 56:43 - Perfecting Product Mapping 58:05 - Making Your Mark In The 1st 90 Days 59:08 - Final Words 1:00:15 - Using Feedback in Product Management 1:00:57 - Conclusion

On this episode of #WorkinginTech, we're chatting with John C. Hulede. John got his start in sales after graduating with a degree in Marketing and being a 4-year Division 1 collegiate golfer. After a few years in sales, he went on to get a Master's degree in Industrial and Organizational Psychology from the University of Maryland, which helps him understand the needs and challenges of his customers and provide them with effective solutions. John also founded the Hulede Collegiate Golf Scholarship (HCGS) in March 2022 to serve as a mentor, award financial aid to current and future minority collegiate golfers, and help students navigate their careers post-undergrad. In just 3 years, HCGS has awarded 14 scholarships and over $32,000. Today, John will share insights on leveraging his unique background to thrive in sales, and how he's making an impact through the Hulede Collegiate Golf Scholarship. 𝕏 CONNECT WITH ME ON SOCIALS 𝕏 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/juwonthetechie/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/JuwonTheTechie Threads: https://www.threads.net/@juwonthetechie IG: https://www.instagram.com/juwonthetechie/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/juwon-io/ Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@juwonthetechie CONNECT WITH JOHN LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jchmps/ CHAPTERS 0:00 - Intro 1:34 - Why Tech? 5:43 - Interviews 7:22 - Importance of the First Role 9:00 - Golfing in College 13:27 - Sports and Sales 15:48 - Networking 17:29 - Must-have Skills in Tech Sales 20:00 - EdTech Experience 23:40 - Working in Media 27:30 - A Full Sales Cycle 30:00 - Salary Progression 35:10 - Building Discipline 37:05 - Starting All Over Again 40:55 - Self Improvement 43:02 - John's Scholarship Program 45:18 - Getting Motivation 47:15 - Importance of Tech Conferences 51:30 - Most Rewarding Part of His Job 53:40 - Doing Good 56:15 - Approaching Mentors and Building Support Systems 1:00:01 - Final Words 1:00:35 - Conclusion