Working In Tech

On this episode of #WorkinginTech, we're chatting with Kelsey Hightower. Kelsey is a celebrated software engineer, developer advocate, and speaker known for his work with Kubernetes, open-source software, and cloud computing. Kelsey dropped out of college and taught himself the skills required to start his career as an independent contractor for BellSouth, before becoming involved in the open-source world, working at New Relic, CoreOS, Puppet Labs, and most recently at Google. Kelsey has become one of the most well-known speakers on Kubernetes, and has also spoken on other topics, including serverless computing. He has co-founded the Kubernetes-focused conference KubeCon and co-wrote the book "Kubernetes Up and Running." Kelsey will share his remarkable career journey and insights on the power of open-source software and cloud computing. Get ready for an insightful discussion! 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 KELSEY Twitter: https://x.com/kelseyhightower CHAPTERS 0:00 - Intro 0:42 - Why Tech? 4:21 - Finding Resources in the 90's 7:38 - Job Search Strategy 11:16 - Experience as an Entrepreneur 16:14 - Landing the First Role 19:41 - Settling Down 24:04 - Working in a Team 28:46 - The Power of Networking 35:37 - Moving into Kubernetes 40:48 - Certifications & Learning 43:27 - Starting Out New 46:00 - Building Communication Skills 49:37 - What Is Kubernetes? 55:32 - Render(ATL) Keynote Prep 58:50 - Retirement 1:14:52 - Avoiding Burnout 1:19:26 - Final Words 1:20:28 - Conclusion

On this episode of #WorkinginTech, we're chatting with Shadai Reid. With a background steeped in customer service, Shadai made a bold leap into the world of technology as a Business Analyst. Her journey was defined by rapid upskilling and transformative growth, culminating in a remarkable achievement: tripling her salary in less than a year. Today, Shadai stands as a seasoned tech consultant, leveraging her expertise to navigate the intricate landscape of technology consulting with finesse. Drawing from her own experiences and insights gained along the way, Shadai has authored an empowering eBook tailored for those seeking to make a similar transition into the tech consultancy realm, particularly within the dynamic US market. Join us as Shadai shares invaluable knowledge and strategies to pave the way for success in this exhilarating field. 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 SHADAI LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shadai-reid/ Shadai's E-book: https://shadaireid.gumroad.com/l/hhjvv CHAPTERS 0:00 - Intro 1:46 - Why Tech? 4:40 - Business Analysis vs Project Management 6:04 - Biggest Surprise 8:30 - Communicating With Stakeholders 10:09 - Landing the First Role 13:08 - Theory vs Practice 16:43 - 3xing Her Salary 21:25 - Academic Background 22:18 - Working Across Industries 24:40 - Negotiating Pay 26:27 - Certifications 28:25 - Contracting vs. Full-time 32:49 - Learning Salesforce 35:27 - Picking a Career Path 38:10 - Handling Change 42:45 - Networking 50:14 - Skills 52:52 - Salary Progression 54:46 - SHADAI’S E-BOOK 56:34 - Best Part of the Job 59:18 - Final Words 1:01:45 - Conclusion

On this episode of #WorkinginTech, we're chatting with Diamond Rae, a dynamic professional celebrated for her exceptional interpersonal skills and remarkable career transition from aviation to tech. With over a decade of experience as a Flight Attendant at Delta Air Lines, Diamond honed her ability to deliver outstanding customer service and thrive in high-pressure situations. Leveraging her warm demeanor and adaptability, Diamond seamlessly transitioned into the role of DEI Recruiting Events Program Manager at HP, Inc. In this position, her knack for collaboration and meticulous event planning shines as she orchestrates successful initiatives, fostering inclusive environments, and driving organizational growth. With a marketing degree from Clark Atlanta University and an MBA from Walden University, Diamond combines her diverse skill set with a genuine passion for creating meaningful experiences and building strong relationships across industries. Today, Diamond will share her inspiring journey from the skies to the tech world, offering insights on navigating career transitions, leveraging transferable skills, and championing diversity, equity, and inclusion in the workplace. Get ready for an engaging discussion filled with valuable lessons and strategies for professional growth and success. 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 DIAMOND LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/diamondrae/ CHAPTERS 0:00 - Intro 1:00 - Why Tech? 5:43 - Challenges 8:08 - Networking 13:45 - The Recruitment and DEI Ecosystem 18:10 - Getting into DEI Recruitment 23:10 - Top 3 Skills 27:30 - Finding Balance 30:45 - Mistakes Newbies Make 32:05 - Making Your Resume Speak 33:33 - Regrets and Mistakes 37:44 - Building Workplace Relationships 41:28 - Lessons Learned & Favourite Role 44:28 - Salary Progression 46:58 - Responsibilities of the Role 50:00 - Working with Multiple Stakeholders 51:20 - Misconceptions 56:00 - DEI and Getting Black People in Tech 1:03:50 - Final Words 1:04:28 - Conclusion

On this episode of #WorkinginTech, we're chatting with Tyrone Boyd. Tyrone is a Senior Security Analyst based in Tampa, Florida. He graduated from the University of South Florida in 2019 with a degree in Information Technology. After working as a Mail Carrier with no tech experience, Tyrone transitioned into the cybersecurity field in 2021 as an Associate Security Analyst. In his current role, Tyrone has gained invaluable experience and insights that he believes can benefit others looking to break into the industry. With a passion for helping others, he is eager to share his journey and provide guidance to those in similar situations, as he firmly believes there is room for anyone willing to pursue a career in cybersecurity. Today, Tyrone will share his inspiring story of transitioning from a non-tech background into a thriving cybersecurity career. Get ready for an engaging discussion filled with practical advice and insights on navigating the cybersecurity job market and overcoming barriers to entry. 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 TYRONE LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tyroneboyd/ CHAPTERS 0:00 - Intro 1:42 - Why Tech? 4:12 - Transitioning between Industries 7:40 - Importance of Mentorship 8:59 - Securing the First Role 11:42 - Continuous Learning 12:53 - Engineering vs Analysis 15:00 - Top 3 Skills 19:33 - Salary Progression 22:07 - Certifications 24:37 - Mistakes 28:32 - Starting All Over Again 35:10 - Exciting Trends in Cybersecurity 37:00 - Climbing the Ranks 41:03 - Getting into Cybersecurity Without a Cert 43:43 - A Day in The Life 46:03 - Worst Nightmare 47:18 - DON’T DO THIS 48:46 - Stopping Big Security Threats 51:54 - Threat of A.I 54:40 - Coding in Cybersecurity 57:11 - Final Words 58:30 - Conclusion

On this episode of #WorkinginTech, we're chatting with Mo' Ekujumi. Mo' is a seasoned technology executive and servant leader with over 10 years' experience leading and facilitating global teams. At SkillHat, he launches motivated professionals into dream tech careers through e-learning and career development. Mo' also won Black Product Innovator of the Year from BPTN and Bank of Montreal for his work. Channeling his passion for education, Mo' has developed globally accredited training courses with PMI, IIBA, and Scrum Alliance. He has trained over 1000 Project Managers, Scrum Masters, Business Analysts and Product Owners, who are now thriving in their mission-driven careers. Today, Mo' will share his journey founding SkillHat, keys to creating engaging and effective tech education, and advice for turning your expertise into a purpose-driven business. Get ready for an insightful discussion on empowering the next generation of tech talent! 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 MO' LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mobola/ SkillHat Website: https://skillhat.ca/ CHAPTERS 0:00 - Intro 1:45 - Why Tech? 6:55 - Courses and Certifications 10:10 - Landing the First Role 14:14 - Networking 19:35 - PM Experience and Going Solo 27:58 - Choosing EdTech 34:15 - Choosing a Path 39:08 - Skills 43:40 - Newbie Mistakes 48:32 - Interview Tips 53:52 - Salary Progression 54:30 - Learning While Employed 59:05 - Gaining PM Experience 1:01:45 - Lifestyle 1:08:06 - Final Words 1:10:05 - Conclusion

On this episode of #WorkingInTech, we chat with Ty Smith, a nationally recognized & award-winning Channel Manager, with over 18 years in the telecom industry. As a Channel Manager, Ty specializes in teaching current & aspiring entrepreneurs how to build and grow their own IT companies by selling tech products and services to companies across the world. His mission is to drive more diversity into the Channel Sales industry by providing simple strategies that anyone, from any background, can implement. In this discussion, Ty will explain the basic concepts of Channel Sales, and he’ll share the actionable steps that any individual can follow to enter and thrive in the industry. CONNECT WITH ME 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 TY LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/tyrellsmith/ CHAPTERS 0:00 - Intro 1:56 - Why Tech? 8:03 - Transitioning into Tech 12:55 - Salary Progression 16:12 - Tips for Breaking In 20:44 - Moving from Comcast to Cox 23:18 - Transferable Skills 26:43 - Taking on Leadership Roles 35:33 - Key Skills for Sales Roles 37:43 - Dumbing Down Tech Jargon 42:03 - Resources 45:52 - Early Career Missteps 52:45 - Gaining Tech Sales Experience 55:05 - Emerging Trends 58:55 - BIG UPDATE 1:09:57 - Final Words 1:12:32 - Conclusion

On this episode of #WorkingInTech, we chat with Kenneth Ellington, a driven cybersecurity professional dedicated to nurturing new talent. He went from the deli counter to Senior Cybersecurity Consultant at a Big 4 firm within just 3 years. With expertise in SIEM, SOAR, and endpoint security, he aims to inspire students through training on security solutions and real-world threat scenarios. A Florida native now based in Dallas-Fort Worth, Kenneth formerly taught cyber infrastructure part-time at the University of Houston. He volunteers with Blacks in Cybersecurity (BIC) and trains in boxing and kickboxing, approaching all endeavors with relentless dedication. Tune in as Kenneth shares his rapid growth in cybersecurity consulting, the keys to accelerating your career, and advice for becoming a leader in your role. Packed with actionable tips and unfiltered wisdom, this episode provides a masterclass in leveling up in #cybersecurity! CONNECT WITH ME 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 KENNETH LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/kenneth-ellington CHAPTERS 0:00 - Intro 1:55 - Why Tech? 4:14 - Manifesting Career Goals 5:35 - Learning Cybersecurity Skills 7:05 - Choosing Cybersecurity 11:50 - Hands-on Learning and Transferable Skills 14:15 - Networking 17:12 - Top 3 Skills 19:54 - Salary Progression 21:13 - Foundational Cybersecurity Certs 22:47 - Advice for Newbies 26:20 - Beware! Unrealistic Expectations 31:15 - Importance of a College Degree 32:42 - Exciting areas in Cybersecurity 35:48 - Cybersecurity Roles 40:17 - Teaching and Training Program 47:10 - Gaining Experience 52:37 - Biggest Mistake 54:25 - Explaining Tech to Non-technical Stakeholders 55:15 - Networking as an Introvert 57:50 - Mentorship 1:01:35 - Final Words 1:02:17 - Conclusion

On this episode, we chat with Danisha Chery, a passionate #UXDesigner dedicated to crafting intuitive digital banking experiences. Transitioning from a freelance graphic designer to a UX enthusiast, Danisha’s journey revolves around merging aesthetics with functionality. With a foundation in visual design, she now crafts meaningful user experiences that seamlessly blend form and purpose. Embracing the dynamic shift, she currently designs at Alkami Technology where she is able to bring a unique perspective to UX, driven by a passion for both creativity and user-centric solutions. Before pivoting into tech, Danisha gained valuable insight into user needs through her start at Apple, where she learned how to address customer pain points and make user-centric decisions. While working, she also attended Florida International University where she earned the highest level of distinction, Summa Cum Laude, graduating at the top 5% of her class. Armed with a bachelor's degree in communications, her dedication to academic excellence reflects her commitment to mastering the art of being an effective communicator whilst comprehending user needs thoroughly enough to convey design choices. Tune in as Danisha shares her journey transitioning into UX design, keys to understanding user pain points, and advice for bringing engaging designs to life. Get ready to gain actionable lessons in bridging creativity and code! CONNECT WITH ME 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 DANISHA LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/danishachery/ CHAPTERS 0:00 - Intro 2:48 - Why Tech? 9:11 - College Degrees & Career Progression 14:55 - Landing Her First Role 34:08 - Entry Level Experience 37:17 - The Next Move 48:09 - Collaboration and Networking 49:42 - Emerging Trends in UX Design 51:08 - A.I in UX Design 52:55 - Measuring Success in UX Design 54:18 - Dealing with Stakeholders 57:00 - Certifications 1:00:55 - Best Portfolio Projects 1:02:25 - Final Words 1:03:35 - Conclusion

On this episode, we chat with Christopher Leveston, an IT professional who charted his own path to become a #NetworkEngineer. Armed with an array of certifications including CCNA, AWS Cloud Practitioner, Microsoft Azure Fundamentals, #CompTIA Network+, and Security+, Marlon demonstrates how drive trumps college degrees. Through continuous learning and leveraging opportunities, he has become a formidable talent in securing organizations' critical systems and networks. Tune in as Christopher shares his journey of mastering the network engineering stack on his own terms. We’ll unpack proven advice for landing that first IT role, choosing the right certs, standing out without a CS degree, and excelling as a self-made leader. Packed with actionable tips from Christopher's climb up the ranks, this episode will help you chart your own path to success in the tech industry. CONNECT WITH ME: 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 CHRISTOPHER: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/christopherleveston94/ Twitter: https://x.com/DataBunnyLLC CHAPTERS 0:00 - Intro 2:15 - From Package Handling to Tech 7:30 - Landing the First Role 16:45 - Importance of Certifications 21:25 - Networking Certifications 26:15 - Teaching 37:47 - Non-technical into Tech 42:57 - Certification Exam Prep 45:30 - Mistakes to Avoid 47:30 - Building a Brand 51:38 - Entry-level Networking Jobs 58:13 - Personal Branding 1:03:45 - Final Words 1:05:18 - Conclusion

On this episode, we chat with Diondria Brown, a #ProgramManager who pivoted from social work into tech as a #TechSupport Specialist at Apple. She then took on the role of Senior Solutions Consultant at a contact center software company, spearheading innovative solutions and strategic partnerships over 4.5 years with a focus on AI. Diondria holds an MBA from Indiana Tech along with a bachelor’s in social work from Indiana University Bloomington. Currently the Secretary for Young Professional Toastmasters of Houston, she’s demonstrated leadership across tech and community organizations. During her time at Genesys, Diondria was on the leadership team for the Black ERG, driving inclusion and advocacy. Hailing from Gary, Indiana, she now thrives in Houston, seamlessly blending technological expertise, and education, and fostering inclusive communities. Tune in as Diondria shares her journey pivoting into tech, driving change on ERG teams, and insights on integrating passion projects with your career. This episode is filled with lessons for making major moves with purpose. Connect with me: FB: 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 Diondria: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/diondria-brown-mba-18241017a/ CHAPTERS 0:00 - Intro 2:45 - Transitioning into Tech 12:15 - Seeing What’s Possible 17:50 - Networking 22:50 - Soft Skills 26:00 - Debunking Tech Myths 32:21 - Identifying Transferable Skills 36:05 - Finding a Mentor 43:48 - Advice for New Techies 47:45 - Being Visible 51:39 - Career Path 54:25 - What is CCaaS Technology? 59:45 - Final Words