Started on a helpdesk at $12/hr, 6 years later I'm over $100k/yr. I'm a high school dropout. ANYONE can make a good living doing this if willing to put in the time to become competent.
He's correct. IT is a fantastic career to have. Network Engineer, Programmer, DevOps, and Cyber Security are just 4 areas where you can have a long and full career in IT.
Being a Developer/Programmer is an entirely different career path though...? It's not exactly "IT" is it? There are huge differences. I know software engineers that don't know computers AT ALL, believe it!
@@culvercity5922 He's got a point. Most of the biggest milestones, in my IT career (3 years so far), involved being able to describe to people who don't really understand their phones, What i'm doing and what causes the need for troubleshooting. like when the wi-fi goes out suddenly.
Ty Jarrett same. Exactly the same. The hands down two best, most encouraging and inspiring youtubers talking about networking. Changing my life right now.
I keep 2 playlists of things for people to watch of youtube videos on various things in IT to help people. I've been trying to organize them in my spare time.
I hear so many ppl hear my age (38) and say I can't. I'm going to pursue this whether or not someone agrees but it was nice to know I can. It was good to hear it
I'm a mom of two and looking to start a new career in the IT field. Network Chuck's videos have been a huge help getting started and building confidence on the topic. If Chuck can be a family man and still self study, surely I can too.
Agreed. I've done a customer service and a help desk job before, and I found that the people skills I learned from customer service more valuable the technical knowledge. You can be the biggest tech nerd in the world, but if you don't know how to serve others with that knowledge, you will likely struggle in the field. BTW, taking CCNA in January!
100% what you and NetworkChuck said. Myself, I've worked for 12 years in retail customer service. When I made the leap to corporate IT, had my customer service skills not been as high to be able to build great rapport with both external and internal clients I absolutely would have been fired. My ticket closure count (which at that time was the only metric that people really cared about) was constantly short of quota. Despite my quality of work (re-opened tickets with my name attached were extremely rare) Luckily management listened to my arguments regarding the necessity of customer service and quality of work, as well as analyzing my positive feedback received and they have since changed how metrics are measured and I'm still happily employed. :) PS: Hope your CCNA test was successful!
IT is awesome, people skills is a must along with ton of patience. I been in support for 4 years, this morning i passed my CCNA continuning my IT education! People like Chuck inspire me to succeed. Thanks man!
@@pantherman8719 wow time flies I been doing awesome! I’m a Senior Network engineer now working on Cisco SDA and doing network refreshes for biggest gaming company in Vegas.
Joined the Marine Corps right after highschool not knowing what I would want to do in college. Signed up under the general communications electrician contract and apparently scored high enough on tests that my MOS would be 0651 Cyber Network Operator. I did my 4 years in the military and continued in IT afterwards getting a helpdesk job at my community college while getting my A.A.S in Network Administration. Just recently landed a new job without the CCNA and I'm working from home. Using my free time studying and will be taking the CCENT early next year. I would love the Boson NetSim!
Love all your content sir! I started my career doing Financial auditing, switched into IT auditing, and now pursuing a career path of cybersecurity, specifically focused in networking and Infrastructure. I love all the opportunity in IT and I can attest that strong communication skills are key for IT, especially when you have to create relationships with teams in different disciplines within your organization. I have my CISA certification and I'm hoping to get my Comptia A+, Network +, and Security + by end of 2019.
I'm in IT helping design, implement, and maintain my company's global data centers. I love it! Being able to talk to people is a BIG skill to have, started working retail, so it helped. Being able to talk to vendors and co-workers help, and if you want to ever get into management.. communication is a large part of that, we need more managers in IT!
I started in the Custodial Department with my company. Started doing IT stuff on the side with some awesome friends who encouraged me to study! :) The company took notice of my skills and offer me a position on the help desk. Now I'm being looked at to move into a Jr. network admin position. I've been studying for my ICND1 for about 7 months. I tried once and missed passing by 2 questions, but I will not give up :). The field of IT is wide open for those with zero college education if you have the drive to learn. Thank you Chuck for being so encouraging!
Last year I won the david bombal Packet tracker lab course. Since then I have earned my CCENT. I have scheduled my ICND2 for January and also booked my ccna security and design for later in the year. Also I got hired for an IT job in seattle, WA for a small startup so I will be moving from FL. The boson netsim will be a great tool to aid me in my journey!
I started by building my first Computer in 2013. All self taught with no help. I started to study for my A+ shortly after and was able to get a job at a local School ISD for technology support. Went to school, and now have a BS in Computer Science (Cyber Security) and am looking to get my CCNA in Feb.
I got started in IT back when I was in high school helping out the IT department because the school I went to made me have 300 hrs community service hours. Their they taught me how to build and re-image computers. After that I joined the Marine Corps where they taught me cabling and switchboards and then moved to CUCM. Worked with the data marines on configuring switches and troubleshooting them. They did the work and I watched them and picked up a lot. Enough to know what I needed to explain issues back to my higher ups. Did that for eight years. Then when I got out I have been working as a field technician installing data/fiber. Just recently started at the local college for my ccna.
Yes! Being able to talk to people is such an important skill. It sounds trivial but IT people often are stereotyped with being antisocial and awkward. You get treated like a rock star when they think that you can fix their computers problems and generally make life easier. The pay is pretty good especially the more you get into IT and there's so many tracks in IT that it's hard to be bored. Especially, as a woman in IT, you'll stand out for sure. Along with people skills, you've got to be learning on your off time as well to keep up with continuing technologies.
I worked almost 20 years. I been working since the age of 9 and have done a little bit of everything. I have almost 4 years in IT and I love it. I love touching new technology everyday, I love dealing with people and I love learning new stuff everyday. Technology is always changing and you need to change too if you want to work in technology. By change, I mean have good customer service. The customer doesn't care about the technical jargon, they only care if you fix or solved the problem. Having the right balance and knowing how to talk to people without making it sound complicated is a big plus in IT. You can't teach customer service, this takes time to learn.
I have been in customer service in every job I've had in and out of IT. My first IT jobs began in Technical support and lastly as a PC Technician. Now I am a Exchange Administrator for clients all over the US migrating and transitioning to Microsoft servers. Biggest tip if you're wanting to get into IT. Keep learning new things.
I'm 27, lost my amazing job as admin and manager in airbnb related business due to Covid19. I always liked IT. It'll be a journey that I'm starting now! Thank you for inspiration!
I started out in my Aunt's guest room tearing apart computers and almost "Frankensteining" them together. I did it without a problem and amazingly they worked. From there I decided to continue to follow the IT field.
I was a social media customer service rep for a big cell phone provider, got laid off in 2014. Got hired that same year by a telco, worked my way up and eventually got my ccna. I'm a voice engineer that knows routing and switching, 2017 I landed a job with a financial company with a six figure salary. Chuck is right, every time I go to an interview what always stands out is my customer service experience. One thing to add, now in days companies look for individuals that are knowledgeable in various fields. In my case I have a lot of experience with SIP, ISUP(voice)and provisioned BGP circuits.
Just jumped on an entry level analyst postion for a Satellite and Networking team. Getting involved in the pit with the big boys. So I have to push myself harder to speak the lingo and binary flow these guys live, and breath daily. I love it.
I started in IT by working at a call center for my local ISP. I've majored in IT for my first college and went to ASU for software engineering. Currently working on my CCNA.
@@RockySeay I enjoyed it. Honestly though, most of the classes did not help in my career. I'm a network tech, so if I know how to code pacman doesnt really help haha.
@@RockySeay knowledge wise I would have felt just as comfortable before the schooling as I did after. A degree in software engineering or computer science is just to get your foot in the door or advance to a managment position. Most of the real learning will happen outside of school when working on side projects or work in my experience.
Fell in love with IT in the marine corps, I’m getting out now and am very confident and excited to continue my career in IT. Started out as a 2821 Technical controller and am now a 0631 Network Administrator. I’m pumped!
Hi Network Chuck, I've been involved with IT from very early in my life. I remember playing on an old IBM PC Junior. I lived through the days of 286 and 386 playing text adventure games. I also modified DOS files to get sound to work for games on my Sound Blaster 16 audio card. Going through highschool, I never thought I'd work in IT. I entered the Army National Guard in October of 1999 to pay for college. I worked mostly on radios, but the war brought several deployments and the catch of the Army in network technology. On my last deployment, I was the automation shop supervisor. We did desktop/laptop and server imagining and managing the routers and switches for the base I was at. This is where the networking bug bit me. I loved being on the Cisco CLI and I started studying networking in depth. After I got back from my deployment, I started doing various networking contracts. I finally got hired on with a local county governments IT department as a Network Engineer. I had no certifications or degrees, just hard work I put it. I started in this avenue making 43K. One year later, I got my CCNA and negotiated for a salary increase of 40%. I'm now the senior network engineer for the county. I'm approaching a professional level of experience in Juniper network equipment. I'm also specializing in Data Center routing and switch using EVPN and VXLAN as well VmWare NSX. I think the great thing about IT is that there are always new things to learn and the challenges that go with them. You can find something your passionate and excel. Plus you will get well compensated for your knowledge and expertise. Cheers!
Brother, you are 1,000,000% right! When I saw this video it was like I was listening to myself talk about what is important and why I’m in IT. I have a customer service (retail) background, and my degree is in photography! Yet I have progressed through the ranks and I am now getting promoted from Network Engineer to an IT Manager of the best team ever! And I’m not a Math fan either :) thank you for your videos!
100% true. I worked regular customer service jobs as well. My first good job was working in a copy center. Customer service was key there. Got a job as a copy machine tech from there which was my first IT job. From there became a PC tech and I’m currently a systems administrator. Customer service is great and all you need to start in IT.
This is one of the things that college have upper hand to certificates. The composition, public speaking, small group communication, and project management classes were insanely helpful. Good verbal and written communication skills are so important and cant be understated. As far as helpfulness, I got my network technician job with an ISP with just an associate's degree in Network Systems. Main reason, I communicated better than anyone in interviews. Including people way more experienced than me.
Honestly, I started as an executive assistant and transitioned to IT (help-desk). Then went from Desktop Support > Desktop Engineer > Telecommunications Engineer > Network Engineer > Now i'm a business analyst in my current job that basically connects the IT folks with the Business (specifically with Executives). Literally all of my jobs I obtained by just being personable. But of course, behind the scenes I would be digging through the depths of reddit, youtube, online tutorials and thrown away IT Books to get where I am. Obsessing to learn more. The drive is the second part of it but opportunities open in IT if you know how to talk to people.
I was medically separated from the Army and was looking for a new career. While working at Lowe's I received a email for a job opportunity in IT and honestly I thought it was a scam but I decided to "go along with it" just for fun. Turns out it was real and boy how lucky I am that I did not delete that email!
I’m a recent college grad/tech assistant for a public school I attended before college. I’m going for my CCNA this year to try and break through to the next phase of my career path. I’ve always loved tinkering with PCs and tech so IT is a perfect fit for me!
I started in IT this year. Why is it awesome? because Technology is amazing, which also is a passion of mine and has so much room to grow yourself as an individual.
TLDR- Learn proper diagnostic skills. I think the best skill to have in IT is good grasp of the scientific method and analytical skills. Many ITs are knowledgable but in general most are very poor in diagnosing issues. This also goes towards the problem of probability, or rather their poor grasp of it. They really don't have a feel for cause and effect and good intuition. Or the difference between the intermittent and constant issues. TLDR An interesting story. A hotel had LAN outage. Their server room was a mess of a dozen servers and network boxes. The remote support team didn't have a clear picture of the whole setup so they started telling me to randomly disconnect and connect bunch of cables. I, however, told them that the outage happened in the morning, when the room was LOCKED. Logically it couldn't be a wrong cable connection, because that would be a permanent outage instead of just suddenly going out. But they PERSISTED in telling me to RANDOMLY plug cables in different ports. In the end, it turned out to be the DNS/DHCP server that was off from a downed UPS, NOT a MISCONFIGURATION. Unless you're dealing with end users all day or you're autistic, communication skills aren't that hard. Just listen, interact, be patient, don't argue. It's really not that difficult. Most ITs I deal with are arrogant, never take advice and stubborn like mules. You can bring them solid evidence and they still won't believe you.
36 yrs old and going to school in the fall for Computer Information Systems. My resume is full of customer service jobs, from Starbucks to Registering Patients in a hospital. I can’t wait to start a career in IT
I got started by taking a IT course for my A+. Now I am studying for my CCNA. I think IT is awesome because you’re constantly learning, and the opportunities or endless.
I first got interested in IT because i'm fascinated by all of the amazing technology we have today that makes our world go around. We take alot of it for granted everyday and I'm just interested and passionate about learning as much of Information technology as I can and helping others while earning a good career.
I started out at a retail job in bestbuy, getting into IT completely changed my life for the better. Everything this man said is absolutely true. If you’re not in IT please take this mans advice seriously and consider going the IT route.
I started on the help desk in 2017 and now a software engineer and want to understand routing and switching. My original path was to become a network engineer by obtaining my ccna earlier this year. I would use this training product and send you my cert. You just tell me when you want it by my man!! You have helped me break the glass ceiling and I would love to repay you someway!
Started building computers when I was a teenager, did PC gaming and all that. Worked for the Fed Government for 6 years or so doing stuff not related to IT, all the while I was in the Marine Corps infantry reserves, finally quit my dead end government job where I literally played Xbox at work and started as a help desk lead for a large landscaping company. That was 2.5 years ago and I'm already making $20,000 more than I was when I started, have my A+ and MCSA. What's great about IT is the endless growth potential and ability to argue for salary increases based on applicable skills you've obtained, as well as the never ending challenges.
I use to pack products in freezing cold warehouse as i left school and went straight out to work. My Dad brought home a PC one day and i played about with it, and then really got hooked on how it all worked. I went to night school and learnt the mcse, but was hooked on how the network worked, it is fascinating. Networking is awsome and I'm currently looking at the ccnp course, after recently passing my ccna.
True. Managers will have your back when customers complain about things not getting done if you have great customer service skills. You can be getting behind, but as long as you have great customer service reputation, people will work with you when you get behind.
I’m a Network Engineer for Public K-12. My career started in high school. My original career track was criminal justice and after I love to Corpus Christ I switch to an IT track. I had to apply with a resume for a computer repair class and got in. Before I got out of HS I earned my CompTIA A+. We to college in the valley to eat a degree I partying and came back home after a year and went to work in the real world. Was working in a calll center when I got a call from my old teacher and boss from the district/HS I graduated from to apply for a computer tech position and got hired. Work there for 9 years amassing a variety of IT skills. Recently got hired as a Networking Engineer from my rival district after applying for the job 3 years earlier and finding out I was there second choice for the same job I applied for three years earlier. Love it here and love IT. Also customer service is a big skill to get under your belt, had a boss tell me she got a complaint that I didn’t talk to teachers doing my tickets. Lol I was just trying to be as efficient as possible.
He's right IT is now a big job demand. Another key skill is Multitasking. Starting my full time career in IT as an IT Coordinator after college 8 years ago and now currently an Technology Manager making over 6 figures. Trust me its not always easy but its worth it.
I started my IT career working at a computer retail store while attending community college pursing an associate in network administration. Great video!
Got into IT watching TV series "Chuck" (No kiddin). I thought tech is fun. And here I am trying to take CCNP, hoping to get boson netsim to help me with it.
Awesome video! I started in IT at 16 with a cisco netacad IT Essentials course, then I started the CCNA course and a year later I was CCNA certified!! and I was just starting college, three months later I found my first job as a network admin for the university in witch Im currently studying, and now Im starting to study for the CCNP R&S. I thing IT is the best thing you can do to change your life!!!
Great video Chuck, I worked in restaurants from 16-28. Restaurant hours are 3pm -2am and no weekends off. I always loved computers but thought I missed boat by not doing it right out of high school or going to college. I lost my restaurant manager job and took a job as entry level Tech Support for a company selling Point of Sale for restaurants. I started youtubeing everything I didn't know and found your channel and few others. A+ Net+ and CCNA. 3 years later I'm in infrastructure support for an MSP. 9-5 weekends off making decent money the room for growth is amazing and plenty of opportunity for advancement. No college all youtube.
I am currently the Director of IT for a 600 employee healthcare company. Just as Chuck has mentioned, customer service is a heavily desired skill. However, I would take it one step further and say “Be Personable”, get past the stereotype of IT and be a personable person. If you have the same skills,degree,certs and experience as someone else the one that is personable will get the job. It will also help you network and meet new people that can lead to more opportunities.
My story started with an A+ course and with some interest for IT. Finishing my network and security + showed me that i really love networking.Now i am getting ready for my icnd2.
I got started in IT when I was just 15.. I used to play a game called "Habbo Hotel", my account got hacked and I was DEVISTATED! Ever since that I've been fascinated with how they did it and wanted to learn more.. now I'm studying for my CCNA! :)
I've spent around 10 years working for a tech company, but not on a techie role. I got interested in networking and bought a book for ICND1, just to see if I could do it. Passed the exam with flying colours and now prepping for ICND2. I also recently changed jobs and am now working in an IT role in network engineering. It's a great feeling to see something pay off but now I just need to keep up the momentum and keep learning.
Got fed up on being constantly bored at work. With there being so much to learn and so many different paths within networking, I can't see that I will ever be bored again!
Hello Network Chuck, im looking into getting into IT, i have been in love with computers since i was kid, using Apple computers as well as various PC's for various tasks even producing electronic music. But never pursued a career in IT, even though ironically before i was gonna graduate HS i was gonna start in CIS in college, but Sadly through life choices and situations i didnt finish college and tried to become a audio engineer, which i got pretty far into a program that i was accepted to, but due to the decline in work in big studios i choose to get into the hvac-r/appliance repair industry, due to the necessities of life i have been in that industry for the last 10 years and i feel like i am not doing what i love. I make decent money now but im not passionate about it anymore. Technology is where is at for me. Since i am a service technician i totally understand about customer service and troubleshooting and being helpful and having a get it done attitude, anyways just wanted to say thanks for channels like yours it inspires me to move forward with my goals and love the videos, im gonna start to work on my A+ cert to start with so i can get a help desk job then work on my CCNA while im working as a help desk. Hopefully i can make my goal and become a network engineer
Went to a Cisco netacad in 2015 which inspired my love of networking and networks; been around computers all my life from the age of 2, taking em apart with my dad is one of my fondest memories.
a friend told me about CCNA after graduating 1st Degree, sounded cool as I always had a thing for I.T and here I am enjoying life now as Network Engineer.
Hi Chuck! This is Serbian from UK. Started working in IT several years ago after redirecting my career from law. It was love at first click. I've been Helpdesk agent, Incident Manager and now I am working as a Technical Engineer for a Luxury Car Brand in UK. Learning for my CCNA and MCSA. I have the CCNA in two months so I could really use some help :-) Wish me luck! Cheers!
22. Worked mostly restaurants and worked on my Networking Technology AAS. Realized in my help desk job that CompTIA A+ was pointless now so didn't spend the money. Got a trial of the Network+ from CompTIA. Realized that didn't matter now that I had my AAS. Focused on Server+ from CompTIA. Got my Server+, did virtualization at home in a home lab. Presented my findings to a job during the interview. Brought my resume, and a grocery list of items I had practiced at home on some old virtual machines / Packet Tracer labs by Cisco. Got hired as the IT Manager for 5 buildings and make plenty of money for being a 22 year old.
Right off college I got lucky and got offered a job in IT as a computer tech in a school district. And definitely I aggree with you customer service skills are very important skill, i believe if I didnt have that skill. I wouldn't be able to work in different school district and move up. I have deal with administration, teacher and even student. So I have to break down something technical to simple so the staff can understand. I totally agree with you Chuck.
Started looking for a career change and found your channel Chuck. You have given me the motivation and encouragement to pursue my goals and finally go for it. Thank you!
I started in a computer repair shop doing pretty much everithing. I now am the Directory of IT where I work at, where I manage a team of level 1-2-3 techs :)
First got interested in IT by stumbling upon this channel. Soon realised my interests had aligned alot more with the IT side of things than what I was currently studying, which was engineering. As many students will agree with me, it is quite difficult to afford any training so winning this would benefit me greatly.
Totally agree. I'm a Senior Systems Engineer and I interact with people daily. I also agree that a degree isn't required, everything I learned 10 years ago while getting an associates degree is completely obsolete. Though I make a good amount of money and only have an A+. Most of my employers have told me that they don't care about certs, but do care about experience. In order to get experience you need a degree or certs, and the latter is a much cheaper start!
I'm a great tech and computer enthusiast and working in the IT for years. Your video gave me great inspiration about making my own video on why working in IT sucks in reality.
I started with the communications side of things working for data companies installing new line signaling and verification. I then knew that I could understand networking much better so I applied myself and found Network Chuck. I got my first help desk job and learned for a whole year. Mind you still no certs just gaining experience. I have now landed a Job as a Jr Windows System Admin making over 50K. God is good!
Got out of the military a few months ago now Just started my IT journey. Aiming to start off with my MTA certs then work my way through compTIA. your videos are inspiring!
At the age of 20, I was introduced to a program called YearUp in San Francisco. This program trains young adults from the ages of 18-24 with real-world corporate skills within a year. When I was accepted into this program I had no idea that I would take an interest in Information Technology during the first six months was really crucial since I had no background experience in tech, Although it was also the most fun I had years. This where I learned all the basic fundamentals from disassembling and rebuild my first computer to working with windows active directory and with Cisco packet tracer. The other six months I placed into an internship where I had to apply everything I had learned from the beginning of my learning & development face in order get some experience to see what its like have an IT Helpdesk position. Luckily I was placed in a company called Docker (I believe you talked previously about this company in some of your videos in the past) here for the last five months I have learned and acquire a tremendous amount of experience as a service desk associate. I had a great time during my internship but all fun things must come to an end. Right now I am currently in my last month of internship but would like to continue to learn more about the fields. I have been more interested in getting involved with cybersecurity more than anything else and even took a few online courses through LinkedIn learning in order to acquire my Security + 501 certificate. I really enjoy being in the IT field and would really like to continue this career for a long period time, I also know that CCNA is a completely different path from Cyber Security but it this seem like an opportunity to get more into depth with Networking. Overall I strongly believe IT is really fun and challenging career and the game is constantly changeling so its really ever the same. This why I believe IT is cool career and many others young adults like me in the Bay Area. This video can describe the program a lot more better than me, feel free to check it out. www.yearup.org/stories/opportunity-divide/
I always stress this fact as well. It can definitely differentiate you from many IT professionals. The people that do the best in IT are generally the most charismatic.
I've been doing IT since my army days. Mainly cause I didn't pass the test needed for another job. But after 6 years of doing IT. It just makes sense....maybe more sense than I do myself at times. It used to be about the money. Now I just want to be good at it for my own sake. I this goal of being one of the most sought networking and cloud professionals in Seattle. I plan on achieving that.
Well after my Diploma I needed a job, but had no idea how to get one in a technical field. Joined a Hardware&Networking course and fortunately after that i landed my first job as a system administrator. During the course I had heard about the CCNA path and I wanna go down that line.
I have been in IT for 10 + years and I stagnated for the first 10. I have since been watching individuals such as Network Chuck and Kevin Wallace that have helped me put together a game plan and I now have A+, Net+, and just recently finished by CCNA.
Chuck, I disagree... The ONE Skill you need, not just in IT but in other profession is (Atleast I believe) is Continuous Learning. But customer service / people skills / selling are some of the most difficult skill to possess in all types of industry.
Sheen Ismhael Lim You have a good point, because your IT Certifications expire and new certification are always available. But if you compare two candidates in an interview situation with the same certifications, I think the one with the best people skills and communication skill will always get the job first
Not to discount your comment but continues learning is not a skill it's more of discipline, communication, on the other hand, is the most valuable skill you can have not just in IT but in life in general.
I believe that's on a different "layer", more generic, on what it takes to be successful. Fully agree that what you said is arguably the most important thing a professional must have, but this here is IT-wise.
I Started in IT back I'm high school while joining a computer club. IT is awesome because you can literally learn anything and you can branch out to different specializations.
Hey Chuck. Many years ago I watched one of your cbt nuggets videos. At that instant I fell in love. I found what I want to do for the rest of my life. I agree you NEvER get bored. Overwhelme yea sometimes... but never bored. You helped me discover my passion so thank you. If not you I don't know what I would do with my life. I don't have degree neither was never good at school... makes me happy to see you after all this years. :* thank you chuck...
Started building computers for fun when i was in sixth grade. Went to college for an economics degree and now have decided it is better to go into networking as i do a bit for my current job but with really no formal training. So just trying to better myself now.
Get motivated by you kevin and the creative leader David bombal trying to shift my career from banking to IT . By studying the ccna and wish I could get the ccnp rs and ccnp security one day . God bless you both and thanks for your time and effort . You are doing miracles here guys . My English can't help me to express my appreciation to you guys . Many many thanks and wish you the best . You deserve the very best guys . Thank you ❤️
I just referred a young 17 yo kid to your channel who is in a networking votech class. Says it's too hard and is considering quitting IT all together even though he loves programming. I told him to check out your channel for some of the inspiration and motivation you've provided me. Thanks for the content that keeps me pushing through CCNA self study.
I got started at a helpdesk with enough computer knowledge to be dangerous. After three more helpdesk jobs, I make a very good living and have no college degree.
Started on a helpdesk at $12/hr, 6 years later I'm over $100k/yr. I'm a high school dropout. ANYONE can make a good living doing this if willing to put in the time to become competent.
hi how did you start up? cause im willing to learn too
What's your current position?
thats inspiring af!
salute bro
Freshman 3 times in a row dropped out a few months ago hit 5k constantly looking for knowledge aiming for 6 figures by the end of this year
I am an introvert too, but when the topic is something that I am passionate about, I can talk like an extrovert 😅
Amen! I almost become a different person when I talk about this stuff!
Hi... May I request to get my button back just like I did? Thank you very much
@@NetworkChuck cazy
well, haha
Bro same
He's correct. IT is a fantastic career to have. Network Engineer, Programmer, DevOps, and Cyber Security are just 4 areas where you can have a long and full career in IT.
Being a Developer/Programmer is an entirely different career path though...? It's not exactly "IT" is it? There are huge differences. I know software engineers that don't know computers AT ALL, believe it!
Hi... May I request to get my button back just like I did? Thank you very much
is this is still relevant , two years on?
@@culvercity5922 He's got a point. Most of the biggest milestones, in my IT career (3 years so far), involved being able to describe to people who don't really understand their phones, What i'm doing and what causes the need for troubleshooting. like when the wi-fi goes out suddenly.
@@SamAndrew27 Man with an IT BS . You can do any job that a computer science major gets .
Chuck is one of the best out there. He is more concerned about our success than we are
I'm not officially in IT yet, but you and Du'An Lightfoot give me the motivation to pursue it.
Ty Jarrett same. Exactly the same. The hands down two best, most encouraging and inspiring youtubers talking about networking. Changing my life right now.
Between Chuck and Jorge from Network Engineering Academy I'm motivated to pursue this, too!
I keep 2 playlists of things for people to watch of youtube videos on various things in IT to help people. I've been trying to organize them in my spare time.
I hear so many ppl hear my age (38) and say I can't. I'm going to pursue this whether or not someone agrees but it was nice to know I can. It was good to hear it
I'm a mom of two and looking to start a new career in the IT field. Network Chuck's videos have been a huge help getting started and building confidence on the topic. If Chuck can be a family man and still self study, surely I can too.
Agreed. I've done a customer service and a help desk job before, and I found that the people skills I learned from customer service more valuable the technical knowledge. You can be the biggest tech nerd in the world, but if you don't know how to serve others with that knowledge, you will likely struggle in the field. BTW, taking CCNA in January!
#subscribetodavidboson
Hi... May I request to get my button back just like I did? Im currently build my channel related to Information Technology...Thank you very much
100% what you and NetworkChuck said. Myself, I've worked for 12 years in retail customer service. When I made the leap to corporate IT, had my customer service skills not been as high to be able to build great rapport with both external and internal clients I absolutely would have been fired. My ticket closure count (which at that time was the only metric that people really cared about) was constantly short of quota. Despite my quality of work (re-opened tickets with my name attached were extremely rare)
Luckily management listened to my arguments regarding the necessity of customer service and quality of work, as well as analyzing my positive feedback received and they have since changed how metrics are measured and I'm still happily employed. :)
PS: Hope your CCNA test was successful!
IT is awesome, people skills is a must along with ton of patience. I been in support for 4 years, this morning i passed my CCNA continuning my IT education! People like Chuck inspire me to succeed. Thanks man!
Hi... May I request to get my button back just like I did? Im currently build my channel related to Information Technology...Thank you very much
How are you doing? (I know it's been 4 years since you commented)
@@pantherman8719 wow time flies I been doing awesome! I’m a Senior Network engineer now working on Cisco SDA and doing network refreshes for biggest gaming company in Vegas.
Joined the Marine Corps right after highschool not knowing what I would want to do in college. Signed up under the general communications electrician contract and apparently scored high enough on tests that my MOS would be 0651 Cyber Network Operator. I did my 4 years in the military and continued in IT afterwards getting a helpdesk job at my community college while getting my A.A.S in Network Administration. Just recently landed a new job without the CCNA and I'm working from home. Using my free time studying and will be taking the CCENT early next year. I would love the Boson NetSim!
Semper Fidelis Jacob!!
Jacob Smith Semper Fi Marine!
Winner of Boson NetSim 12 for CCNA:
Jibby Esuruoso
I fallen in IT world when i was an a student. I love resemble computer hardware. Made my own PC then now i am a IT support and helpdesk. 😁
Hi... May I request to get my button back just like I did? Im currently build my channel related to Information Technology...Thank you very much
Love all your content sir! I started my career doing Financial auditing, switched into IT auditing, and now pursuing a career path of cybersecurity, specifically focused in networking and Infrastructure. I love all the opportunity in IT and I can attest that strong communication skills are key for IT, especially when you have to create relationships with teams in different disciplines within your organization.
I have my CISA certification and I'm hoping to get my Comptia A+, Network +, and Security + by end of 2019.
I'm in IT helping design, implement, and maintain my company's global data centers. I love it! Being able to talk to people is a BIG skill to have, started working retail, so it helped. Being able to talk to vendors and co-workers help, and if you want to ever get into management.. communication is a large part of that, we need more managers in IT!
I started in the Custodial Department with my company. Started doing IT stuff on the side with some awesome friends who encouraged me to study! :) The company took notice of my skills and offer me a position on the help desk. Now I'm being looked at to move into a Jr. network admin position. I've been studying for my ICND1 for about 7 months. I tried once and missed passing by 2 questions, but I will not give up :). The field of IT is wide open for those with zero college education if you have the drive to learn. Thank you Chuck for being so encouraging!
Just found your video by searching "what I do in IT" you answered all my questions and made me feel excited about pursuing this as a career.
Last year I won the david bombal Packet tracker lab course. Since then I have earned my CCENT. I have scheduled my ICND2 for January and also booked my ccna security and design for later in the year. Also I got hired for an IT job in seattle, WA for a small startup so I will be moving from FL. The boson netsim will be a great tool to aid me in my journey!
Congrats!!!
I started by building my first Computer in 2013. All self taught with no help. I started to study for my A+ shortly after and was able to get a job at a local School ISD for technology support. Went to school, and now have a BS in Computer Science (Cyber Security) and am looking to get my CCNA in Feb.
Started IT two years ago and I love it. I'm never bored and I love what I do.
I started in IT on accident fell in love with it and looking to forward my career. Even with no certs I already make pretty good money.
I got started in IT back when I was in high school helping out the IT department because the school I went to made me have 300 hrs community service hours. Their they taught me how to build and re-image computers. After that I joined the Marine Corps where they taught me cabling and switchboards and then moved to CUCM. Worked with the data marines on configuring switches and troubleshooting them. They did the work and I watched them and picked up a lot. Enough to know what I needed to explain issues back to my higher ups. Did that for eight years. Then when I got out I have been working as a field technician installing data/fiber. Just recently started at the local college for my ccna.
Yes! Being able to talk to people is such an important skill. It sounds trivial but IT people often are stereotyped with being antisocial and awkward.
You get treated like a rock star when they think that you can fix their computers problems and generally make life easier.
The pay is pretty good especially the more you get into IT and there's so many tracks in IT that it's hard to be bored. Especially, as a woman in IT, you'll stand out for sure.
Along with people skills, you've got to be learning on your off time as well to keep up with continuing technologies.
Being a part of technology excites me. And just like you said... you never get bored in IT field.
I worked almost 20 years. I been working since the age of 9 and have done a little bit of everything. I have almost 4 years in IT and I love it. I love touching new technology everyday, I love dealing with people and I love learning new stuff everyday. Technology is always changing and you need to change too if you want to work in technology. By change, I mean have good customer service. The customer doesn't care about the technical jargon, they only care if you fix or solved the problem. Having the right balance and knowing how to talk to people without making it sound complicated is a big plus in IT. You can't teach customer service, this takes time to learn.
I have been in customer service in every job I've had in and out of IT. My first IT jobs began in Technical support and lastly as a PC Technician. Now I am a Exchange Administrator for clients all over the US migrating and transitioning to Microsoft servers.
Biggest tip if you're wanting to get into IT. Keep learning new things.
I'm 27, lost my amazing job as admin and manager in airbnb related business due to Covid19. I always liked IT. It'll be a journey that I'm starting now! Thank you for inspiration!
I lucked out and got in from a friend. Always keep your connections and never burn bridges!
I started out in my Aunt's guest room tearing apart computers and almost "Frankensteining" them together. I did it without a problem and amazingly they worked. From there I decided to continue to follow the IT field.
I was a social media customer service rep for a big cell phone provider, got laid off in 2014. Got hired that same year by a telco, worked my way up and eventually got my ccna. I'm a voice engineer that knows routing and switching, 2017 I landed a job with a financial company with a six figure salary. Chuck is right, every time I go to an interview what always stands out is my customer service experience. One thing to add, now in days companies look for individuals that are knowledgeable in various fields. In my case I have a lot of experience with SIP, ISUP(voice)and provisioned BGP circuits.
Just jumped on an entry level analyst postion for a Satellite and Networking team. Getting involved in the pit with the big boys. So I have to push myself harder to speak the lingo and binary flow these guys live, and breath daily. I love it.
I started in IT by working at a call center for my local ISP. I've majored in IT for my first college and went to ASU for software engineering. Currently working on my CCNA.
@@RockySeay I enjoyed it. Honestly though, most of the classes did not help in my career. I'm a network tech, so if I know how to code pacman doesnt really help haha.
@@RockySeay knowledge wise I would have felt just as comfortable before the schooling as I did after. A degree in software engineering or computer science is just to get your foot in the door or advance to a managment position. Most of the real learning will happen outside of school when working on side projects or work in my experience.
Hi... May I request to get my button back just like I did? Im currently build my channel related to Information Technology...Thank you very much
Fell in love with IT in the marine corps, I’m getting out now and am very confident and excited to continue my career in IT. Started out as a 2821 Technical controller and am now a 0631 Network Administrator. I’m pumped!
Another skill we will always need is watching your videos.
Chuck you are the best
Hi Network Chuck,
I've been involved with IT from very early in my life. I remember playing on an old IBM PC Junior. I lived through the days of 286 and 386 playing text adventure games. I also modified DOS files to get sound to work for games on my Sound Blaster 16 audio card. Going through highschool, I never thought I'd work in IT.
I entered the Army National Guard in October of 1999 to pay for college. I worked mostly on radios, but the war brought several deployments and the catch of the Army in network technology. On my last deployment, I was the automation shop supervisor. We did desktop/laptop and server imagining and managing the routers and switches for the base I was at. This is where the networking bug bit me. I loved being on the Cisco CLI and I started studying networking in depth. After I got back from my deployment, I started doing various networking contracts. I finally got hired on with a local county governments IT department as a Network Engineer. I had no certifications or degrees, just hard work I put it.
I started in this avenue making 43K. One year later, I got my CCNA and negotiated for a salary increase of 40%.
I'm now the senior network engineer for the county. I'm approaching a professional level of experience in Juniper network equipment.
I'm also specializing in Data Center routing and switch using EVPN and VXLAN as well VmWare NSX.
I think the great thing about IT is that there are always new things to learn and the challenges that go with them. You can find something your passionate and excel. Plus you will get well compensated for your knowledge and expertise.
Cheers!
Brother, you are 1,000,000% right! When I saw this video it was like I was listening to myself talk about what is important and why I’m in IT. I have a customer service (retail) background, and my degree is in photography! Yet I have progressed through the ranks and I am now getting promoted from Network Engineer to an IT Manager of the best team ever! And I’m not a Math fan either :) thank you for your videos!
100% true. I worked regular customer service jobs as well. My first good job was working in a copy center. Customer service was key there. Got a job as a copy machine tech from there which was my first IT job. From there became a PC tech and I’m currently a systems administrator. Customer service is great and all you need to start in IT.
I got started in college. Internship really opened my eyes. Soak up people around you in IT
This is one of the things that college have upper hand to certificates. The composition, public speaking, small group communication, and project management classes were insanely helpful. Good verbal and written communication skills are so important and cant be understated.
As far as helpfulness, I got my network technician job with an ISP with just an associate's degree in Network Systems. Main reason, I communicated better than anyone in interviews. Including people way more experienced than me.
Honestly, I started as an executive assistant and transitioned to IT (help-desk). Then went from Desktop Support > Desktop Engineer > Telecommunications Engineer > Network Engineer > Now i'm a business analyst in my current job that basically connects the IT folks with the Business (specifically with Executives).
Literally all of my jobs I obtained by just being personable. But of course, behind the scenes I would be digging through the depths of reddit, youtube, online tutorials and thrown away IT Books to get where I am. Obsessing to learn more. The drive is the second part of it but opportunities open in IT if you know how to talk to people.
I was medically separated from the Army and was looking for a new career. While working at Lowe's I received a email for a job opportunity in IT and honestly I thought it was a scam but I decided to "go along with it" just for fun. Turns out it was real and boy how lucky I am that I did not delete that email!
I’m a recent college grad/tech assistant for a public school I attended before college. I’m going for my CCNA this year to try and break through to the next phase of my career path. I’ve always loved tinkering with PCs and tech so IT is a perfect fit for me!
I started in IT this year. Why is it awesome? because Technology is amazing, which also is a passion of mine and has so much room to grow yourself as an individual.
TLDR- Learn proper diagnostic skills.
I think the best skill to have in IT is good grasp of the scientific method and analytical skills. Many ITs are knowledgable but in general most are very poor in diagnosing issues. This also goes towards the problem of probability, or rather their poor grasp of it. They really don't have a feel for cause and effect and good intuition. Or the difference between the intermittent and constant issues.
TLDR
An interesting story. A hotel had LAN outage. Their server room was a mess of a dozen servers and network boxes. The remote support team didn't have a clear picture of the whole setup so they started telling me to randomly disconnect and connect bunch of cables. I, however, told them that the outage happened in the morning, when the room was LOCKED. Logically it couldn't be a wrong cable connection, because that would be a permanent outage instead of just suddenly going out. But they PERSISTED in telling me to RANDOMLY plug cables in different ports. In the end, it turned out to be the DNS/DHCP server that was off from a downed UPS, NOT a MISCONFIGURATION.
Unless you're dealing with end users all day or you're autistic, communication skills aren't that hard. Just listen, interact, be patient, don't argue. It's really not that difficult. Most ITs I deal with are arrogant, never take advice and stubborn like mules. You can bring them solid evidence and they still won't believe you.
36 yrs old and going to school in the fall for Computer Information Systems. My resume is full of customer service jobs, from Starbucks to Registering Patients in a hospital. I can’t wait to start a career in IT
I started in IT watching your videos. I love them
I got started by taking a IT course for my A+. Now I am studying for my CCNA. I think IT is awesome because you’re constantly learning, and the opportunities or endless.
I first got interested in IT because i'm fascinated by all of the amazing technology we have today that makes our world go around. We take alot of it for granted everyday and I'm just interested and passionate about learning as much of Information technology as I can and helping others while earning a good career.
I started out at a retail job in bestbuy, getting into IT completely changed my life for the better. Everything this man said is absolutely true. If you’re not in IT please take this mans advice seriously and consider going the IT route.
I started on the help desk in 2017 and now a software engineer and want to understand routing and switching. My original path was to become a network engineer by obtaining my ccna earlier this year. I would use this training product and send you my cert. You just tell me when you want it by my man!! You have helped me break the glass ceiling and I would love to repay you someway!
I got into this because I was looking to build a 10GB network with old cisco equipment. Now its definitely a career choice
Started building computers when I was a teenager, did PC gaming and all that. Worked for the Fed Government for 6 years or so doing stuff not related to IT, all the while I was in the Marine Corps infantry reserves, finally quit my dead end government job where I literally played Xbox at work and started as a help desk lead for a large landscaping company. That was 2.5 years ago and I'm already making $20,000 more than I was when I started, have my A+ and MCSA. What's great about IT is the endless growth potential and ability to argue for salary increases based on applicable skills you've obtained, as well as the never ending challenges.
I'm actually at Lowe's selling toilets now lol. I'm going after my certification now.
Cool
Update?
What Cert exactly?
Hi... May I request to get my button back just like I did? Thank you very much
Any updates?
I started IT when I joined the Army as a network switching systems operator
Hi... May I request to get my button back just like I did? Im currently build my channel related to Information Technology...Thank you very much
I use to pack products in freezing cold warehouse as i left school and went straight out to work. My Dad brought home a PC one day and i played about with it, and then really got hooked on how it all worked. I went to night school and learnt the mcse, but was hooked on how the network worked, it is fascinating. Networking is awsome and I'm currently looking at the ccnp course, after recently passing my ccna.
True. Managers will have your back when customers complain about things not getting done if you have great customer service skills. You can be getting behind, but as long as you have great customer service reputation, people will work with you when you get behind.
The skill I need is to have a beautiful beard like that 😂😂
Hi... May I request to get my button back just like I did? Im currently build my channel related to Information Technology...Thank you very much
I’m a Network Engineer for Public K-12. My career started in high school. My original career track was criminal justice and after I love to Corpus Christ I switch to an IT track. I had to apply with a resume for a computer repair class and got in. Before I got out of HS I earned my CompTIA A+. We to college in the valley to eat a degree I partying and came back home after a year and went to work in the real world. Was working in a calll center when I got a call from my old teacher and boss from the district/HS I graduated from to apply for a computer tech position and got hired. Work there for 9 years amassing a variety of IT skills. Recently got hired as a Networking Engineer from my rival district after applying for the job 3 years earlier and finding out I was there second choice for the same job I applied for three years earlier. Love it here and love IT. Also customer service is a big skill to get under your belt, had a boss tell me she got a complaint that I didn’t talk to teachers doing my tickets. Lol I was just trying to be as efficient as possible.
He's right IT is now a big job demand. Another key skill is Multitasking. Starting my full time career in IT as an IT Coordinator after college 8 years ago and now currently an Technology Manager making over 6 figures. Trust me its not always easy but its worth it.
I started my IT career working at a computer retail store while attending community college pursing an associate in network administration. Great video!
Got into IT watching TV series "Chuck" (No kiddin). I thought tech is fun. And here I am trying to take CCNP, hoping to get boson netsim to help me with it.
Awesome video! I started in IT at 16 with a cisco netacad IT Essentials course, then I started the CCNA course and a year later I was CCNA certified!! and I was just starting college, three months later I found my first job as a network admin for the university in witch Im currently studying, and now Im starting to study for the CCNP R&S. I thing IT is the best thing you can do to change your life!!!
Great video Chuck, I worked in restaurants from 16-28. Restaurant hours are 3pm -2am and no weekends off. I always loved computers but thought I missed boat by not doing it right out of high school or going to college. I lost my restaurant manager job and took a job as entry level Tech Support for a company selling Point of Sale for restaurants. I started youtubeing everything I didn't know and found your channel and few others. A+ Net+ and CCNA. 3 years later I'm in infrastructure support for an MSP. 9-5 weekends off making decent money the room for growth is amazing and plenty of opportunity for advancement. No college all youtube.
#DropaBOMBal Winners:
Prize: CCNA Full Course
Obscured Boat
Geo
Shawn Duncan
Will
steveo9043
Didn't win? Get the course here: bit.ly/2BJazQG
I am currently the Director of IT for a 600 employee healthcare company. Just as Chuck has mentioned, customer service is a heavily desired skill. However, I would take it one step further and say “Be Personable”, get past the stereotype of IT and be a personable person. If you have the same skills,degree,certs and experience as someone else the one that is personable will get the job. It will also help you network and meet new people that can lead to more opportunities.
My story started with an A+ course and with some interest for IT. Finishing my network and security + showed me that i really love networking.Now i am getting ready for my icnd2.
I got started in IT when I was just 15.. I used to play a game called "Habbo Hotel", my account got hacked and I was DEVISTATED! Ever since that I've been fascinated with how they did it and wanted to learn more.. now I'm studying for my CCNA! :)
Stared in POS Help desk and now I am a Systems Admin. It is awesome to help people. Just wish I never went to school to avoid the debt.
I've spent around 10 years working for a tech company, but not on a techie role. I got interested in networking and bought a book for ICND1, just to see if I could do it. Passed the exam with flying colours and now prepping for ICND2. I also recently changed jobs and am now working in an IT role in network engineering. It's a great feeling to see something pay off but now I just need to keep up the momentum and keep learning.
Got fed up on being constantly bored at work. With there being so much to learn and so many different paths within networking, I can't see that I will ever be bored again!
Hello Network Chuck, im looking into getting into IT, i have been in love with computers since i was kid, using Apple computers as well as various PC's for various tasks even producing electronic music. But never pursued a career in IT, even though ironically before i was gonna graduate HS i was gonna start in CIS in college, but Sadly through life choices and situations i didnt finish college and tried to become a audio engineer, which i got pretty far into a program that i was accepted to, but due to the decline in work in big studios i choose to get into the hvac-r/appliance repair industry, due to the necessities of life i have been in that industry for the last 10 years and i feel like i am not doing what i love. I make decent money now but im not passionate about it anymore. Technology is where is at for me. Since i am a service technician i totally understand about customer service and troubleshooting and being helpful and having a get it done attitude, anyways just wanted to say thanks for channels like yours it inspires me to move forward with my goals and love the videos, im gonna start to work on my A+ cert to start with so i can get a help desk job then work on my CCNA while im working as a help desk. Hopefully i can make my goal and become a network engineer
Went to a Cisco netacad in 2015 which inspired my love of networking and networks; been around computers all my life from the age of 2, taking em apart with my dad is one of my fondest memories.
a friend told me about CCNA after graduating 1st Degree, sounded cool as I always had a thing for I.T and here I am enjoying life now as Network Engineer.
Hi Chuck! This is Serbian from UK. Started working in IT several years ago after redirecting my career from law. It was love at first click. I've been Helpdesk agent, Incident Manager and now I am working as a Technical Engineer for a Luxury Car Brand in UK. Learning for my CCNA and MCSA. I have the CCNA in two months so I could really use some help :-) Wish me luck! Cheers!
I got started when a friend from high school went on his church mission at 19. They needed someone to replace him and he recommended me for the job.
I’m 19 and I’ve been working in IT for 3 years now and all I can say is that the opportunity’s it has gave me are amazing
22. Worked mostly restaurants and worked on my Networking Technology AAS. Realized in my help desk job that CompTIA A+ was pointless now so didn't spend the money. Got a trial of the Network+ from CompTIA. Realized that didn't matter now that I had my AAS. Focused on Server+ from CompTIA. Got my Server+, did virtualization at home in a home lab. Presented my findings to a job during the interview. Brought my resume, and a grocery list of items I had practiced at home on some old virtual machines / Packet Tracer labs by Cisco. Got hired as the IT Manager for 5 buildings and make plenty of money for being a 22 year old.
Right off college I got lucky and got offered a job in IT as a computer tech in a school district. And definitely I aggree with you customer service skills are very important skill, i believe if I didnt have that skill. I wouldn't be able to work in different school district and move up. I have deal with administration, teacher and even student. So I have to break down something technical to simple so the staff can understand. I totally agree with you Chuck.
Started looking for a career change and found your channel Chuck. You have given me the motivation and encouragement to pursue my goals and finally go for it. Thank you!
I started in a computer repair shop doing pretty much everithing. I now am the Directory of IT where I work at, where I manage a team of level 1-2-3 techs :)
First got interested in IT by stumbling upon this channel. Soon realised my interests had aligned alot more with the IT side of things than what I was currently studying, which was engineering. As many students will agree with me, it is quite difficult to afford any training so winning this would benefit me greatly.
Totally agree. I'm a Senior Systems Engineer and I interact with people daily. I also agree that a degree isn't required, everything I learned 10 years ago while getting an associates degree is completely obsolete. Though I make a good amount of money and only have an A+. Most of my employers have told me that they don't care about certs, but do care about experience. In order to get experience you need a degree or certs, and the latter is a much cheaper start!
I'm a great tech and computer enthusiast and working in the IT for years. Your video gave me great inspiration about making my own video on why working in IT sucks in reality.
I started with the communications side of things working for data companies installing new line signaling and verification. I then knew that I could understand networking much better so I applied myself and found Network Chuck. I got my first help desk job and learned for a whole year. Mind you still no certs just gaining experience. I have now landed a Job as a Jr Windows System Admin making over 50K. God is good!
Got out of the military a few months ago now Just started my IT journey. Aiming to start off with my MTA certs then work my way through compTIA. your videos are inspiring!
I totally agree with you. Customer service skills is essential for IT specially the front desk/Support personnel.
Thank you for this video all the way from South Africa!
The reason I became a IT is that I love playing with technology and the never ending learning!!!!
At the age of 20, I was introduced to a program called YearUp in San Francisco. This program trains young adults from the ages of 18-24 with real-world corporate skills within a year. When I was accepted into this program I had no idea that I would take an interest in Information Technology during the first six months was really crucial since I had no background experience in tech, Although it was also the most fun I had years. This where I learned all the basic fundamentals from disassembling and rebuild my first computer to working with windows active directory and with Cisco packet tracer. The other six months I placed into an internship where I had to apply everything I had learned from the beginning of my learning & development face in order get some experience to see what its like have an IT Helpdesk position. Luckily I was placed in a company called Docker (I believe you talked previously about this company in some of your videos in the past) here for the last five months I have learned and acquire a tremendous amount of experience as a service desk associate. I had a great time during my internship but all fun things must come to an end. Right now I am currently in my last month of internship but would like to continue to learn more about the fields. I have been more interested in getting involved with cybersecurity more than anything else and even took a few online courses through LinkedIn learning in order to acquire my Security + 501 certificate. I really enjoy being in the IT field and would really like to continue this career for a long period time, I also know that CCNA is a completely different path from Cyber Security but it this seem like an opportunity to get more into depth with Networking. Overall I strongly believe IT is really fun and challenging career and the game is constantly changeling so its really ever the same. This why I believe IT is cool career and many others young adults like me in the Bay Area. This video can describe the program a lot more better than me, feel free to check it out. www.yearup.org/stories/opportunity-divide/
I always stress this fact as well. It can definitely differentiate you from many IT professionals. The people that do the best in IT are generally the most charismatic.
I've been doing IT since my army days. Mainly cause I didn't pass the test needed for another job. But after 6 years of doing IT. It just makes sense....maybe more sense than I do myself at times. It used to be about the money. Now I just want to be good at it for my own sake. I this goal of being one of the most sought networking and cloud professionals in Seattle. I plan on achieving that.
Well after my Diploma I needed a job, but had no idea how to get one in a technical field. Joined a Hardware&Networking course and fortunately after that i landed my first job as a system administrator. During the course I had heard about the CCNA path and I wanna go down that line.
I have been in IT for 10 + years and I stagnated for the first 10. I have since been watching individuals such as Network Chuck and Kevin Wallace that have helped me put together a game plan and I now have A+, Net+, and just recently finished by CCNA.
I networked for an IT head this past semester. The first thing I was told is to have excellent guest/customer relationship skills.
Chuck, I disagree... The ONE Skill you need, not just in IT but in other profession is (Atleast I believe) is Continuous Learning. But customer service / people skills / selling are some of the most difficult skill to possess in all types of industry.
Sheen Ismhael Lim You have a good point, because your IT Certifications expire and new certification are always available.
But if you compare two candidates in an interview situation with the same certifications, I think the one with the best people skills and communication skill will always get the job first
True
And being curious, couldn't say it better myself.
Not to discount your comment but continues learning is not a skill it's more of discipline, communication, on the other hand, is the most valuable skill you can have not just in IT but in life in general.
I believe that's on a different "layer", more generic, on what it takes to be successful. Fully agree that what you said is arguably the most important thing a professional must have, but this here is IT-wise.
I Started in IT back I'm high school while joining a computer club. IT is awesome because you can literally learn anything and you can branch out to different specializations.
Hey Chuck. Many years ago I watched one of your cbt nuggets videos. At that instant I fell in love. I found what I want to do for the rest of my life. I agree you NEvER get bored. Overwhelme yea sometimes... but never bored. You helped me discover my passion so thank you. If not you I don't know what I would do with my life. I don't have degree neither was never good at school... makes me happy to see you after all this years. :* thank you chuck...
Started building computers for fun when i was in sixth grade. Went to college for an economics degree and now have decided it is better to go into networking as i do a bit for my current job but with really no formal training. So just trying to better myself now.
Get motivated by you kevin and the creative leader David bombal trying to shift my career from banking to IT . By studying the ccna and wish I could get the ccnp rs and ccnp security one day . God bless you both and thanks for your time and effort . You are doing miracles here guys . My English can't help me to express my appreciation to you guys . Many many thanks and wish you the best . You deserve the very best guys . Thank you ❤️
I just referred a young 17 yo kid to your channel who is in a networking votech class. Says it's too hard and is considering quitting IT all together even though he loves programming. I told him to check out your channel for some of the inspiration and motivation you've provided me. Thanks for the content that keeps me pushing through CCNA self study.
I got started at a helpdesk with enough computer knowledge to be dangerous. After three more helpdesk jobs, I make a very good living and have no college degree.