December 27, 2023 • 30 mins
Have you ever found yourself staring at the ceiling, contemplating if it’s too late to pivot your career towards your true passion? Professor JRod joins us to share his own enlightening transition into IT, proving it’s never too late to teach old dogs new tricks. Facing down ageism and the haunting specter of being 'overqualified', Jay Rod's narrative is one of courage and the pursuit of a fulfilling career in guiding aspiring IT professionals. His story isn't just about change; it's an homage to the power of belief and the incredible support that can come from unexpected places. It’s a conversation that will leave you inspired, equipped with the confidence to take that leap of faith you've been dreaming about.
Curious about what the CompTIA A+ certification can do for your tech career? We've got that covered too. Professor Jay Rod breaks down the weight this certification carries within the industry and why it’s a golden ticket in the global IT landscape. From London to Los Angeles, this certification is your key to unlocking advanced career opportunities. For those of you mapping out a fresh career trail, get ready for a backpack full of practical advice. We’re talking about leveraging your LinkedIn profile, networking like a pro, and why internships or volunteering can give you the edge you need. If you’re on the brink of a career transformation, this episode is your strategic companion for a journey filled with learning, growth, and self-discovery.
If you want to help me with my research please e-mail me.
Professorjrod@gmail.com
If you want to join my question/answer zoom class e-mail me at
Professorjrod@gmail.com
Art By Sarah/Desmond
Music by Joakim Karud
Little chacha Productions
Juan Rodriguez can be reached at
TikTok @ProfessorJrod
ProfessorJRod@gmail.com
@Prof_JRod
Instagram ProfessorJRod
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Transcript
Episode Transcript
Available transcripts are automatically generated. Complete accuracy is not guaranteed.
Speaker 1 (00:28):
And welcome to technology tap.
I'm Professor Jay Rott in thisepisode.
It's the end of the year, guys.
Let's talk about what we'regonna do for the next year.
Let's get into it, alright?
(01:09):
Hello everyone.
While that transition wentsmooth, so it's the end of the
year, actually for the.
For those of you who arehearing me for the first time,
this is technology tap and I'mProfessor Jay Rod JROD.
You can reach me at my email,professor Jay rod, at gmailcom.
(01:30):
I'm on Instagram, professor JayRod, and I'm on LinkedIn, not
LinkedIn TikTok, professor JayRod, also on there.
I just wanted to.
You know this is the end of theyear, so I figured you know
there's a lot of people.
A happy holidays everyone, bythe way.
(01:50):
But as the end of the yearapproaches, you know I know
there are people out there whoare thinking about making a
career change.
Right, they want to start 2024with a whole new state of mind.
They want to be able to go into2024, you know, with certain
goals and probably what some ofthe certain goals is changing
(02:13):
your career, and I know this istough and you know it might be a
little bit of a sticky topicfor some people, but I know what
it's like to want to changeyour careers.
You know, and I did it late.
You know, like as everyone youknow, you do it late.
You, I was in my 40s when Idecided to change to academia
(02:40):
and I was actually inspired bysomeone who who told me that
that this is what I should do, Ishould go and be a teacher,
because she saw the potentialthat I have to to become an
educator, and I know this.
Those of you who are listeningto this, who are at home wanting
to do the same thing changeyour careers and then, but then
(03:01):
there's certain things thatyou're worried about.
I know one of the biggestthings that I hear from people
are you know how I'm gonnachange my career if I'm X years
old, right, especially, you know, people are over 40, over 50,
who are worried am I gonna gethired by somebody?
(03:23):
If I'm, you know, if I'm thatold and I gotta be honest with
you age there is an age orageism discrimination.
I've that's has happened to mewhere I applied for a tech
position in a well-known NewYork City hospital and went
(03:48):
through the first interview,went through the second
interview.
It was great.
The guy who's gonna be, who'sthe manager?
He said man, everything looksgreat.
You know, all you have to do istalk to the, to the boss, and
you know she should.
You know you should getapproval.
He said it's gonna be a pieceof cake.
(04:09):
I went in there and the ladytold me that she was gonna do me
a favor.
And I she looked at my resume.
She goes I'm gonna do yourfavor.
And then I stood there and Iwas like okay, what's the favor?
She goes I'm not gonna hire you.
And I'm thinking to myself, howis that a favor?
And then she explained she saidyou know you're better than
(04:33):
this.
She said I'm looking at yourresume and this job that you
reply for is not for you.
You need to be in a higherlevel position.
She says, you know, there'sjust, it's just a different
skill set that I'm looking forat this, at this job, and you're
(04:54):
past it.
So in a way I felt, you know,kind of proud because you know
it kind of gave me the, you knowthe, the, the knowledge that
the jobs that I'm playing for,the jobs that I'm interviewing
for, you know our maybe not jobsfor me, as far as the level
(05:17):
that I'm at, right, becausesometimes you don't have
confidence.
You know, I didn't have thatmuch confidence at that time
that I could do I.
You know that I can do morethan what I thought I could.
Right, I always thought, ohyeah, this is what I could do.
I can't do more than this.
Turns out that I could andthat's what.
(05:40):
So her telling me that Kind ofinspired me.
It says you know what?
I'm not gonna apply for thesetype of jobs anymore.
I'm actually gonna apply forjobs that are higher, jobs that
have more responsibility, jobsthat pay more.
Those were the jobs that Iwould.
I decided that I was gonnaapply.
Fortunately I I met someoneteacher of mine who told me that
(06:05):
you know, my, the best way togo is to go through academia.
And I started just teaching.
You know, come to your classesa security plus, a plus right.
And then I went to.
I Was a long-term New York Citypublic schools substitute
(06:27):
teacher.
I taught the third grade andThen I graduated and then this
was the last six months of meattending Getting my master's in
cyber.
So I taught a plus.
I thought I was long-term subNew York City, I was teaching
(06:48):
third graders and Then I wentand became.
I got a job at Lincoln Tech,part-time during the day, again
teaching a plus, and I kind ofRealized I kind of had a knack
for it when I got 13 out of the17 students but I had to pass
(07:09):
the a plus.
It was so, it was.
So.
You know, there were otherteachers were so upset that I
got 13 out of 17 that they wrotean email to the, to the head of
the school, accusing me of ofTeaching the students how to
(07:32):
cheat.
They were like there's no wayhe got 13 out of 17 and I did.
It's just by studying and beingaggressive and and believing in
them, you know, and motivatingthem.
Right, you know, it's it.
It does a lot when, when youhave somebody who believes in
you, as opposed to somebodywho's just sitting there and
(07:53):
Saying, okay, did you do this?
Oh, you didn't do it, okay next, you know it's a big difference
, right, it's just I find thatif the students like you,
they'll do almost anything toyou know, to keep you happy, you
know to to you know, have thatthat relationship with you.
So I worked there and I alsoGot a job at this other school
(08:22):
Teaching security plus on theweekends, and then I went and
had junked at the school that Igraduated from, they let me
teach a couple of classes.
So I was running around all dayand then I did that for like a
year and then, you know, Idecided I needed to get a like a
full-time job with benefits andstuff, now that I wasn't making
(08:45):
good money.
I was, you know, running aroundand all day Was still making
good money, but I just wanted ajob with benefits and stuff.
So you know, that's importantto have became a high school
teacher and and Newark lovedthat place.
Shout out to my students inNewark.
Then I applied for my currentjob as an adjunct and when I got
(09:11):
there they said hey, we have afull-time position open, you
should apply.
I applied and it was a longprocess.
I got it.
You know, I just made, I justgot tenure.
So it's.
You know it's been a very, veryhumbling experience Doing what
I do, but you know I want to letyou guys know that you guys can
(09:34):
do it too, right, you know.
So I wanted to shed a light ona pitiful step in your
professional journey.
Right and this is all thosepeople who want to take the comp
T exams Right in the everevolving landscape of technology
where proficient andversatility are paramount.
(09:54):
The comp T certificationsStands up as a beacon of
recognition and opportunity.
First and foremost, the comp Tcertification, specifically the
a plus exam, serves as a Fundfoundational pillar in the realm
of IT.
It covers a broad spectrum ofessential skills and knowledge,
(10:15):
providing a comprehensiveunderstanding of hardware,
software, networking, securityand more.
This ensures that you don'tjust specialize in one area, but
rather you become awell-rounded IT professional
capable of handling diversechanges.
The certification is notconfined to theoretical
knowledge.
It is practical, hands-on andimmediately applicable.
(10:36):
It equips you with the skillsneeded to troubleshoot, problem
solve and address real-worldissues.
This hands-on experience isinvaluable.
At is not only buildsconfidence in your ability In
your ability but also makes youan asset in any IT environment
and a fast-paced world oftechnology.
Staying current is notnegotiable.
(10:58):
The comp T a plus certificationis not a static achievement.
It evolves within the industry.
By pursuing and maintainingthis certification, you
demonstrated your commitment tostay in the brass of the latest
trends and technologies.
This commitment is a testamentto your dedication to continue
(11:18):
learning, a Quality highlyvalued in the dynamic field of
IT.
However, the CompTIAcertification is globally
recognized.
It is not bound by geographicalconstraints Shout out to my
people in London.
Rather, it opens doors toopportunity on a global scale.
(11:40):
Whenever you're seekingemployment, aiming for career
investment or concentrating ashift in a different sector,
within IT, this certificationacts as a universal language
that speaks to your competenceand expertise.
The A-plus certification is thekey differentiator in a
competitive job market.
(12:00):
Employers actively seekprofessionals who hold the
certification, as is the shortof them, of your foundational
knowledge and practical skills.
It serves as a stamp ofapproval, signalling to
employers that you have what ittakes to excel in various IT
roles.
Furthermore, the certificationis stepping stone to advanced
(12:24):
certifications.
It lays the groundwork for yourfuture growth in specialized
areas of IT.
Whether you're interested innetwork cybersecurity or systems
administrator, the A-pluscertification provides a solid
base upon what you can build andspecialize, opening doors to
higher level certifications andcareer advancements.
(12:46):
If you're having secondthoughts about taking the
CompTIA course or the CompTIAexam, the A-plus hopefully I
gave you motivation for that,even if you're doing a career
(13:06):
change.
Embarking on a career change isa courageous and transformative
decision.
It's a journey that requiresself-reflection, planning and
resistance.
Whatever you're seeking achange for personal fulfillment,
increased job satisfaction orfinancial growth here are some
(13:28):
steps to guide you through theprocess of changing careers.
Self-reflection is number one.
Identify your motivations.
Understand why you want tochange careers.
Is it a desire for newchallenges, a passion you want
to pursue or a need for a betterwork-life balance?
Assess your skills andinterests.
Take stock of your currentskills, strengths and interests.
(13:52):
Consider what you enjoy doingin your free time and where your
natural talents lie Researchand exploitation.
Explore new industries,research industries and roles
that align with your skills andinterests.
Attend industry events,webinars and networking sessions
to gain insight.
Informational interviews Reachout to professionals in the
(14:16):
field that you are interested in.
Conduct informationalinterviews to understand the
day-to-day realities of the joband the industry culture.
Skill assessments and gapanalysis Identify your
transferable skills.
Identify which skills from yourcurrent career are transferable
to your desired field.
(14:37):
Skill development Identify anygaps in your skill and explore
opportunities for training,certification or additional
education to bridge those gaps.
People think just because theywork in one field that they
don't transfer to IT, butthere's a lot of soft skills
that you have acquired theability to go to work on time,
(15:00):
not being late, write aprofessional email, being able
to communicate with peoplethat's a big part of IT, so
that's a transferable skill thatyou have.
You could be working inhospitality, but if you have
those skills, they translateover to IT.
(15:20):
Networking Build a professionalnetwork.
Connect with professionals inyour target industry through
networking events, social mediaand professional organizations.
Mentorship Seek out mentors whoprovide guidance and advice
based on their own career changeexperiences.
Next, update your resume andonline presence.
(15:44):
This is a big one, guys, that Ikind of talk to my students
about constantly Tailor yourresume.
Highlight relevant skills andexperience from your current and
past roles that are applicableto your new career LinkedIn
profile.
Update your LinkedIn profile toreflect your career change
goals.
Connect with professionals inyour target industry.
(16:06):
That's a big one, guys.
If you don't have a LinkedInprofile, why not Get one and
update it?
Update it with youraccomplishments, even the little
ones.
Believe me, people will noticeI've gotten jobs through
LinkedIn.
People looking at my LinkedInaccount, see what I can do and
(16:28):
then contacting me ThroughLinkedIn.
Actually and this is somethingthat's gonna come out next year
Did an interview with a companykind of like a Inspirational
video that's gonna come out nextyear with a company because
they saw my LinkedIn profile.
So you know you can this.
(16:50):
You can do it.
Build a nice, decent LinkedInprofile.
Take a look at mine, see whatmine looks like and you know you
can do that.
You know and follow me.
Follow me Again.
Practical experience internshipor volunteering consider
internship or volunteeropportunities In your desired
(17:11):
field to gain experience andmake valuable connections.
Freelancing explore freelancingopportunities to build a
portfolio and demonstrate yourskill.
Job search and applicationstargeted applications tailor
your job applications tohighlight how your existing
skills are revelant to the newrole.
Utilize job boards andnetworking platforms.
(17:34):
Use online boards andprofessional network platforms
To explore job opportunities.
Linkedin is always there'salways people saying, oh, I'm
hiring, I'm hiring or my job ishiring.
Prepare for interviews behaviorInterviews be prepared to
discuss how your past experiencemake you a good fit for the new
role and show enthusiasm.
(17:54):
Demonstrate your passion forthe new industry and your
commitment to your career change.
Be patient.
Understand the learning curve.
Recognize that they may be alearning curve in your
transition to your new career.
Job hunting and careertransition can be challenging.
(18:15):
Stay tough and learn fromsetbacks.
Seek professional guidanceCareer counselors consider
seeking guidance from careercounselors who provide
personalized advice and support.
Remember changing careers is aprocess, not an overnight
(18:36):
transformation.
Stay focused on your goals andbe adaptable and embrace the
opportunity that come with yournewfound path.
Best of luck on your journey.
Right, this more stuff that Ican read on why?
(18:57):
Right, why you want to changeyour careers?
Right there's.
People have the differentreasons Personal fulfillment
pursuing a career line which arepassion and interest, can lead
to a greater sense offulfillment and satisfaction,
and your work you might, eventhough you might not make money
right.
(19:18):
Professional growth changingcareers often involves in
acquiring new skills andknowledge Leading, leading to
continuous professionaldevelopment and growth.
Increased job satisfaction Acareer change allows you to
escape from a job that may havebecome Tannis or unfulfilling,
leading to increase jobsatisfaction and motivation.
Broader skill set transitioningto a new career often requires
(19:43):
learning new skills.
This broadens your skill setand makes you a more versatile
and adaptable.
Professional Expanded networkchanging career exposes you to
new professional networkNetworking in a different
industry can open doors toopportunities and valuable
connections, and that is true.
I have met so many nice peoplewho are teachers and cyber there
(20:09):
and they could not be any nicerto me.
Then I mean it's amazing how,how you can meet and expand your
network and get an opportunityto work with these people.
So and it's not only inacademia, it's everywhere
improved work life balance, acareer change might offer the
(20:29):
chance to find a role orIndustry that better lines with
your desired work life balance,contributing to your overall
well-being.
Financial opportunities, ofcourse.
Money is a big as a big bigmotivator.
No one's gonna hide that ordeny that.
You know, if you can make moremoney, do it.
Some career changes come withthe potential for increased
(20:52):
earning potential.
Transitioning to a field with ahigher demand for your skills
can lead to better financialprospects, renewed passion and
energy.
Yeah, this is.
This is a Good one, becausewhen I first started this new
career in academia and I'm still, I'm still out of you know, I
still get that high right of.
(21:13):
You know, when a new classopens or when a student tells me
that you know he's, he got acertification, or you know, or
he got a job, you know it'sstill fresh in my, in my, in my
head, in my heart.
Starting a new career canreignite your passions for work.
The excitement of a newchallenge often brings renewed
(21:36):
energy and enthusiasm.
Adaptability successfullynavigating a career change
demonstrates your adaptability.
Quality is highly valued intoday's dynamic job market
Alignment with values.
Changing careers allows you toseek roles and Organizations
that align with your personalbeliefs and principle, creating
(21:57):
a more meaningful professionalexperience, entrepreneurial
opportunities.
A career change may open doorsto opportunity, opportunity,
ventures, allowing you toexplore and establish your own
business or become a consultant.
That hasn't happened to me yet,but I've been offered Stuff but
(22:20):
I've turned it down and hencejob security.
Acquiring skills in a highdemand industry Can't contribute
to an enhanced job security andincreased markability.
I got tenure right.
That's job security right.
Shout out to people my job.
Diverse experiencingExperiences.
(22:41):
Transitioning to a new careerexposes you to diverse
experiences, helping you build aricher and more varied
professional background.
Again, it happened to me.
You know being being that I wasan actual technician who was
translating to academia.
I think really, really helpedme, because the people who not a
(23:07):
lot of people do both right,like there's not people who are,
who work as a tech and Thendecide to teach.
They either like one or theother like, so I I bring a
different perspective Into theclassroom.
That some of my fellow teachersis not a bad thing, it's just
(23:29):
different, right, it's justdifferent that they've never
experienced, especially workingwith people and how to behave
and you know the do's and don'tsof a job, plus all the stories
that I have of people that didstupid things and they got fired
and I can.
I can Build that into mylessons and the students love my
(23:52):
stories.
They they often come back andand they say that maybe, like on
an exam, they remember one ofmy stories and that's how they
figured out what the answer wasBecause I got a.
I got a lot of stories aboutpeople in in IT I've worked
there a long time so I have alot of stories Increased
confidence.
Successfully navigating a careerchange builds confidence in
(24:15):
your ability to adapt, learn andthrive in different
professional environments andprofessional growth and learning
.
A Career change often involvesstepping outside your comfort
zone, fostering personal growthand providing continuous
learning opportunities.
In Essence, changing yourcareer is a transformative
(24:37):
journey, not only enhance yourprofessional life, but also
contributes significantly Toyour overall well-being and
sense of purpose.
You know, as you get older IDon't know about anybody else
but for me, you know what's myimpact in the world right and my
(25:00):
and what I've decided that myimpact in the world is Mentoring
these students who andhopefully they become successful
People right and they canalways come back and and email
me, text me, message me onLinkedIn and say, hey, professor
(25:20):
, thank you so much.
You helped me, you know, in myjourney and that's something
that's Priceless, guys,absolutely priceless.
So hopefully these words wouldinspire you in 2024 to make that
change Right, to decide that,yes, this, this year, is the
(25:44):
year that I'm gonna do it.
This year is the year that I'mgonna change my job.
I'm gonna take things serious.
You know I'm gonna focus onthis and you know this, this is
what I'm gonna do and and that'swhat it takes right, you, you
have to Be able to do that.
When I tell people that I tookthe CompTIA exam, both exams, on
(26:08):
a Saturday, you know the Idon't know, I think it was a 901
or 801 Took the night one, the901, I think, in the morning and
then the 902 in the afternoon.
After four days of taking abootcamp, a plus class, people
are like there's no way and I'mlike, yeah, there is, if you
dedicate yourself.
(26:28):
Right, I decided I was gonnadedicate that week To study, you
know, to take the four classesMonday through Thursday, go home
at night and study for fivehours, study it all day.
Friday, saturday went to bothexams past Next week.
I did the same thing withnetwork plus For these of
classes, boot camp, went home,35 hours, studied all day.
(26:52):
Friday went, saturday, took theexam.
I Mean it's exhausting.
I was supposed to do CCNA thefollowing week but I didn't do
it because when I only likedthat class and to, I was just
mentally shot Right, you can't,you know you can't Be on that
high level.
But hopefully you decide 2024,is it?
(27:14):
2024 is the year that I'm gonnamake this change.
Right, guys, you're gonna makethis change and if you need me
to help you, just let me know.
Keep listening to the podcast.
You know, email me, professor JRod, j R O D I gmailcom and you
know I'll try to help youanyway.
And Passing the certificationsthat you need now.
(27:37):
Now I need a favor from youguys.
If anybody out there is Aneducator like I am and create
podcasts for their classroom,high school, college level,
please email me, professor J rod, at gmailcom and so that you
(27:57):
could help me with mydissertation, please.
My dissertation for mydoctorate degree is using
podcast as a learning tool inhigher education.
So if anybody out there is Aneducational podcaster, that's
(28:19):
what I call it an educationalpodcaster.
Please email me, professor Jrod J R O D, I gmailcom and I
will send you the survey to fillout for my dissertation.
So if you can help me with that, I would appreciate you all.
And, with that said, I want towish everyone a safe and happy
(28:42):
new year.
Be safe, let's let's bring in2024 With a bang right.
Spend time with our families.
Come on to 2024, where our newgoes in mind.
Happy new year, happy new year.
Well, that's gonna put a wrapon today's show.
(29:10):
Thank you so much, guys.
Happy new year.
We'll see you next year.
This has been a production oflittle cha cha.
(29:31):
Productions are by Sarah music,by Jo Kim.
If you like to reach me, youcan reach me at professor J rod
J R O D at gmailcom, or I'm alsoon Instagram, professor J rod,
and I'm also now on tiktok atprofessor J rod.
And welcome to technology tap.
I'm Professor Jay Rott in thisepisode.
It's the end of the year, guys.
Let's talk about what we'regonna do for the next year.
Let's get into it, alright?
(01:09):
Hello everyone.
While that transition wentsmooth, so it's the end of the
year, actually for the.
For those of you who arehearing me for the first time,
this is technology tap and I'mProfessor Jay Rod JROD.
You can reach me at my email,professor Jay rod, at gmailcom.
(01:30):
I'm on Instagram, professor JayRod, and I'm on LinkedIn, not
LinkedIn TikTok, professor JayRod, also on there.
I just wanted to.
You know this is the end of theyear, so I figured you know
there's a lot of people.
A happy holidays everyone, bythe way.
(01:50):
But as the end of the yearapproaches, you know I know
there are people out there whoare thinking about making a
career change.
Right, they want to start 2024with a whole new state of mind.
They want to be able to go into2024, you know, with certain
goals and probably what some ofthe certain goals is changing
(02:13):
your career, and I know this istough and you know it might be a
little bit of a sticky topicfor some people, but I know what
it's like to want to changeyour careers.
You know, and I did it late.
You know, like as everyone youknow, you do it late.
You, I was in my 40s when Idecided to change to academia
(02:40):
and I was actually inspired bysomeone who who told me that
that this is what I should do, Ishould go and be a teacher,
because she saw the potentialthat I have to to become an
educator, and I know this.
Those of you who are listeningto this, who are at home wanting
to do the same thing changeyour careers and then, but then
(03:01):
there's certain things thatyou're worried about.
I know one of the biggestthings that I hear from people
are you know how I'm gonnachange my career if I'm X years
old, right, especially, you know, people are over 40, over 50,
who are worried am I gonna gethired by somebody?
(03:23):
If I'm, you know, if I'm thatold and I gotta be honest with
you age there is an age orageism discrimination.
I've that's has happened to mewhere I applied for a tech
position in a well-known NewYork City hospital and went
(03:48):
through the first interview,went through the second
interview.
It was great.
The guy who's gonna be, who'sthe manager?
He said man, everything looksgreat.
You know, all you have to do istalk to the, to the boss, and
you know she should.
You know you should getapproval.
He said it's gonna be a pieceof cake.
(04:09):
I went in there and the ladytold me that she was gonna do me
a favor.
And I she looked at my resume.
She goes I'm gonna do yourfavor.
And then I stood there and Iwas like okay, what's the favor?
She goes I'm not gonna hire you.
And I'm thinking to myself, howis that a favor?
And then she explained she saidyou know you're better than
(04:33):
this.
She said I'm looking at yourresume and this job that you
reply for is not for you.
You need to be in a higherlevel position.
She says, you know, there'sjust, it's just a different
skill set that I'm looking forat this, at this job, and you're
(04:54):
past it.
So in a way I felt, you know,kind of proud because you know
it kind of gave me the, you knowthe, the, the knowledge that
the jobs that I'm playing for,the jobs that I'm interviewing
for, you know our maybe not jobsfor me, as far as the level
(05:17):
that I'm at, right, becausesometimes you don't have
confidence.
You know, I didn't have thatmuch confidence at that time
that I could do I.
You know that I can do morethan what I thought I could.
Right, I always thought, ohyeah, this is what I could do.
I can't do more than this.
Turns out that I could andthat's what.
(05:40):
So her telling me that Kind ofinspired me.
It says you know what?
I'm not gonna apply for thesetype of jobs anymore.
I'm actually gonna apply forjobs that are higher, jobs that
have more responsibility, jobsthat pay more.
Those were the jobs that Iwould.
I decided that I was gonnaapply.
Fortunately I I met someoneteacher of mine who told me that
(06:05):
you know, my, the best way togo is to go through academia.
And I started just teaching.
You know, come to your classesa security plus, a plus right.
And then I went to.
I Was a long-term New York Citypublic schools substitute
(06:27):
teacher.
I taught the third grade andThen I graduated and then this
was the last six months of meattending Getting my master's in
cyber.
So I taught a plus.
I thought I was long-term subNew York City, I was teaching
(06:48):
third graders and Then I wentand became.
I got a job at Lincoln Tech,part-time during the day, again
teaching a plus, and I kind ofRealized I kind of had a knack
for it when I got 13 out of the17 students but I had to pass
(07:09):
the a plus.
It was so, it was.
So.
You know, there were otherteachers were so upset that I
got 13 out of 17 that they wrotean email to the, to the head of
the school, accusing me of ofTeaching the students how to
(07:32):
cheat.
They were like there's no wayhe got 13 out of 17 and I did.
It's just by studying and beingaggressive and and believing in
them, you know, and motivatingthem.
Right, you know, it's it.
It does a lot when, when youhave somebody who believes in
you, as opposed to somebodywho's just sitting there and
(07:53):
Saying, okay, did you do this?
Oh, you didn't do it, okay next, you know it's a big difference
, right, it's just I find thatif the students like you,
they'll do almost anything toyou know, to keep you happy, you
know to to you know, have thatthat relationship with you.
So I worked there and I alsoGot a job at this other school
(08:22):
Teaching security plus on theweekends, and then I went and
had junked at the school that Igraduated from, they let me
teach a couple of classes.
So I was running around all dayand then I did that for like a
year and then, you know, Idecided I needed to get a like a
full-time job with benefits andstuff, now that I wasn't making
(08:45):
good money.
I was, you know, running aroundand all day Was still making
good money, but I just wanted ajob with benefits and stuff.
So you know, that's importantto have became a high school
teacher and and Newark lovedthat place.
Shout out to my students inNewark.
Then I applied for my currentjob as an adjunct and when I got
(09:11):
there they said hey, we have afull-time position open, you
should apply.
I applied and it was a longprocess.
I got it.
You know, I just made, I justgot tenure.
So it's.
You know it's been a very, veryhumbling experience Doing what
I do, but you know I want to letyou guys know that you guys can
(09:34):
do it too, right, you know.
So I wanted to shed a light ona pitiful step in your
professional journey.
Right and this is all thosepeople who want to take the comp
T exams Right in the everevolving landscape of technology
where proficient andversatility are paramount.
(09:54):
The comp T certificationsStands up as a beacon of
recognition and opportunity.
First and foremost, the comp Tcertification, specifically the
a plus exam, serves as a Fundfoundational pillar in the realm
of IT.
It covers a broad spectrum ofessential skills and knowledge,
(10:15):
providing a comprehensiveunderstanding of hardware,
software, networking, securityand more.
This ensures that you don'tjust specialize in one area, but
rather you become awell-rounded IT professional
capable of handling diversechanges.
The certification is notconfined to theoretical
knowledge.
It is practical, hands-on andimmediately applicable.
(10:36):
It equips you with the skillsneeded to troubleshoot, problem
solve and address real-worldissues.
This hands-on experience isinvaluable.
At is not only buildsconfidence in your ability In
your ability but also makes youan asset in any IT environment
and a fast-paced world oftechnology.
Staying current is notnegotiable.
(10:58):
The comp T a plus certificationis not a static achievement.
It evolves within the industry.
By pursuing and maintainingthis certification, you
demonstrated your commitment tostay in the brass of the latest
trends and technologies.
This commitment is a testamentto your dedication to continue
(11:18):
learning, a Quality highlyvalued in the dynamic field of
IT.
However, the CompTIAcertification is globally
recognized.
It is not bound by geographicalconstraints Shout out to my
people in London.
Rather, it opens doors toopportunity on a global scale.
(11:40):
Whenever you're seekingemployment, aiming for career
investment or concentrating ashift in a different sector,
within IT, this certificationacts as a universal language
that speaks to your competenceand expertise.
The A-plus certification is thekey differentiator in a
competitive job market.
(12:00):
Employers actively seekprofessionals who hold the
certification, as is the shortof them, of your foundational
knowledge and practical skills.
It serves as a stamp ofapproval, signalling to
employers that you have what ittakes to excel in various IT
roles.
Furthermore, the certificationis stepping stone to advanced
(12:24):
certifications.
It lays the groundwork for yourfuture growth in specialized
areas of IT.
Whether you're interested innetwork cybersecurity or systems
administrator, the A-pluscertification provides a solid
base upon what you can build andspecialize, opening doors to
higher level certifications andcareer advancements.
(12:46):
If you're having secondthoughts about taking the
CompTIA course or the CompTIAexam, the A-plus hopefully I
gave you motivation for that,even if you're doing a career
(13:06):
change.
Embarking on a career change isa courageous and transformative
decision.
It's a journey that requiresself-reflection, planning and
resistance.
Whatever you're seeking achange for personal fulfillment,
increased job satisfaction orfinancial growth here are some
(13:28):
steps to guide you through theprocess of changing careers.
Self-reflection is number one.
Identify your motivations.
Understand why you want tochange careers.
Is it a desire for newchallenges, a passion you want
to pursue or a need for a betterwork-life balance?
Assess your skills andinterests.
Take stock of your currentskills, strengths and interests.
(13:52):
Consider what you enjoy doingin your free time and where your
natural talents lie Researchand exploitation.
Explore new industries,research industries and roles
that align with your skills andinterests.
Attend industry events,webinars and networking sessions
to gain insight.
Informational interviews Reachout to professionals in the
(14:16):
field that you are interested in.
Conduct informationalinterviews to understand the
day-to-day realities of the joband the industry culture.
Skill assessments and gapanalysis Identify your
transferable skills.
Identify which skills from yourcurrent career are transferable
to your desired field.
(14:37):
Skill development Identify anygaps in your skill and explore
opportunities for training,certification or additional
education to bridge those gaps.
People think just because theywork in one field that they
don't transfer to IT, butthere's a lot of soft skills
that you have acquired theability to go to work on time,
(15:00):
not being late, write aprofessional email, being able
to communicate with peoplethat's a big part of IT, so
that's a transferable skill thatyou have.
You could be working inhospitality, but if you have
those skills, they translateover to IT.
(15:20):
Networking Build a professionalnetwork.
Connect with professionals inyour target industry through
networking events, social mediaand professional organizations.
Mentorship Seek out mentors whoprovide guidance and advice
based on their own career changeexperiences.
Next, update your resume andonline presence.
(15:44):
This is a big one, guys, that Ikind of talk to my students
about constantly Tailor yourresume.
Highlight relevant skills andexperience from your current and
past roles that are applicableto your new career LinkedIn
profile.
Update your LinkedIn profile toreflect your career change
goals.
Connect with professionals inyour target industry.
(16:06):
That's a big one, guys.
If you don't have a LinkedInprofile, why not Get one and
update it?
Update it with youraccomplishments, even the little
ones.
Believe me, people will noticeI've gotten jobs through
LinkedIn.
People looking at my LinkedInaccount, see what I can do and
(16:28):
then contacting me ThroughLinkedIn.
Actually and this is somethingthat's gonna come out next year
Did an interview with a companykind of like a Inspirational
video that's gonna come out nextyear with a company because
they saw my LinkedIn profile.
So you know you can this.
(16:50):
You can do it.
Build a nice, decent LinkedInprofile.
Take a look at mine, see whatmine looks like and you know you
can do that.
You know and follow me.
Follow me Again.
Practical experience internshipor volunteering consider
internship or volunteeropportunities In your desired
(17:11):
field to gain experience andmake valuable connections.
Freelancing explore freelancingopportunities to build a
portfolio and demonstrate yourskill.
Job search and applicationstargeted applications tailor
your job applications tohighlight how your existing
skills are revelant to the newrole.
Utilize job boards andnetworking platforms.
(17:34):
Use online boards andprofessional network platforms
To explore job opportunities.
Linkedin is always there'salways people saying, oh, I'm
hiring, I'm hiring or my job ishiring.
Prepare for interviews behaviorInterviews be prepared to
discuss how your past experiencemake you a good fit for the new
role and show enthusiasm.
(17:54):
Demonstrate your passion forthe new industry and your
commitment to your career change.
Be patient.
Understand the learning curve.
Recognize that they may be alearning curve in your
transition to your new career.
Job hunting and careertransition can be challenging.
(18:15):
Stay tough and learn fromsetbacks.
Seek professional guidanceCareer counselors consider
seeking guidance from careercounselors who provide
personalized advice and support.
Remember changing careers is aprocess, not an overnight
(18:36):
transformation.
Stay focused on your goals andbe adaptable and embrace the
opportunity that come with yournewfound path.
Best of luck on your journey.
Right, this more stuff that Ican read on why?
(18:57):
Right, why you want to changeyour careers?
Right there's.
People have the differentreasons Personal fulfillment
pursuing a career line which arepassion and interest, can lead
to a greater sense offulfillment and satisfaction,
and your work you might, eventhough you might not make money
right.
(19:18):
Professional growth changingcareers often involves in
acquiring new skills andknowledge Leading, leading to
continuous professionaldevelopment and growth.
Increased job satisfaction Acareer change allows you to
escape from a job that may havebecome Tannis or unfulfilling,
leading to increase jobsatisfaction and motivation.
Broader skill set transitioningto a new career often requires
(19:43):
learning new skills.
This broadens your skill setand makes you a more versatile
and adaptable.
Professional Expanded networkchanging career exposes you to
new professional networkNetworking in a different
industry can open doors toopportunities and valuable
connections, and that is true.
I have met so many nice peoplewho are teachers and cyber there
(20:09):
and they could not be any nicerto me.
Then I mean it's amazing how,how you can meet and expand your
network and get an opportunityto work with these people.
So and it's not only inacademia, it's everywhere
improved work life balance, acareer change might offer the
(20:29):
chance to find a role orIndustry that better lines with
your desired work life balance,contributing to your overall
well-being.
Financial opportunities, ofcourse.
Money is a big as a big bigmotivator.
No one's gonna hide that ordeny that.
You know, if you can make moremoney, do it.
Some career changes come withthe potential for increased
(20:52):
earning potential.
Transitioning to a field with ahigher demand for your skills
can lead to better financialprospects, renewed passion and
energy.
Yeah, this is.
This is a Good one, becausewhen I first started this new
career in academia and I'm still, I'm still out of you know, I
still get that high right of.
(21:13):
You know, when a new classopens or when a student tells me
that you know he's, he got acertification, or you know, or
he got a job, you know it'sstill fresh in my, in my, in my
head, in my heart.
Starting a new career canreignite your passions for work.
The excitement of a newchallenge often brings renewed
(21:36):
energy and enthusiasm.
Adaptability successfullynavigating a career change
demonstrates your adaptability.
Quality is highly valued intoday's dynamic job market
Alignment with values.
Changing careers allows you toseek roles and Organizations
that align with your personalbeliefs and principle, creating
(21:57):
a more meaningful professionalexperience, entrepreneurial
opportunities.
A career change may open doorsto opportunity, opportunity,
ventures, allowing you toexplore and establish your own
business or become a consultant.
That hasn't happened to me yet,but I've been offered Stuff but
(22:20):
I've turned it down and hencejob security.
Acquiring skills in a highdemand industry Can't contribute
to an enhanced job security andincreased markability.
I got tenure right.
That's job security right.
Shout out to people my job.
Diverse experiencingExperiences.
(22:41):
Transitioning to a new careerexposes you to diverse
experiences, helping you build aricher and more varied
professional background.
Again, it happened to me.
You know being being that I wasan actual technician who was
translating to academia.
I think really, really helpedme, because the people who not a
(23:07):
lot of people do both right,like there's not people who are,
who work as a tech and Thendecide to teach.
They either like one or theother like, so I I bring a
different perspective Into theclassroom.
That some of my fellow teachersis not a bad thing, it's just
(23:29):
different, right, it's justdifferent that they've never
experienced, especially workingwith people and how to behave
and you know the do's and don'tsof a job, plus all the stories
that I have of people that didstupid things and they got fired
and I can.
I can Build that into mylessons and the students love my
(23:52):
stories.
They they often come back andand they say that maybe, like on
an exam, they remember one ofmy stories and that's how they
figured out what the answer wasBecause I got a.
I got a lot of stories aboutpeople in in IT I've worked
there a long time so I have alot of stories Increased
confidence.
Successfully navigating a careerchange builds confidence in
(24:15):
your ability to adapt, learn andthrive in different
professional environments andprofessional growth and learning
.
A Career change often involvesstepping outside your comfort
zone, fostering personal growthand providing continuous
learning opportunities.
In Essence, changing yourcareer is a transformative
(24:37):
journey, not only enhance yourprofessional life, but also
contributes significantly Toyour overall well-being and
sense of purpose.
You know, as you get older IDon't know about anybody else
but for me, you know what's myimpact in the world right and my
(25:00):
and what I've decided that myimpact in the world is Mentoring
these students who andhopefully they become successful
People right and they canalways come back and and email
me, text me, message me onLinkedIn and say, hey, professor
(25:20):
, thank you so much.
You helped me, you know, in myjourney and that's something
that's Priceless, guys,absolutely priceless.
So hopefully these words wouldinspire you in 2024 to make that
change Right, to decide that,yes, this, this year, is the
(25:44):
year that I'm gonna do it.
This year is the year that I'mgonna change my job.
I'm gonna take things serious.
You know I'm gonna focus onthis and you know this, this is
what I'm gonna do and and that'swhat it takes right, you, you
have to Be able to do that.
When I tell people that I tookthe CompTIA exam, both exams, on
(26:08):
a Saturday, you know the Idon't know, I think it was a 901
or 801 Took the night one, the901, I think, in the morning and
then the 902 in the afternoon.
After four days of taking abootcamp, a plus class, people
are like there's no way and I'mlike, yeah, there is, if you
dedicate yourself.
(26:28):
Right, I decided I was gonnadedicate that week To study, you
know, to take the four classesMonday through Thursday, go home
at night and study for fivehours, study it all day.
Friday, saturday went to bothexams past Next week.
I did the same thing withnetwork plus For these of
classes, boot camp, went home,35 hours, studied all day.
(26:52):
Friday went, saturday, took theexam.
I Mean it's exhausting.
I was supposed to do CCNA thefollowing week but I didn't do
it because when I only likedthat class and to, I was just
mentally shot Right, you can't,you know you can't Be on that
high level.
But hopefully you decide 2024,is it?
(27:14):
2024 is the year that I'm gonnamake this change.
Right, guys, you're gonna makethis change and if you need me
to help you, just let me know.
Keep listening to the podcast.
You know, email me, professor JRod, j R O D I gmailcom and you
know I'll try to help youanyway.
And Passing the certificationsthat you need now.
(27:37):
Now I need a favor from youguys.
If anybody out there is Aneducator like I am and create
podcasts for their classroom,high school, college level,
please email me, professor J rod, at gmailcom and so that you
(27:57):
could help me with mydissertation, please.
My dissertation for mydoctorate degree is using
podcast as a learning tool inhigher education.
So if anybody out there is Aneducational podcaster, that's
(28:19):
what I call it an educationalpodcaster.
Please email me, professor Jrod J R O D, I gmailcom and I
will send you the survey to fillout for my dissertation.
So if you can help me with that, I would appreciate you all.
And, with that said, I want towish everyone a safe and happy
(28:42):
new year.
Be safe, let's let's bring in2024 With a bang right.
Spend time with our families.
Come on to 2024, where our newgoes in mind.
Happy new year, happy new year.
Well, that's gonna put a wrapon today's show.
(29:10):
Thank you so much, guys.
Happy new year.
We'll see you next year.
This has been a production oflittle cha cha.
(29:31):
Productions are by Sarah music,by Jo Kim.
If you like to reach me, youcan reach me at professor J rod
J R O D at gmailcom, or I'm alsoon Instagram, professor J rod,
and I'm also now on tiktok atprofessor J rod.
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