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Ever wondered how cloud development intersects with network engineering at a tech powerhouse like Cisco? Join us as we chat with Erica Dietrick, a developer advocate at Cisco, who shares her unique perspective on the challenges and rewards of her role. From gearing up for major events such as Cisco Live to engaging with the tech community online, Erica offers an insider's view into the cyclical nature of her work. She also takes us through her personal journey into cloud development, highlighting the continuous learning required in such a fast-paced industry.

As we step further into the world of tech careers, we explore the complex interplay between cloud and DevOps. Whether you're in it for the salary or driven by a genuine passion for technology, the path is fraught with the challenge of understanding a rapidly expanding tech stack. We discuss the increasing accessibility of high-demand roles like cloud engineering and the contrasting motivations of those entering the field. Erica's insights shed light on the overwhelming breadth of knowledge needed today, especially when navigating the unique dynamics of startups, where junior developers can significantly shape the architecture from the ground up.

The conversation takes an innovative turn as we discuss the transformative role of AI in coding education and assessment. With AI tools like GitHub Copilot changing the landscape, we delve into the emerging skill of prompt engineering and the shift towards evaluating problem-solving abilities over traditional coding exercises. Erica shares her thoughts on how AI can enhance learning and streamline complex tasks without undermining foundational problem-solving skills. We reflect on the importance of embracing these tools to boost productivity and deepen our understanding of the technical landscape, making a compelling case for AI as an assistant rather than a replacement.

How to connect with Erika:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/erikadietrick/
https://x.com/Erika_theDev
https://www.youtube.com/@erika_thedev

Purchase Chris and Tim's new book on AWS Cloud Networking: https://www.amazon.com/Certified-Advanced-Networking-Certification-certification/dp/1835080839/

Check out the Fortnightly Cloud Networking News
https://docs.google.com/document/d/1fkBWCGwXDUX9OfZ9_MvSVup8tJJzJeqrauaE6VPT2b0/

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S4 Ep. 2 - “Ben’s Birthday Party”