The Everything Feed - All Packet Pushers Pods LIU004: From Fast Food to Leading Operations at an ISP
Nov 13, 2025
Matthew Oborne, an inspiring ISP operations leader, shares his remarkable journey from fast food to IT leadership without a traditional degree. He emphasizes that your starting point doesn't limit your potential, advocating for hard work and networking. Matthew discusses the importance of resilience, how he navigated early job fears, and the value of practical experience over certifications. He highlights the significance of trust within teams and staying committed long-term, offering valuable advice for those looking to break into tech.
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From Fast Food To The NOC
- Matthew Oborne got his first tech job through a friend who vouched for his work ethic, moving him from fast food to a NOC swing shift.
- He accepted the role for better hours and stability, not because he was a lifelong tech enthusiast.
Passion Isn't Required To Succeed
- Matthew doesn't identify as a tech nerd but enjoys troubleshooting and practical problem solving.
- Passion for tech isn't required; consistent curiosity and pragmatic troubleshooting suffice.
Use Resources And Learn In Steps
- Admit your technical limits and learn who your subject-matter experts are, then ask targeted questions and retain answers.
- Use small learning steps and build on breadcrumbs rather than trying to learn everything at once.