Ep 141 - TikTok Creator and Network Engineer - AdjacentNode

Mar 13, 2024

TikTok creator and network engineer, AdjacentNode, shares his journey from web design to networking, navigating certifications and career transitions. The podcast delves into evolving network engineering through social media, balancing depth and brevity in content creation, and boosting visibility through IT content. It also explores lab environments, mental health maintenance, and social media presence in the tech industry.

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Introduction

00:00 • 2min

Transitioning Roles at Zscaler and Cisco: Embracing New Responsibilities and Opportunities

01:35 • 2min

Gratitude, Transition, and Specialization in Network Engineering

03:35 • 5min

Journey from Web Design to Network Engineering

08:46 • 13min

Navigating Certifications and Career Transitions

22:12 • 12min

Evolving Network Engineering through Social Media

33:59 • 15min

Balancing Depth and Brevity in Network Engineering Content Creation

48:29 • 2min

Navigating Lab Environments and Career Transitions in Networking

50:42 • 8min

Boosting Visibility Through Content Creation

59:12 • 4min

Maintaining Mental Health, Gym Routine, and Social Media Presence

01:02:52 • 3min

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The episode was recorded February 8th, 2024.

Ever wondered how a network engineer's career trajectory weaves through the fabric of IT? Buckle up and join us as we unpack the personal stories of transformation and growth in the network engineering landscape. With AJ starting his new position as a Demo Architect at Zscaler and Andy stretching his wings as a Technical Marketing Engineer, we're diving headfirst into how networking smarts blend with new roles in security and tech marketing. Guest star Kevin, balancing public sector network engineering with TikTok fame, gives us a glimpse of how one navigates the complexities of modern IT careers, while Tim sheds light on the training that's powering his journey as a newly minted Sales Engineer at Cisco.

We learn what sparked Kevin's journey into becoming a TikTok creator and what motivates to continue spreading the word on Network Engineering.

Are certifications the golden tickets they once were? Let's find out together as we share tales from the trenches—like configuring firewalls sans experience and the intense camaraderie of NOC shifts during holidays. Hear how Kevin's pivot from web design to networking ignited his passion, leading to a CCNA and beyond. We also spar over the continuing relevance of certifications like the CCNP, while coming together in agreement on their potential to open doors, especially in partner-driven professional environments.

Finally, as the tech landscape shifts beneath our feet, we explore the future of our field. Will the march of automation and AI spell the end of traditional networking, or is it just another layer to master? We debate the tangibility of physical labs against the allure of virtual environments and muse over how content creation and personal brand cultivation can create unexpected career opportunities. And, despite the tech-heavy discussion, we never underestimate the power of soft skills—because, at the end of the day, it's all about making connections (pun intended).

More from Kevin:
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@adjacentnode
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevinnanns
Blog: https://adjacentnode.com/

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