

Should Apple's certifications be free?
12 snips Jan 28, 2025
In a thought-provoking conversation, Alan West, a veteran Apple admin with 30 years of experience, discusses the ethics behind charging for Apple IT certifications. He emphasizes the need for free training to boost staff skills and device adoption. Alan shares his journey from military service to Mac administration, detailing the transition from PC to Apple in enterprise settings. He also highlights the relevance of community support and mentorship in navigating the evolving landscape of Mac management and device advancements.
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Nashville Mac Admins User Group
- Alan West saw a need for a Mac admins user group in Nashville.
- The group launched successfully with Jamf's support and aims for broader tech community inclusion.
From History to Mac Admin
- Alan West's background is in history and political science, not computers.
- His interest in Macs began in college, leading him to learn repair and networking, which launched his IT career.
Accidental Hiring
- A chance encounter with a "computer superstore" hiring sign led to Alan West's first formal IT job.
- His Mac repair skills landed him the position, despite the store being PC-centric.