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<h2>brewing a stronger it career: from helpdesk to higher ed</h2>
<p>03 Jan 2024 - </p>
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<p>Hello everyone!</p>
<p>Today, I want to share some exciting personal updates and reflections on my ongoing journey in the tech world.</p>
<h2 id="hitting-the-glass-ceiling-with-an-associates-degree">Hitting the Glass Ceiling with an Associate’s Degree</h2>
<p>For a while now, I’ve been navigating the IT landscape with my Associate’s degree in hand. While it’s been a valuable stepping stone, I’ve increasingly felt the constraints of what some call the “glass ceiling” in the tech industry. Despite my efforts and experience, I’ve found myself confined primarily to helpdesk roles. It’s a common plateau many of us in tech face, and it’s led me to a significant decision.</p>
<h2 id="stepping-up-my-admission-to-wgus-accelerated-it-program">Stepping Up: My Admission to WGU’s Accelerated IT Program</h2>
<p>I’m thrilled to announce my admission to Western Governors University’s accelerated Bachelor’s and Master’s Degree program in Information Technology, starting on February 1, 2024. This program is a unique opportunity for me to deepen my knowledge, broaden my skills, and break through the career barriers I’ve been facing.</p>
<h2 id="why-further-education">Why Further Education?</h2>
<p>I’ve always believed in the power of education to fill in knowledge gaps and open new doors. With technology evolving at a breakneck pace, there’s always more to learn. This program is not just about getting higher qualifications; it’s about equipping myself to contribute more significantly to the field I am passionate about.</p>
<h2 id="the-role-of-my-homelab">The Role of My Homelab</h2>
<p>My homelab has been a cornerstone of my learning journey. It’s where I experiment, explore, and expand my practical knowledge of IT systems. I anticipate that the WGU program will not only benefit from my hands-on experience in the homelab but will also provide new insights and challenges that I can bring back to my personal lab setup and services I provide.</p>
<h2 id="a-call-for-support">A Call for Support</h2>
<p>As I embark on this new educational path, any support to enhance my homelab capabilities and cover the costs of running services would be greatly appreciated. Your support, whether through knowledge sharing, equipment recommendations, or financial contributions, will play a crucial role in my journey.</p>
<h2 id="merchandise-on-the-horizon">Merchandise on the Horizon</h2>
<p>In other exciting news, I’m working on launching a range of merchandise on Redbubble. This is not just about creating cool, tech-themed items; it’s a creative outlet for me and a way to connect with the community. Stay tuned for more updates!</p>
<p>Logo for merch:</p>
<p><img src="/assets/logos/logo-no-background.png" alt="d@n tech logo" title="d@n tech logo" /></p>
<h2 id="in-closing">In Closing</h2>
<p>I’m at an exciting crossroads, filled with new challenges and opportunities. I look forward to sharing my experiences and learnings with all of you. Let’s continue to grow and learn together in this ever-evolving world of technology.</p>
<p>Thank you for being a part of my journey!</p>
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<h2>my it odyssey: from entry-level to expertise</h2>
<p>22 Jan 2024 - </p>
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<h4 id="introduction">Introduction</h4>
<p>Hello, I’m Dustin, and I’ve been navigating the dynamic world of IT support since 2017. With a foundation in Computer Network Systems and Administration from ITT-Tech (2013), my career has taken me through various roles, each offering unique challenges and learnings. Today, I’d like to share my journey, hoping to inspire those starting in IT or looking to advance in this field.</p>
<h4 id="first-steps-at-delta-sonic-car-wash-2017-2019">First Steps at Delta Sonic Car Wash (2017-2019)</h4>
<ul>
<li><strong>Role:</strong> Computer Support Technician</li>
<li><strong>Scope:</strong> Managed IT needs across 9 locations in 2 cities.</li>
<li><strong>Deeper Dive:</strong>
<ul>
<li><strong>Challenges Faced:</strong> Tackling complex POS system issues and network dilemmas was a daily task, pushing me to develop effective troubleshooting skills.</li>
<li><strong>Skill Development:</strong> This role was crucial in honing my technical problem-solving abilities and customer service skills, teaching me the value of patience and clear communication.</li>
<li><strong>Key Takeaways:</strong> I learned the importance of a meticulous approach to diagnostics and the necessity of translating tech jargon into understandable language for non-tech staff.</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
<h4 id="leveling-up-at-nys-its-2019-2023">Leveling Up at NYS ITS (2019-2023)</h4>
<ul>
<li><strong>Role:</strong> Level 2 IT Support (L2 ITS)</li>
<li><strong>Scope:</strong> Provided IT support for 25 agencies over 10 counties in Central NY.</li>
<li><strong>Expanding Horizons:</strong>
<ul>
<li><strong>Broader Impact:</strong> My efforts here went beyond fixing immediate issues, contributing to smoother operations across multiple agencies.</li>
<li><strong>Professional Growth:</strong> This period was marked by growth in project management and strategic planning, as I spearheaded hardware rollouts and upgrades.</li>
<li><strong>Memorable Projects:</strong> A significant project I managed was the standup of the Mass Vaccination Site at the NYS Fairgrounds, which taught me valuable lessons in large-scale project execution.</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
<h4 id="current-role-at-virtual-service-operations-vso-2023-present">Current Role at Virtual Service Operations (VSO) (2023-Present)</h4>
<ul>
<li><strong>Role:</strong> Raytheon Technology Deskside Support at Pratt &amp; Whitney</li>
<li><strong>Scope:</strong> Catering to the IT needs of about 200 users at the Pratt and Whitney PSD campus.</li>
<li><strong>Current Endeavors:</strong>
<ul>
<li><strong>Solo Operations:</strong> As the only IT support on campus, I handle everything from software installations to complex troubleshooting, ensuring smooth tech operations for all users.</li>
<li><strong>Adapting to Change:</strong> This role requires me to be agile and up-to-date with the latest technologies, adapting quickly to new challenges and IT methodologies.</li>
<li><strong>Independent Problem Solving:</strong> Working alone has honed my ability to tackle issues independently and develop innovative solutions, reinforcing the importance of self-reliance and resourcefulness in tech support.</li>
</ul>
</li>
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<h4 id="future-plans-and-aspirations">Future Plans and Aspirations</h4>
<ul>
<li><strong>Academic Pursuits:</strong> I’m excited to start an Accelerated Bachelor’s and Master’s IT degree program at WGU on 2/1/24, aiming to deepen my knowledge and open new career avenues.</li>
<li><strong>Career Vision:</strong> Post-graduation, I envision a role that not only challenges me but also aligns more closely with my passion for emerging technologies and innovative solutions.</li>
</ul>
<h4 id="personal-reflections">Personal Reflections</h4>
<ul>
<li><strong>The Tech Landscape:</strong> The IT field has evolved tremendously, and I believe we’re on the cusp of more groundbreaking changes in technology and how we interact with it.</li>
<li><strong>Work-Life Balance:</strong> Balancing a demanding career with personal passions like homelabs and Pathfinder gaming has been a fulfilling journey in itself.</li>
</ul>
<h4 id="conclusion">Conclusion</h4>
<p>My journey through the IT landscape has been enriching and enlightening. I’m grateful for the challenges and opportunities I’ve encountered, and I hope my story encourages others to pursue their own path in tech. If you’re on a similar journey, I’d love to hear about your experiences and challenges. Together, let’s continue to learn, grow, and innovate in this ever-evolving field.</p>
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<h2>java journeys: transitioning to it infrastructure at wolfspeed</h2>
<p>22 Mar 2024 - </p>
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<h4 id="introduction">Introduction:</h4>
<p>Hey there, folks! Today, I’m sharing a pivotal moment in my career journey with you at d@n tech. After five months of serving as a Desktop Support Specialist at Pratt &amp; Whitney PSD, I’ve moved into a new role as an IT Infrastructure Support Technician at Wolfspeed.</p>
<h4 id="my-time-at-pratt--whitney-psd">My Time at Pratt &amp; Whitney PSD:</h4>
<p>At Pratt &amp; Whitney PSD, I was the go-to guy for 200 end users, juggling tasks in office spaces and on the bustling machining floor. It was a busy gig that taught me the value of staying cool under pressure and finding solutions on the fly.</p>
<h4 id="transitioning-to-wolfspeed">Transitioning to Wolfspeed:</h4>
<p>Now, I’m settling into life at Wolfspeed, where I’m supporting around 80 end users across office and electrical lab environments. My plate is full with projects, L2 support, and handling the ins and outs of new user deployments.</p>
<h4 id="facing-the-challenges">Facing the Challenges:</h4>
<p>Switching gears to a new role isn’t without its hurdles. Getting acquainted with Wolfspeed’s IT setup and catering to a smaller user base has been a bit of a learning curve. But hey, every challenge is just a chance to level up, right?</p>
<h4 id="embracing-the-opportunities">Embracing the Opportunities:</h4>
<p>Despite the adjustments, I’m pumped about what lies ahead. Wolfspeed offers a chance to dive deep into IT infrastructure support, exploring new tech and fine-tuning my project management chops along the way.</p>
<h4 id="a-blend-of-passion-and-purpose">A Blend of Passion and Purpose:</h4>
<p>For a homelabber and tech enthusiast like me, this career shift is more than just a job change - it’s about pursuing what fires me up and pushing myself to grow, both personally and professionally.</p>
<h4 id="looking-forward">Looking Forward:</h4>
<p>As I settle into my groove at Wolfspeed, I’ll be dishing out insights, tips, and tales from the trenches of IT support. So keep an eye out for more updates and musings as we journey through the world of tech and coffee together here at d@n tech.</p>
<h4 id="conclusion">Conclusion:</h4>
<p>Change can be a wild ride, but it’s all about rolling with the punches and savoring the journey. Here’s to new beginnings, endless possibilities, and a good old cup of Americano to keep us grounded along the way.</p>
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<h2>a roast of reality: life changes, career shifts, and what's next</h2>
<p>27 Nov 2024 - </p>
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<p>Life can be compared to coffee: bitter, sweet, and full of unexpected flavors. Over the past few years, I’ve experienced various life changes and career shifts that have brought challenges and opportunities. Let’s explore my journey in several distinct phases.</p>
<h4 id="the-big-decision">The Big Decision</h4>
<p>In April 2024, my wife decided to leave her PhD program. This pivotal moment led us to reevaluate our priorities and consider a change of scenery. We decided to move back to New York on August 1st, 2024, seeking new opportunities and a fresh start.</p>
<h4 id="facing-challenges">Facing Challenges</h4>
<p>Upon returning to New York, financial responsibilities took center stage. To meet these obligations, I took a job at Walmart towards the end of August 2024. Although it wasn’t my dream position, I reminded myself that every experience offers room for growth and learning.</p>
<h4 id="new-opportunities">New Opportunities</h4>
<p>As the seasons changed, so did my luck. On October 1st, 2024, I began a new role as a contractor through MergeIT, working with Waygate Tech in Skaneateles. This position allowed me to put my IT expertise to good use and reignite my passion for technology.</p>
<h4 id="future-aspirations">Future Aspirations</h4>
<p>Even as I settle into my current role, I’m still looking for opportunities to return to New York State ITS. The public sector presents unique challenges and a chance to make a positive impact on a broader scale.</p>
<h4 id="embracing-change">Embracing Change</h4>
<p>Moving forward, I’m committed to embracing whatever life has in store for me, whether it’s another career change or a fresh start in a new city. Just as coffee beans must undergo a roasting process to reveal their full potential, life’s twists and turns can refine us, fostering growth and resilience.
In conclusion, life is unpredictable, and careers can be uncertain. By staying true to ourselves and embracing new experiences, we can weather any storm and come out stronger. So, let’s raise a cup to life’s bitter and sweet moments and toast the journey ahead!
It’s been four months since I last posted on this blog. This hiatus is mainly due to a lack of time, energy, and uncertainty about what to share. However, I’m committed to getting back into the swing of things and providing valuable content for my readers. Thank you for your patience and continued support.</p>
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