Why CCNA is crucial for all tech talent. Meet Daniel Patrick.
When the COVID-19 pandemic struck, tech talent Daniel Patrick scored an interview opportunity with the team at Google (London) and was asked if he had a CCNA certification – this is what triggered his learning journey at ICE Malta. Today he is the Systems & Network Administrator at RS2 Software and has the drive as well as the determination which inspires other talent to become industry-ready and gain the skills that top global brands want. This is his story.
Why did you enroll for Cisco CCNA?
During the first few months of the COVID-19 pandemic, I applied for the role of Systems & Network Administrator at the Google Headquarters in London. My first interview went well however during the interview process the team at Google asked me if I had the CCNA Certification and this is what inspired me to enroll. I couldn’t fly abroad due to COVID-19 so my interview process ended there.
How relevant is CCNA for individuals who work in tech?
Firstly, I thought that because of my BSc. Hons. Degree in IT & Computer Networks I’d find CCNA to be easier. I understood some concepts because we had already mentioned them at University, however, I can say that CCNA really does go into more depth and is exactly what the industry demands. In my opinion, talent who have either BSc. Hons. Degree or MSc. Degree are on the right track. However, the Cisco CCNA course is more specific and goes into more detail when it comes to certain networking topics and best practices. This course gives you more hands-on experience and valuable industry insight. Another advantage is that with the insight, skills and, knowledge that I have gained I can teach other people in my department – a big plus for RS2 Software.
You were taught by an industry expert, how did this help you during your study experience?
During the first few weeks, I had already noticed that my educator had a vast knowledge in this field. In fact, I would ask questions and he would answer them from his own experience. Apart from the CCNA, he also had a good grasp of other areas in IT which made the lessons more interesting. He included detailed examples by mentioning different scenarios of what we might face in an everyday situation. He also replied to all the questions that I had and always made the lessons even more engaging. In my case, the biggest challenge was time. The course is intensive, there is a lot to cover so the more time you have to dedicate to learning between one lesson and another the better. Also as this is an industry certification you need to craft a smart study plan to get exam-ready – the questions and practicals can be tricky. At the end of the day, hard work pays off and I was really happy when I achieved this prestigious certificate which proves that I am industry-ready.
You have big goals which we are certain that you will reach and tell us what’s next for you.
Yes, first of all, I would like to share my knowledge with like-minded talent. Also, my goal is to keep studying other courses such as CCNA Security, Azure, LPIC, MCSA, CEH, ITIL, AWS, etc. I also would like to focus more on IT Security, Cyber Security, Pen Testing, Computer Forensics and, Analysis with Ethical Hacking. At the moment I am trying to master my skill-set using Kali Linux, Qubes OS and, Parrot OS. Other programs that I’m being trained on are Nmap, Burp Suite, John the Ripper and, Metasploit. I would like to protect companies and large entities such as RS2 Software from Cyber Attacks by building robust designs and having a resilient defense system. I want to teach them why such companies are a target and being at risk by educating their people. I’m constantly attending webinars and events because that’s how you learn, grow and meet people where each has different experiences.
Share your words of encouragement to tech talent who feel that they are stuck in their career.
If you are willing to commit to hard work and dedicate time then there is a course that will lead you to your career goal. If you ever fail an exam, keep on trying as I’m sure that you will make it – just put in the effort, persistence is key. Also, be ready to ask questions because you can’t learn something without asking and actively participating in class. Remember, there are no shortcuts however the results are very rewarding! Keep in mind that “An investment in knowledge pays the best interest over time” – whatever you learn will stay with you forever as nobody can take that knowledge away from you. Always be prepared so when the time and opportunities come, you will have all the skills you need ready under your belt. My final advice would be to get your hands dirty, practical learning is key – work hard at school as this will surely help you reach your aspirations and drive you forward.
You don’t need a crystal ball to know that Daniel Patrick will score big career wins, leave his mark at top brands and help push the fast-growing tech industry forward. We are proud of his commitment to world-class learning and can’t wait to see which certifications he achieves next.
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My lecturer helped us become industry-ready by including detailed examples and scenarios which mimic what happens in tech departments in everyday situations
DANIEL PATRICKSystems & Network Administrator
