Mr. Conklin, Information Technology at Avaya
Published 18 May 2020
Tags: IT, engineeringWhy did you choose to pursue this career? What made you certain this was the right path?
He pursued this career because his dad had a similar job to his. He was certain it was the right job because the results from a career test he took in high school said that he may be a good fit in his job position. He was also good at coding, which made this career seem like a good fit.
What events, prior employment, or educational experiences led you to your current job?
His position as a computer operator in college helped lead him to his current job.
What schooling, education, and/or certifications did you complete to prepare you for this career?
Bachelor’s degree in information systems management
How did you make the best use of your time in both your education and career?
He learned lots of new things to apply to his job. He is always learning.
What advice would you give to a high school or college student interested in pursuing this field of work?
He advises a high school or college student learns dev/ops to pursue this field of work.
What opportunities would you suggest high school students participate in?
He suggests that student take coding classes and participate in coding activities.
What does a typical day at your job look like?
He works on projects he is assigned to, where he develops and tests problems. Occasionally, he has meetings and demonstrations.
What was a surprising aspect of your job?
Things are always changing at his work. It is like fashion, one day something is out, and then the next it is in again.
What qualities are necessary to be successful in your field of work, and why?
Self-sufficiency is important because one needs to figure things out by yourself and not be 100% reliant on others.
Do you have any additional advice?
Get a job in information systems as early as you can, experience is everything.