In this episode of The Smart IT podcast, I welcomed Victor L. Malloy to the show. We discussed the evolving role of IT professionals, the importance of purpose, and navigating a successful career in technology. We explored the generational shift between “digital immigrants” who grew up with early computing (like punch cards and DOS) and “digital natives” born into today’s AI-driven world. He emphasized the importance of bridging that gap through mentorship, experience sharing, and a shared commitment to learning.

Vic offered practical guidance for young IT professionals, encouraging them to go beyond technical certifications and develop real-world skills, business literacy, and human-centered capabilities like communication and leadership. He warned against becoming a “paper tiger”—someone with credentials but no practical application—and urged newcomers to embrace frustration as a natural part of growth.

IT isn’t just about solving technical issues; it's about understanding the business, aligning technology with strategic goals, and creating real value.

A key highlight of the episode is the PIVOT framework: Pause, Imagination, Vision, Organized Plan, and Take Charge. This personal growth model encourages intentionality, clarity, and action in both career and life. Vic also challenged listeners to reflect on five life-defining questions from Dr. Myles Munroe: Why am I here? Who am I? Where am I from? Where am I going? What can I do? These questions form the foundation of finding purpose and meaning, especially in fast-moving, high-pressure IT environments.

Vic closed with a powerful reminder that your gift is unique—and it’s your responsibility to develop and share it, not take it to the grave. With CHOOSE LIFE (Love, Integrity, Family, Education), he tied technical growth to deeper personal values.

Vic brought a blend of hard-earned wisdom, career advice, and life philosophy for anyone who wants to thrive in IT while staying true to themselves.

💬 “Frustration is the weight that builds your technical muscle. Embrace it.”

— Vic Malloy

Link to this episode: https://youtu.be/tTwuipZT-rk

#SmartIT #TechLeadership #ITCareers #PIVOT #CareerGrowth #DigitalTransformation

Production: Brilliant Beam Media with Syya Yasotornrat

Show Notes:

• Vic on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/victor-l-malloy-c-76b791158/
• Dr. Myles Munroe [Munroe Global]: https://www.youtube.com/@MunroeGlobal
• Link to this episode: https://youtu.be/tTwuipZT-rk
• The Smart IT Podcast YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@thesmartitpodcast
• Captivate Website for all episodes: https://the-smart-it-podcast.captivate.fm/