Cloud computing has transformed the technology landscape, turning from a buzzword into a strategic necessity across industries. Yet, for those just beginning their careers—or even seasoned professionals seeking to reinvent themselves—the path forward is more complex than ever. The days of simply learning how to spin up a server or migrate workloads are long gone. Today, the pace of innovation, the breadth of services, and the need for alignment with business strategy mean the cloud is about much more than technology—it's about vision, adaptability, and impact.

If I were starting my cloud career over today, I wouldn't just focus on mastering platforms or passing exams. I'd be looking at bigger, strategic moves: crafting architectures that fuel business growth, advocating for real transformation, mastering cloud economics, and keeping pace with relentless change. The industry now prizes thought leadership, business understanding, and the ability to connect technology to outcomes that really matter. In this video, I'll walk you through the seven most important things I would do differently to thrive from day one—drawing from three decades in the industry and a front-row seat to the cloud's ongoing evolution. Get ready for honest advice, strategic insights, and a candid roadmap for success.