Working In Tech

Working In Tech

By juwonthetechieTechnology
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Working In Tech episodes

  • Ep 60 - How to Become A Software Engineer with Levi Okoye

    On this episode of #WorkingInTech, we're talking to Levi. Levi is a software developer, content creator, and college student passionate about building products that make a difference.Through his YouTube channel, Levi shares insights on the tech industry, upskilling, and career growth, helping developers navigate their careers and stay ahead in a fast-changing field.Levi will share his journey as a developer, the impact of content creation in tech, and tips for growing your skills and career.𝕏 CONNECT WITH ME ON SOCIALS 𝕏Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/juwonthetechie/Twitter: https://twitter.com/JuwonTheTechieThreads: https://www.threads.net/@juwonthetechieIG: https://www.instagram.com/juwonthetechie/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/juwon-io/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@juwonthetechieCONNECT WITH LEVILinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/levi-okoye/CHAPTERS0:00 - Intro2:00 - Why Tech?11:00 - Self-learning vs College24:10 - A Long Journey30:12 - Content Creation Journey39:00 - Sharing Online51:35 - Impostor Syndrome55:45 - Future Plans58:45 - Proof of Improvement1:03:50 - Inspirations1:07:17 - Final Words1:10:31 - Conclusion

    1 hr 11 min
  • Ep 59 - How to Become A Data Analytics Engineer with Esther Taiwo

    On this episode of #WorkingInTech, we're talking to Esther Taiwo. Esther is an AI & Data Analytics Engineer who has worked with industry leaders like Access Bank, American Express, and SDG&E. She uses technology to solve problems, unlock insights, and fuel business growth.
    As a member of ForbesBLK and Afrotech Insider, Esther is committed to advancing AI-driven strategies that empower businesses to expand and thrive.
    Esther will share her journey into AI and data analytics, lessons from her work with leading companies, and advice for using technology to make an impact.𝕏 CONNECT WITH ME ON SOCIALS 𝕏Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/juwonthetechie/Twitter: https://twitter.com/JuwonTheTechieThreads: https://www.threads.net/@juwonthetechieIG: https://www.instagram.com/juwonthetechie/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/juwon-io/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@juwonthetechieCONNECT WITH ESTHERLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/esther-taiwo-aa84b4b2/
    CHAPTERS
    0:00 - Intro
    1:10 - Breaking into Tech in 2025
    8:00 - Getting the first Tech Job
    13:00 - The First Two Offers
    18:30 - Interviews
    23:50 - Nigeria vs US
    25:00 - Interviews are harder than the Job
    28:30 - Frameworks for Interviews
    31:00 - Finding out info about your Role
    34:45 - Mentorship
    44:30 - The day-to-day
    47:00 - AI & Data Engineering
    53:20 - Roadmap for Newbies
    59:10 - Salary
    59:45 - Final Words
    1:00:50 - Conclusion

    1 hr 3 min
  • Ep 58 - How to Become A Security Engineer with Olasunkanmi Sodunke

    On this episode of #WorkingInTech, we're talking to Olasunkanmi, also known as Yaki. Yaki is a cybersecurity enthusiast, developer, and tech problem-solver pursuing his Master’s in Cybersecurity at Purdue University with a perfect 4.0 GPA.

    Yaki has gained experience at companies like Bloomberg, GEICO, and Capgemini, where he’s worked on red team engagements, incident response, security engineering, and advanced security architecture. He also holds over 10 Cloud & Security certifications, including OSCP, CRTO, and AWS Certified Cloud Practitioner, which have played a vital role in his journey.
    Yaki will share his path into tech, his passion for solving complex problems, and actionable tips for navigating this ever-evolving field.
    𝕏 CONNECT WITH ME ON SOCIALS 𝕏
    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/juwonthetechie/
    Twitter: https://twitter.com/JuwonTheTechie
    Threads: https://www.threads.net/@juwonthetechie
    IG: https://www.instagram.com/juwonthetechie/
    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/juwon-io/
    TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@juwonthetechie
    CONNECT WITH YAKI
    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sodunke-olasunkanmi/
    CHAPTERS
    0:00 - Intro
    1:05 - Where does ‘Yaki’ Come From?
    1:50 - Why Tech?
    5:30 - Diverse Experiences in Tech
    10:05 - Getting the First Job
    14:43 - No. 1 Skill
    17:55 - Getting a Master’s
    22:50 - Networking
    24:00 - Academic Excellence
    26:18 - Certifications to Have
    31:00 - Failure
    35:00 - Passing the Security +
    37:35 - Biggest Learning Curve
    40:40 - Newbie in Cybersecurity
    46:30 - Salary Progression
    49:00 - Goldman Sachs Program
    58:05 - Projects
    1:00:10 - Collaboration
    1:03:10 - Final Words
    1:05:10 - Conclusion

    1 hr 6 min
  • Ep 57 - How to Become A Security Engineer with Devonie Nelson

    On this episode of #WorkingInTech, we're talking to Devonie Nelson. Devonie began her cybersecurity journey in 2022 while pursuing a Master’s in Security Management at the University of Houston-Downtown. With no technical background, she overcame challenges and discovered her passion for the field.

    Through mentorship and involvement in organizations like Black Girls Hack and Women in Cybersecurity, Devonie is committed to helping minorities and first-generation students navigate their paths into STEM.
    Devonie will share her story of breaking into cybersecurity, insights from her journey, and advice for anyone starting their own tech career.
    𝕏 CONNECT WITH ME ON SOCIALS 𝕏
    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/juwonthetechie/
    Twitter: https://twitter.com/JuwonTheTechie
    Threads: https://www.threads.net/@juwonthetechie
    IG: https://www.instagram.com/juwonthetechie/
    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/juwon-io/
    TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@juwonthetechie
    CONNECT WITH DEVONIE
    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/devonie-nelson/
    CHAPTERS
    0:00 - Intro
    1:10 - Breaking into Tech in 2025
    4:00 - Using Resources and Self-learning
    10:05 - Choosing the Path in Tech
    12:10 - Seeing it’s Possible
    15:55 - Getting the First Job
    23:00 - LinkedIn
    28:30 - Handling Stress
    30:20 - Tips for Mastering Cybersecurity
    32:45 - Finding a Mentor
    35:20 - Questions to ask a Mentor
    42:15 - Keeping up with the News
    44:00 - The Different Roles in Cybersecurity
    47:15 - Coding in Cybersecurity
    48:08 - Certifications
    54:15 - Network Engineering
    55:11 - Department of Defense Certifications
    57:10 - Earning Potential
    1:03:00 - IT Support Roles as a Path
    1:04:40 - Final Words
    1:05:00 - Conclusion

    1 hr 6 min
  • Ep 56 - How to Become A Solutions Architect with Eno Akpan

    On this episode of #WorkingInTech, we're talking to Eno Akpan. Eno is a Solution Architect with a background in biomedical and software engineering. After starting her career at Goldman Sachs, she transitioned into biomedical research before finding her place in the tech world.

    Eno brings a unique blend of technical skills and strategic thinking, bridging business needs and technology solutions. In this episode, Eno will share her journey into tech, how she made her career transitions, and the insights that have shaped her success. Don’t miss it!

    𝕏 CONNECT WITH ME ON SOCIALS 𝕏
    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/juwonthetechie/
    Twitter: https://twitter.com/JuwonTheTechie
    Threads: https://www.threads.net/@juwonthetechie
    IG: https://www.instagram.com/juwonthetechie/
    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/juwon-io/
    TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@juwonthetechie

    CONNECT WITH ENO
    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/eno-akpan/

    CHAPTERS
    0:00 - Intro
    1:00 - Breaking into Tech
    6:02 - Learning Journey
    12:50 - Getting the First Role
    16:17 - Leaving Goldman Sachs
    17:15 - Switching Roles in Tech
    23:50 - Toolsets
    31:25 - What is DevOps?
    33:00 - How to Become a DevOps Engineer
    34:55 - DevOps Tools
    36:00 - Continuous Learning
    37:10 - Building a Support System
    41:20 - Experience in Multiple Roles
    47:48 - Earning Potential
    50:00 - Mentorship and Networking
    54:10 - Advice for Newbies
    55:42 - Final Words
    56:30 - Conclusion

    59 min
  • Ep 55 - How to Become A Product Manager with Walner Dort

    On this episode of #WorkingInTech, we're talking to Walner Dort. Walner is a Senior Product Manager at Microsoft with a strong background in engineering, team leadership, and product operations. He leads work on Defender for APIs and DevOps Security as part of the Customer Engineering (CXE) team, focusing on customer adoption, product updates, and feedback-driven improvements.
    Walner is skilled in product leadership, roadmapping, research, and cross-functional collaboration. Known for his analytical approach, he consistently delivers solutions that align with business goals.
    Walner will share insights from his career, tips for thriving in product management, and advice for driving innovation and collaboration in tech.
    CONNECT WITH ME:
    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/juwonthetechie/
    Twitter: https://twitter.com/JuwonTheTechie
    Threads: https://www.threads.net/@juwonthetechie
    IG: https://www.instagram.com/juwonthetechie/
    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/juwon-io/
    TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@juwonthetechie
    CONNECT WITH WALNER:
    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/walnerdort/
    Substack: walner.substack.com
    CHAPTERS
    0:00 - Intro
    1:00 - Breaking into Tech
    6:00 - Networking at Events
    9:46 - Working at Microsoft
    11:38 - Product Engineering vs Product Management
    18:15 - Getting into Cybersecurity
    24:00 - How to Learn Cybersecurity
    25:35 - API & DevOps
    29:15 - Getting Better at Interviews
    40:20 - Self-learning
    47:05 - Finding Mentors
    51:25 - Is Product Saturated?
    53:35 - Details vs Big Picture
    56:10 - Building a better Life with Tech
    58:40 - Why Macro-thinking?
    1:00:20 - Salary Progression
    1:01:50 - Final Words
    1:03:20 - Conclusion

    1 hr 5 min
  • Ep 54 - How to Become A Wireless Solutions Consultant with Wes Jones

    On this episode of #WorkingInTech, we’re talking to Wes Jones, a seasoned Wireless Solutions Consultant with over six years in telecommunications, working with industry leaders like AT&T and T-Mobile. Wes has built his career helping businesses optimize through custom connectivity solutions, from fiber to wireless.

    Currently pursuing an MBA with a focus on Data Analytics, Finance, and Entrepreneurship, Wes is adding even more depth to his work. Today, he’ll share his journey in telecom, insights on driving business growth through connectivity, and tips for building a successful tech career.
    𝕏 CONNECT WITH ME ON SOCIALS 𝕏
    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/juwonthetechie/
    Twitter: https://twitter.com/JuwonTheTechie
    Threads: https://www.threads.net/@juwonthetechie
    IG: https://www.instagram.com/juwonthetechie/
    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/juwon-io/
    TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@juwonthetechie
    CONNECT WITH WES
    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wes-jones-783517241/
    CHAPTERS
    0:00 - Intro
    1:10 - Discovering Sales and Tech
    8:00 - Who is a Solutions Consultant?
    14:50 - Getting an MBA
    17:10 - What’s Next?
    18:38 - A Day In The Life
    21:40 - Winning and Losing in Sales
    24:00 - Mentoring
    27:50 - Teamwork
    29:18 - Fiber Networking
    36:20 - “Everyone is in Sales”
    45:03 - Securing the First Role
    48:24 - Courses, Books, & Learning
    50:10 - Salary Progression
    53:44 - Interview Prep
    55:35 - Potential of Growth in the Industry
    57:50 - Networking
    1:00:04 - Final Words
    1:01:00 - Conclusion

    1 hr 3 min
  • Ep 53 - How to Become A UX Strategist with Zalyia Grillet

    On this episode of #WorkingInTech, we're talking to Zalyia Grillet, a UX Conceptual Creative with over 11 years of experience transforming user experiences for Fortune 500 companies like Deloitte Digital, General Electric, and Salesforce. Recognized on platforms like Beyoncé’s site and People of Color in Tech, Zalyia has shaped her career at the intersection of ethnomusicology, UX, and behavioral science.

    As the founder of TechUnleashed, Zalyia leads a community of Black creatives in tech, combining her passions for music, fashion, and art with mentorship to uplift others. She consults with organizations like RVATech and Black Girls in Cyber to make tech more inclusive.
    Zalyia will share her journey as a UX visionary, her insights on building inclusive tech spaces, and advice for blending creativity with tech to make a real impact.
    𝕏 CONNECT WITH ME ON SOCIALS 𝕏
    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/juwonthetechie/
    Twitter: https://twitter.com/JuwonTheTechie
    Threads: https://www.threads.net/@juwonthetechie
    IG: https://www.instagram.com/juwonthetechie/
    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/juwon-io/
    TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@juwonthetechie
    CONNECT WITH ZALYIA
    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/zgrillet/
    Website: http://zgrillet.co/
    CHAPTERS
    0:00 - Intro
    1:00 - Choosing UX
    12:40 - Finding a Community
    18:30 - Finding a Purpose
    24:20 - The First Role
    31:45 - Keys to Understanding UX
    35:41 - Challenges of being in UX
    41:35 - Salary Progression
    47:50 - Getting in on the Ground Floor
    51:15 - Career Progression
    53:15 - AI & UX
    54:45 - TechUnleashed
    57:00 - Final Words
    58:41 - Conclusion

    1 hr
  • Ep 52 - How to Become A Product Manager with Kanika Tolver

    The #WorkingInTech series follows the career journeys of thriving professionals, unpacking their stories to turn lessons learned into practical tips to help you make winning career moves.
    In this episode of #WorkingInTech, we’ll be talking to Kanika Tolver, CEO, founder of Career Rehab, LLC, and an experienced product manager. Through her company, Kanika helps clients transform their careers with coaching programs, webinars, events, and digital resources designed to help them reach their career goals.
    Kanika, featured on platforms like CNN, CNBC, and Black Enterprise, is also the author of the acclaimed book *Career Rehab: Rebuild Your Personal Brand and Rethink the Way You Work*.
    Tune in to hear Kanika’s insights on career coaching, her experience as a product manager, and actionable advice on building a personal brand that empowers you to take control of your career path.
    𝕏 CONNECT WITH ME ON SOCIALS 𝕏
    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/juwonthetechie/
    Twitter: https://twitter.com/JuwonTheTechie
    Threads: https://www.threads.net/@juwonthetechie
    IG: https://www.instagram.com/juwonthetechie/
    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/juwon-io/
    TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@juwonthetechie
    CONNECT WITH KANIKA
    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kanikatolver/
    Website: http://kanikatolver.com/
    Career Rehab: http://careerrehabacademy.com/
    CHAPTERS
    0:00 - Intro
    1:00 - Helping People Break into Tech
    2:35 - Why Tech?
    6:30 - First Job in Tech
    10:45 - Interviewing
    14:44 - Questions to Ask the Interviewer
    17:55 - From Developer to Product Manager
    21:25 - Continuous Learning
    27:45 - ServiceNow
    35:55 - Certifications
    44:40 - Public vs Private Sector
    49:38 - Salary Progression
    51:55 - Salary Negotiation
    1:01:55 - Learning and Teaching
    1:04:50 - Final Words
    1:06:45 - Conclusion

    1 hr 9 min
  • Ep 51 - How to Become An AI Innovation Manager with Rachel Alexander

    The #WorkingInTech series showcases the diverse journeys of successful tech professionals, offering valuable insights to help you navigate your own career path.
    In this episode, we're talking with Rachel Alexander, AI Innovation Lead at Clario. With over a decade of experience in product and program management, Rachel has become a driving force in AI and Business Development.
    Rachel's tech journey began in an unexpected place - as an assistant manager at Hertz Car Rental. She'll share how internal networking and a belief in mentorship led her from the Chicago Housing Authority to the forefront of AI in biotech.
    At Clario, Rachel consults with biotech teams to implement AI solutions effectively. She'll discuss how she balances the need for speed with delivering high-quality, innovative, and scalable solutions.
    Rachel will offer insights on:
    - Transitioning into tech from non-traditional backgrounds
    - The importance of internal networking and mentorship
    - Applying AI in the biotech industry
    - Balancing innovation with practical implementation
    Whether you're looking to break into tech or advance your current tech career, Rachel's story and advice will provide valuable guidance for your journey.
    𝕏 CONNECT WITH ME ON SOCIALS 𝕏
    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/juwonthetechie/
    Twitter: https://twitter.com/JuwonTheTechie
    Threads: https://www.threads.net/@juwonthetechie
    IG: https://www.instagram.com/juwonthetechie/
    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/juwon-io/
    TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@juwonthetechie
    CONNECT WITH RACHEL
    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rachel-a-827772a/
    CHAPTERS
    0:00 - Intro
    1:26 - Choosing BioTech
    2:50 - What is AI Innovation?
    6:46 - In the Beginning
    16:36 - Career Paths in AI
    24:30 - Job Search Strategies
    27:00 - What’s a Good Resume?
    33:30 - Networking
    36:32 - The Thread Between Roles
    39:00 - Problem-focused vs Solution-focused
    48:15 - Guiding Principles
    51:18 - Salary
    57:18 - PM Portfolio Pro
    1:00:00 - Final Words
    1:02:47 - Interview Tips
    1:05:45 - Conclusion

    1 hr 7 min

About Working In Tech

From the publisher's feed

Welcome to the Working in Tech Podcast, where industry professionals in cybersecurity, DevOps, cloud computing, project management, product management, data analytics, UX design, Scrum, and more come to share their invaluable insights. If you're a tech newbie, this podcast is your guide to starting a new career in tech.