Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How long have your worked in the tech industry?
I have worked in the technology industry since 2006, however my initial role was not technology focused. I have worked in technical focused roles since 2010 ranging from building out systems in an integration center to going out into the field and meeting with our customers to address their technology needs.
What Certifications do you hold and when did you get them?
My first certification was the CompTIA A+ which I earned in 2000. I earned my CCNA R&S in 2009. In 2010, I added CCNA Security to my certs. Then in 2011, I earned a CCNP R&S. I completed my CCIE Data Center in 2015. I have also held NetApp and VMWare certs, but those have since expired.
What is your CCIE number?
CCIE# 49450
How long did it take to get a CCIE?
I made two runs at a CCIE. The first was in 2012 when I passed the written exam on the CCIE Routing and Switching. However I didn’t realize what I had gotten into at that time and had no professional support for pursuing the certification. In the end, I did not make a lab attempt.
The second time was in 2014 and I had moved into a position at my company where I had support for pursuing a CCIE. In March of 2014, I decided to attempt the CCIE Data Center when I attended Cisco Live in May 2014. I passed the written exam at Cisco Live, May 2014 and then went into my first lab exam in November 2014. My first lab attempt was a total crash and burn, but learning from the experience, I attempted the lab again in March 2015, where I failed again. It was July of 2015 when I made my third lab attempt and passed.
Your CCNAs are in Routing & Switching and Security. Your CCNP is Routing & Switching. Why did you get a CCNP in Data Center?
The reason I do not hold a CCNA or CCNP in Data Center is because at the time I was working on those certifications, the Data Center option didn’t exist. However, my experience has been mostly in Data Center and working on converged architecture solutions such as FlexPod and when I had the opportunity to pursue a CCIE for the second time, it just made sense to go for Data Center.
Can I contact you for consulting and/or contract work?
No. My employment situation prevents me from engaging in personal private contracting work related to the industry in which I work.
