As I gear up for another exciting week, I wanted to share a glimpse into what lies ahead on my path from serving to servers. It’s been an invigorating journey so far, filled with learning, challenges, and unexpected opportunities. So, let’s dive into what’s on the agenda for the week ahead.
1. Skills Focus – Linux: This week, I’ll continue to delve deeper into React and Python and explore the fascinating realm of Artificial Intelligence. In parallel with my project endeavors, I’ll be immersing myself in the world of Linux. Inspired by a recent encounter serving at the retirement party of the former CEO and Chairman of Red Hat, who graciously introduced me to potential opportunities within the company, I’m seizing this moment to deepen my understanding of Linux. From independent study sessions to seeking wisdom from a friend who serves as a systems administrator at a local university, every step brings me closer to unlocking new horizons in the tech landscape.
2. Resources on Red Hat Technologies: As I embark on my Linux learning journey, I’ve been delving into insightful resources provided by Red Hat itself. Articles exploring the nuances between VMs and containers, as well as the unparalleled benefits of open-source platforms, have been instrumental in shaping my understanding of this dynamic field. Armed with knowledge from Containers vs. VMs and What’s a Linux Container?, I’m poised to navigate the intricate terrain of Red Hat technologies with confidence and clarity.
3. Current Project: “usePopcorn” Movie Application: One of the highlights of the week will be diving headfirst into my latest project, “usePopcorn.” As part of “The Ultimate React Course 2024” on Udemy, led by the insightful Jonas Schmedtmann, I’ll be crafting a movie application that promises to revolutionize how we interact with our favorite films. While still in the planning phases, I’m laser-focused on architecting a UI that prioritizes component reusability, setting the stage for a robust and user-friendly experience.
Reflection:
I’ve been kicking around the idea of FromServingToServers.com for the better part of a year. I’ve mentioned it to family and friends and it always got positive feedback. I just needed a place where I could write about my passion for learning, coding, and solving problems; to serve not only as a reminder for myself when I look back years from now, but when successful, as an inspiration for others to reach out or follow my path. Because let’s face it, while having a background in restaurants does not usually lend itself to a career in software, it has more advantages than one would normally associate with a job in corporate. Working in a restaurant, especially during the pandemic, required tenacity, adaptability, and problem-solving skills that align rather nicely with jobs like software developers, or sales engineers. Not to mention a level of customer service, doing it all with a smile.
Posting about my website on LinkedIn felt like a big step in the direction that I’ve been wanting to take my career. Like many others in this macroeconomic climate, I’ve struggled to get conversations with recruiters and hiring managers. Application tracking systems make it nearly impossible to make it to the top of the list to get in front of the right people. My LinkedIn post got a fair amount of engagement, and I had old colleagues of mine reaching out with empathy as they reflected on how they started their current careers. All of this to say, that while I know the journey may not be easy, and I am certainly on a path least taken, I know I’m not alone. I hope that FromServingToServers will become larger than just my portfolio and serve as that guiding light for others looking to do big things in tech.
I hope you enjoyed your time here and hope to see you soon,
Pat
P.S. While gratuity was included, any additional tips can be left below 😉