Ever wonder how it’s possible to switch careers and land a dream job? Let’s explore Kirk’s exciting journey from working at Chipotle to securing his first IT job in less than four months!
Meet Kirk
Kirk, like many of us, did not start off in the field he eventually wanted to pursue. With no IT experience and only having worked in a kitchen at Chipotle, his career path took a dramatic turn for the better. How did he do it? Let’s dive in!
Deciding to Jump into IT
Inspired by tech videos and realizing he wanted more than what his current job at Chipotle could offer, Kirk decided it was time for a change. Despite not having a college degree, he was determined to make a career in IT. Through dedication and a clear goal in mind, Kirk was ready to embark on this new journey.
The IT Course
Kirk signed up for an IT course that promised to teach him the basics and beyond. With hard work, he successfully completed the course, which included enhancing his GitHub projects. This wasn’t just about learning; it was about applying what he learned in practical, tangible ways.
- Applying to Jobs: Kirk applied to a whopping 220 jobs, showcasing a commendable level of determination.
- Getting the Offer: His efforts paid off when he received a job offer near his birthday, marking a successful end to his job hunt.
The Power of Preparation
Part of what made Kirk stand out was his preparation. From refining his resume multiple times based on job applications to learning new systems like Jira and Spiceworks through projects, Kirk demonstrated his willingness to learn and adapt. His advice? If something is not working, change it!
Interview Insights
During interviews, his strategy was to showcase not just his technical knowledge but also his problem-solving skills and customer service experience gained from Chipotle. He emphasized his readiness to learn and adapt, a quality that greatly impressed his interviewers.
Transitioning to a New Job
Kirk landed a role at the service desk of an electric company, a position that was both a challenge and an opportunity. Reflecting on his transition, he observed that the fast-paced, multi-tasking environment of a kitchen had surprisingly prepared him well for handling multiple chat supports at once in his new IT role.
Continuous Learning
Kirk’s journey didn’t stop at getting the job. He is now pursuing further studies in networking with a focus on obtaining his CCNA (Cisco Certified Network Associate) certification. This shows a strong commitment to his career and continuous improvement.
Inspiration for Others
For anyone considering a similar path, Kirk’s story is a testament to what determination, preparation, and continuous learning can achieve. His parting advice is to always look for ways to stand out and never give up, even when faced with rejection. It’s all about putting in the effort to change your life and achieve your career goals.
Conclusion
Kirk’s journey is a remarkable story of transition, growth, and success. It highlights the idea that it’s indeed possible to shift careers, even to fields where one initially has little to no experience. Kirk’s determination, strategic preparation, and continuous learning serve as an inspiration to us all.
Remember, no matter where you are starting from, with the right mindset and effort, you too can achieve your career goals.
By the way, don’t forget to check out my Hands-On IT and Cybersecurity Course to help you bridge the gap between just being skilled and actually landing a job!