On this episode, we have Asi, Jayz Carrillo, Oscar Oganiza, and Ragde Falcis joining us to discuss "Paid vs. Unpaid Internships: What’s the Real Value?" and Is free work ever worth it—and is pay really enough?

Internships can kickstart a career—but should they always be paid? In this episode, we examine the true value of internships, especially in tech, where the debate over compensation continues. We hear from students, mentors, and companies about what makes an internship worthwhile, how access and equity come into play, and why the learning experience often matters just as much as the paycheck—or sometimes even more.

What did you learn from your internship that school didn’t teach you? (Generalization)

Internships often teach crucial real-world problem-solving, team collaboration in a professional setting, industry-specific tools and workflows, and the nuances of corporate culture—things that are hard to replicate in a purely academic environment.

Do you think unpaid internships still have a place in tech today? (Generalization)

The place of unpaid internships in tech is highly debated. While some argue they offer valuable experience for those unable to secure paid roles, many believe they create equity barriers and should largely be phased out in favor of paid opportunities that ensure fair compensation for work.

How can companies ensure interns get value—regardless of pay? (Generalization)

Companies can ensure value by providing a structured learning environment, assigning meaningful projects with real impact, offering dedicated mentorship, facilitating networking opportunities, and providing clear feedback and career guidance. The focus should be on skill development and experiential learning.

What’s the difference between a great internship and a waste of time? (Generalization)

A great internship offers tangible learning outcomes, exposure to industry practices, opportunities to contribute to real projects, and strong mentorship. A waste of time often involves menial tasks, lack of guidance, no clear learning objectives, and feeling like a burden rather than a contributing team member.

On this episode, we have Alfie Ordoña, Jayz Carrillo, Oscar Oganiza, and Ragde Falcis joining us to discuss "IT, IS, CS Grads: Do Schools and Grades Still Matter?" and What recruiters really look for (and what they ignore).

With bootcamps, certifications, and self-taught developers entering the field, the value of a traditional tech degree is being reexamined. In this episode, we explore how much your school background, course title, or grades still matter when applying for tech roles. Our guests include recruiters and hiring managers who’ll share what they really pay attention to—and what they often skip over.

In your hiring experience, how much weight do you place on degrees or GPA? (Generalization)

While a degree can show a foundational understanding, experience and practical skills often outweigh GPA. Many recruiters prioritize a candidate's ability to solve problems and contribute to a team over academic distinctions.

How do IT, IS, and CS graduates typically differ in skills or readiness? (Generalization)

CS graduates often have a stronger theoretical computer science background, while IT and IS graduates might be more oriented towards systems management or business applications. However, individual portfolio projects and internships often bridge these gaps, making readiness more about practical exposure.

What stands out more to you: a strong resume or a strong portfolio? (Generalization)

A strong portfolio almost always stands out more than just a resume. It provides concrete evidence of a candidate's skills, creativity, and problem-solving abilities, demonstrating what they can actually build and achieve.

Should schools update how they prepare students for today’s tech industry? (Generalization)

Absolutely. Many believe that academic curricula should incorporate more hands-on projects, industry-relevant tools, and soft skills like collaboration and communication to better prepare students for the dynamic tech landscape.

What's one thing recruiters often skip over on a resume or application? (Generalization)

Recruiters often gloss over generic objective statements or long lists of courses taken without corresponding project work. They're looking for impact, achievements, and specific skill sets relevant to the role, rather than general academic history.

On this episode, we have Julianne Cera, Jasmyn Japag, and Atcha Abe joining us to discuss "Beauty & Brains: IT na Influencer?" and can you code, create content, and command a following? Let’s talk image and impact.

This episode dives into the emerging world of the "tech influencer"—individuals who combine technical expertise with compelling content creation and a strong online presence. Our guests will discuss the skills required to excel in this space, the strategies for building an engaged audience, and the impact of personal branding in the tech industry. We'll explore how these individuals are shaping perceptions and driving conversations within the tech community.

What are the key skills and qualities that define a successful tech influencer? (Generalization)

Successful tech influencers possess a blend of technical proficiency and strong communication skills. Key qualities include a deep understanding of their niche within IT, the ability to simplify complex technical concepts, and a knack for engaging storytelling. They also need authenticity, credibility, consistency in content delivery, and an understanding of various social media platforms and their respective audiences. Adaptability to new technologies and trends is also crucial.

How can IT professionals effectively balance their technical work with the demands of content creation and audience engagement? (Generalization)

IT professionals can balance their technical work with content creation by employing effective time management and prioritization. This often involves setting dedicated times for content creation, batching similar tasks, and leveraging tools for scheduling and automation. Focusing on creating high-quality, impactful content over sheer volume can also help. Additionally, integrating content creation into their learning process by documenting their technical explorations can make the process more efficient and synergistic with their core IT work.

What are some of the unique opportunities and challenges faced by tech influencers in the industry? (Generalization)

Tech influencers have unique opportunities such as personal brand building, networking with industry leaders, and monetizing their expertise through sponsorships, courses, or consulting. They can also significantly influence tech adoption and education. However, challenges include the pressure to stay current with rapidly evolving technology, maintaining authenticity amidst commercial interests, dealing with online criticism, and managing potential conflicts of interest with their primary IT careers.

How is the rise of tech influencers changing the way technical information is disseminated and perceived? (Generalization)

The rise of tech influencers is significantly changing how technical information is disseminated and perceived by making it more accessible, engaging, and personalized. They often break down complex topics into digestible formats (e.g., videos, short posts), reaching broader audiences beyond traditional academic or industry channels. This shift fosters a more dynamic and interactive learning environment, though it also places a greater emphasis on critical evaluation of sources due to varying levels of expertise and potential biases.

On this episode, we have Maki Villano, Atcha Abe, John McLem, and Miguel Fermin joining us to discuss sustainable IT practices.

As the environmental impact of technology becomes increasingly critical, this episode explores the importance of sustainable IT practices. Our guests will discuss practical strategies for implementing eco-friendly solutions within IT departments and across organizations. We'll cover topics such as energy efficiency, responsible e-waste management, and the role of IT professionals in advocating for a more sustainable tech industry.

What are some of the most significant environmental concerns related to the IT industry? (Generalization)

The IT industry significantly contributes to environmental concerns through high energy consumption from data centers and devices, leading to substantial carbon emissions. The rapid obsolescence of technology also generates vast amounts of electronic waste (e-waste), which often contains hazardous materials that contaminate soil and water if not properly disposed of. Furthermore, the manufacturing of IT equipment requires significant natural resources and energy, adding to its ecological footprint.

What are some concrete steps that IT professionals and organizations can take to adopt more sustainable practices? (Generalization)

IT professionals and organizations can adopt more sustainable practices by prioritizing energy-efficient hardware and software, optimizing data center operations for reduced power consumption, and virtualizing servers to minimize physical infrastructure. Implementing robust e-waste management programs, including recycling and responsible disposal, is crucial. Additionally, advocating for and adopting cloud-based solutions can often lead to greater efficiency due to the shared infrastructure. Encouraging remote work where feasible also reduces commuting-related emissions.

How can IT departments measure and track their environmental impact? (Generalization)

IT departments can measure and track their environmental impact by conducting energy audits to quantify electricity consumption of servers, networks, and end-user devices. They can also track e-waste generated and the proportion recycled versus landfilled. Using Power Usage Effectiveness (PUE) for data centers provides a metric for energy efficiency. Lifecycle assessments of IT equipment, though complex, can offer a comprehensive view of environmental impact from production to disposal. Software tools for monitoring energy usage and carbon emissions also aid in tracking progress.

What are some emerging technologies or approaches that hold promise for a more sustainable future in IT? (Generalization)

Emerging technologies and approaches offering promise for a more sustainable IT future include advancements in renewable energy-powered data centers, which directly reduce reliance on fossil fuels. Edge computing, by processing data closer to the source, can reduce data transmission distances and associated energy use. AI and machine learning can optimize resource allocation and energy management in IT systems. Furthermore, circular economy principles for IT hardware, focusing on repair, reuse, and recycling, are gaining traction to minimize waste and resource depletion.

On this episode, we have Macky Matsunaga, Jon David Frilles, Nikz Celis Cruzalde, and Atcha Abe joining us to discuss turning setbacks into opportunities for growth in your IT career.

Failure is an inevitable part of any career journey, and the fast-paced world of IT is no exception. In this episode, our guests will share their experiences with navigating setbacks in their IT careers. They'll offer valuable insights into how to cope with mistakes, learn from them, and ultimately use those experiences as fuel for future growth and success in the tech industry.

What are some common types of failures or challenges that IT professionals might face? (Generalization)

IT professionals commonly face challenges such as project failures (missed deadlines, scope creep, budget overruns), technical bugs or system outages in live environments, and failed implementations of new technologies. They might also encounter career stagnation, difficulty adapting to new tools, or communication breakdowns within teams. Sometimes, personal failures like burnout or difficulty maintaining work-life balance also contribute to career setbacks, highlighting the diverse nature of challenges in the field.

What are healthy and productive ways to process and learn from professional setbacks? (Generalization)

Healthy ways to process setbacks include acknowledging and reflecting on the situation without dwelling on self-blame. It's crucial to perform a post-mortem analysis to identify root causes and specific areas for improvement, rather than just assigning blame. Seeking constructive feedback from peers or managers is invaluable. Focusing on actionable steps for future improvement, rather than passively accepting the failure, shifts the mindset from regret to growth. Taking a break to clear one's mind before diving back in is also a productive approach.

How can individuals cultivate resilience and a growth mindset in the face of failure? (Generalization)

Cultivating resilience and a growth mindset involves seeing failures not as endpoints, but as learning opportunities. Individuals can actively reframe setbacks as data points for improvement. Setting realistic expectations and understanding that mistakes are part of the learning process is key. Practicing self-compassion and avoiding harsh self-criticism helps maintain mental well-being. Regularly reflecting on past successes and focusing on continuous improvement reinforces the belief that abilities can be developed through dedication and hard work.

What role does mentorship or support systems play in helping IT professionals overcome career challenges? (Generalization)

Mentorship and strong support systems play a crucial role in helping IT professionals overcome career challenges. Mentors provide experienced guidance, offering objective perspectives and sharing their own lessons learned from similar situations. They can help navigate difficult decisions and identify growth paths. A robust peer support network offers a safe space for sharing experiences, gaining emotional support, and collaborative problem-solving. These systems provide encouragement and accountability, preventing isolation and fostering resilience during challenging periods in one's career.

On this episode, we have Maki Villano, Atcha Abe, Miguel Fermin, and Rodrick Alcantara joining us to discuss dealing with organizational change in IT and how to adapt and thrive when your company undergoes major shifts.

Organizational change is a constant in the dynamic field of IT. In this episode, our guests will share their expertise on navigating major shifts within tech companies, from adopting new technologies to restructuring teams. We'll explore strategies for adapting effectively, minimizing disruption, and even leveraging change as an opportunity for growth within your IT career.

What are some common organizational changes that IT professionals often experience? (Generalization)

IT professionals frequently experience a variety of organizational changes. These commonly include technology stack shifts (e.g., migrating to cloud, adopting new programming languages), restructuring of teams or departments (e.g., moving to agile methodologies, centralizing IT functions), and mergers or acquisitions. Other changes might involve new leadership, significant policy shifts, or a pivot in the company's core business strategy. These shifts often impact workflows, reporting structures, and required skill sets.

What are some effective strategies for communicating and managing change within IT teams? (Generalization)

Effective communication and management of change within IT teams rely on transparency and consistency. Leaders should clearly articulate the "why" behind the change, its anticipated benefits, and how it aligns with company goals. Providing frequent updates, even if there's nothing new, helps manage expectations and reduces anxiety. Engaging team members through two-way communication channels (e.g., Q&A sessions, feedback forums) allows concerns to be addressed. Empowering team leads to champion the change and provide localized support is also crucial.

How can IT professionals build resilience and adaptability in the face of organizational shifts? (Generalization)

IT professionals can build resilience and adaptability by cultivating a growth mindset and embracing continuous learning. Proactively upskilling in new technologies or methodologies ensures they remain relevant regardless of shifts. Developing strong networking skills within and outside the organization provides a support system and broader perspective. Focusing on their transferable skills rather than being tied to specific tools helps them pivot. Maintaining open communication with leaders and peers, and seeking to understand the rationale behind changes, also fosters adaptability.

What role does leadership play in ensuring a smooth and successful organizational change in IT? (Generalization)

Leadership plays an absolutely critical role in ensuring smooth and successful organizational change. Leaders must clearly define the vision and goals of the change, consistently communicating them across all levels. They need to model the desired behaviors and demonstrate commitment. Providing adequate resources, training, and support to their teams is essential to equip them for the transition. Effective leaders also listen to feedback, address concerns transparently, and celebrate milestones to maintain morale and reduce resistance during periods of significant organizational shift.

On this episode, we have Maki Villano, John McLem, Rodrick Alcantara, and Miguel Fermin joining us to discuss building legacy systems in the tech industry and how to make software that maximizes its lifespan.

Creating software that endures and provides long-term value is a significant achievement in the rapidly evolving tech landscape. In this episode, our guests, experienced in software architecture and development, will discuss the principles and practices behind building "legacy systems" in the positive sense. We'll explore considerations for scalability, maintainability, and future-proofing software to maximize its lifespan and impact.

What are the key architectural principles that contribute to the longevity and maintainability of a software system? (Generalization)

Key architectural principles for software longevity include modularity, breaking the system into independent, interchangeable components. Loose coupling ensures components have minimal dependencies, making changes easier. Adhering to the Single Responsibility Principle means each module has one clear purpose, simplifying understanding and modification. Prioritizing testability, scalability, and extensibility in design also allows the system to evolve and adapt over time without requiring complete overhauls.

What are the typical career paths and opportunities that a technical master's degree can open up for IT professionals? (Generalization)

A technical master's degree typically opens doors to specialized and advanced technical roles. This includes positions like Senior Software Engineer, Data Scientist, AI/ML Engineer, Cybersecurity Architect, or Research Scientist. It's ideal for those aiming to become subject matter experts or move into R&D. The degree provides deeper theoretical knowledge and advanced practical skills, enabling professionals to tackle complex technical challenges and potentially lead technical teams or projects within a specific domain.

How can development teams balance the need for innovation with the goal of creating a lasting system? (Generalization)

Balancing innovation with longevity requires a strategic approach. Teams can achieve this by iterating in short cycles, integrating new features while continuously refactoring and improving core architecture. Adopting microservices or modular designs allows for independent innovation within components without destabilizing the entire system. Implementing robust automated testing and maintaining clear coding standards ensures new features don't compromise the system's stability or future maintainability, allowing for controlled evolution.

What strategies can be implemented to ensure a software system remains adaptable to future technological changes? (Generalization)

Ensuring a software system remains adaptable involves several strategies. Designing with abstraction layers helps decouple the system from underlying technologies, making it easier to swap out components. Embracing open standards and widely adopted technologies reduces vendor lock-in and increases compatibility. Regularly conducting technology refreshes and architectural reviews helps identify outdated components. Finally, fostering a culture of continuous learning and refactoring within the development team is crucial for proactive adaptation to new technological shifts.

How does proper documentation and knowledge transfer contribute to the long-term success and maintainability of a software system? (Generalization)

Proper documentation and knowledge transfer are absolutely critical for a software system's long-term success and maintainability. Comprehensive documentation (code comments, design documents, API specifications) ensures that current and future teams understand the system's architecture, logic, and purpose. Effective knowledge transfer through training, peer programming, and dedicated handover sessions prevents the loss of institutional memory when team members leave.

On this episode, we have Rodrick Alcantara, Miguel Fermin, and Rafael Francis Quisumbing joining us to discuss "Retiring from an IT Career: What's Next?" and how to plan your post-career life with confidence.

After a dedicated career in the fast-paced world of IT, transitioning to retirement requires thoughtful planning. In this episode, our guests who have successfully navigated this transition will share their experiences and advice. We'll discuss financial considerations, exploring new passions, maintaining well-being, and finding fulfillment in life after an IT career.

What are the typical career paths and opportunities that a technical master's degree can open up for IT professionals? (Generalization)

A technical master's degree typically opens doors to specialized and advanced technical roles. This includes positions like Senior Software Engineer, Data Scientist, AI/ML Engineer, Cybersecurity Architect, or Research Scientist. It's ideal for those aiming to become subject matter experts or move into R&D. The degree provides deeper theoretical knowledge and advanced practical skills, enabling professionals to tackle complex technical challenges and potentially lead technical teams or projects within a specific domain.

What are some unique financial planning considerations for individuals retiring from the IT industry? (Generalization)

Individuals retiring from the IT industry often have unique financial planning considerations due to potentially higher earning trajectories and earlier retirement ages. This can mean navigating significant investment portfolios, optimizing stock options or restricted stock units, and planning for potentially longer retirement periods. Understanding tax implications of various tech-specific compensation structures and considering healthcare costs in early retirement are crucial. Diversifying investments beyond company stock and planning for potential second careers are also important.

How can retirees from the tech sector leverage their skills and experiences in new pursuits? (Generalization)

Retirees from the tech sector can leverage their vast skills in numerous ways. Their problem-solving, project management, and analytical abilities are highly transferable to consulting, volunteer work, or even starting new ventures. Many find fulfillment in mentoring the next generation of IT professionals or contributing to non-profits by helping them with their digital transformation.

What are some common challenges that IT professionals face when transitioning to retirement? (Generalization)

IT professionals often face unique challenges transitioning to retirement, beyond just financial planning. The fast-paced, constantly evolving nature of the industry can make it hard to disengage from work identity. Some may struggle with a loss of purpose or intellectual stimulation previously provided by complex technical problems. Maintaining social connections outside of a work environment and adapting to a less structured daily routine can also be difficult. Finding new, engaging pursuits that replace the intellectual rigor of an IT career is key to a fulfilling transition.

What advice do you have for those planning their retirement from an IT career to ensure a fulfilling next chapter? (Generalization)

For a fulfilling next chapter, start planning early, not just financially, but also considering your non-financial well-being. Explore hobbies and interests outside of tech well before retirement to cultivate new passions. Consider part-time work, consulting, or volunteer opportunities that leverage your IT skills without the full-time commitment. Maintain your professional network for social connection and potential future engagements. Finally, embrace the change, stay open to new learning, and define what fulfillment means to you in this new phase of life.