Welcome back to Tech Woke where we explore the intersection of tech careers, personal development, and impactful strategies. In today's episode, Vinod Akunuri and Chris dive deep into the vital importance of tailoring individual learning paths in tech, whether in-person or online. Join us as Vinod shares his personal adversities with traditional and remote education ]emphasizing adaptability and accountability in one's career journey.

We'll explore the indispensable role of mentors, sponsors, and connectors, and how Vinod selectively chooses his mentors for maximum impact. Discover why specialization in tech and a clear business strategy are key, and how Vinod's startup, Jumpstart to Tech, is revolutionizing career guidance through personalized roadmap services.

Listen in as we unpack the significance of personal branding over traditional resumes, the value of networking, and leveraging LinkedIn. Reflecting on his own journey, Vinod reveals his thoughtful approach to professional and financial growth, and the pivotal moments that shaped his career.

00:00 Prince George's County upbringing; STEM focus.

03:48 Parents encouraged tech; safe zone for me.

06:47 Use degrees strategically with work experience.

11:20 Impactful leadership and education lead to success.

13:53 Have a plan and specific skills first.

16:52 Started a podcast, lacked action initially, brainstormed.

19:42 Tailored tech career paths through personalized assessment.

24:57 Mentors, sponsors, connectors: essential for career success.

27:20 Seek mentors with experience; offer value first.

31:47 Network at tech conferences via Eventbrite.

35:37 Effort essential: knowing tech goals improves position.

39:53 Tech career requires likability, personality, and showcasing skills.

42:59 Build Jumpstart to Tech, expand globally, revolutionize EdTech.

44:58 Showcase podcast; pursue clarity and impact in tech.

47:49 Tech Woke podcast: Subscribe, shop, improve daily.

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Welcome to another episode of the Tech Woke Podcast! In this episode, we sit down with Dr. Dannielle Eason to explore her inspiring journey into the cybersecurity field, specifically within governance, risk, and compliance (GRC). Dr. Eason shares valuable insights from her career path, along with advice for those looking to enter the tech industry. Tune in for an engaging conversation full of practical tips and inspiration!

00:00 Appearance affected impact on young black girls.

04:28 Capital University offered job guarantee, NASA partnership.

07:45 Networking is crucial; relationships influence opportunities.

10:53 Cybersecurity intertwines with business operations, offering perspective.

16:00 Conducted cloud review, obtained certification for assessment.

20:10 Technical knowledge necessity varies by job role.

21:19 Technical background key for success in GRC.

27:18 ATO is required for system approval process.

29:47 Proud black woman shining bright with perseverance.

32:24 Being authentic improved self-confidence and motivation.

37:29 Free cybersecurity mentorship and networking events offered.

40:33 Expanding, growing, uplifting community through events.

42:52 Tech Woke podcast closing; subscribe, share, explore.

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Welcome to another enlightening episode of Tech Woke! In today’s episode, we’re thrilled to have Gabrielle, who shares her inspiring journey from software engineer to product manager.

Gabrielle opens up about her transformative experience in the tech industry, offering valuable insights on how to navigate the transition from technical roles to product management. Discover practical tips, strategies for skill enhancement, and the mindset shifts necessary for a successful career pivot.

Whether you're looking to leverage your software engineering background or simply curious about the world of product management, this episode is packed with wisdom and motivation. Don't miss out on this opportunity to learn how to take your career to the next level!

Tune in and get ready to elevate your career path!

Timestamps:

00:00 Unaware coding skills on MySpace in youth.

05:37 Studied programming; excelled in web and mobile.

09:54 Challenges faced as a woman in tech industry.

13:29 Big name on resume mattered more than GPA.

16:25 Attend career fairs; numerous networking, recruitment opportunities.

18:47 Whiteboarding skills and verbal explanation are crucial.

22:46 Programming language knowledge eases learning new ones.

27:41 Networking at tech conferences; built Frozen-themed bot.

31:06 Degree not needed, but smoother path with one.

34:31 Found fulfillment as a Microsoft product manager.

36:44 Product manager oversees development and improvement process.

41:22 MVP is version 1; updates are versions.

44:26 Evolve products as technology changes and grows.

49:32 Felt underutilized, transitioned for growth and opportunity.

52:40 Consumer apps prioritize rapid improvements to maintain engagement.

55:31 Started creative agency St. Kerr for startups.

56:56 Wrap-up: Follow, comment, subscribe, newsletter, Patreon access.

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📋Need GRC coaching, consulting, and mock interviews, as well as digital products related to GRC and GovTech from me⬇️

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#softwareengineer #productmanager #techwoke