Experts weigh in: Why does "Back to Basics" matter for your career?

If you could go back to the beginning of your career, what would you do differently? It's a thought-provoking question that many seasoned professionals often reflect on. For those just starting out in the tech world-or those looking to refresh their knowledge-this question holds the key to building a strong career foundation.

This month, Cisco U. is embracing the theme of "Back to Basics" by focusing on essential training paths like the CCNA Learning Path. These resources are designed to help learners build the skills they need to succeed, whether they're entering the tech industry for the first time or strengthening their foundational knowledge.

In this blog, you'll hear from Cisco experts who share their insights into which learning paths they'd prioritize if they were starting their careers today-and why these foundational steps are so crucial.

Who are the Cisco experts?

To bring you the best advice, we've gathered insights from three experienced Subject Matter Experts (SMEs) at Cisco who have built successful careers in the tech industry.

Meet Kyle Winters

• Role: Technical Advocate, Cisco
• Background: Kyle has over a decade of experience spanning network security, business development, and technical marketing. He's earned multiple Cisco certifications and has been recognized with prestigious awards like the Cisco Live Distinguished Speaker Award.

Kyle's career has taken him from startups to enterprise roles, giving him a comprehensive view of the tech landscape.

Meet Francois Caen

• Role: Technical Product Manager, Learn with Cisco
• Background: With 20 plus years of network engineering experience, Francois is a published author and an expert in programmability and automation. He now focuses on creating cutting-edge training for Cisco customers and partners.

Francois has a passion for teaching and enjoys helping learners break down complex topics into manageable steps.

Meet Chuck Stickney

• Learning Engineering Leader, Cisco
• Background: Chuck has more than 20 years of experience, 18 at Cisco, in networking and business development.

With a college-aged child who's now considering the cybersecurity field as a career, Chuck has a personal interest in what newcomers should focus on.

What do Cisco experts recommend for starting a networking career?

Kyle's recommendations: Where to start with networking

• Key course:Network Fundamentals for Network Adjacent Engineers

Why it matters: This 14-hour learning path provides foundational knowledge of key concepts, protocols, management techniques, and security that underpin network systems. It's perfect for those with general IT skills looking to specialize in networking.

• Kyle's advice:"Start small, but stay consistent. Build a strong foundation, don't rush through material just to earn a cert, and always look for ways to apply what you're learning through labs, projects, or volunteer work. Even small wins stack up."
• Additional suggestion for beginners: Kyle recommends the Networking Basics course on Cisco Networking Academy for a more holistic introduction to networking concepts.

Francois's recommendation: Tackle subnetting first

• Key course: Introducing the TCP/IP Internet Layer, IPv4 Addressing, and Subnets, part of the Cisco U. CCNA Learning Path.

Why subnetting is important in networking: Subnetting is a foundational skill critical for any networking professional. Though Francois concedes it may not be the most exciting topic, it's essential for understanding IP addressing and network design.

• Francois's advice:"Eat the vegetables first, save the steak for later. Subnetting may not be fun, but it's absolutely necessary."
• Career insight: Francois encourages learners to pursue networking if they are naturally curious. "If you're the type of person who opened your toys with a screwdriver to see how they worked, networking will be a rewarding field. Curiosity is key to staying motivated in this ever-evolving industry."

Chuck's recommendation: Start with Cisco Certified Support Technician (CCST) content

• Key course: Networking Essentials (Cisco Networking Academy)

A solid understanding of network fundamentals and hands-on skills is essential, beginning with earning the CCST certification, then proceeding to earn the Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) certification.

• "CCNA has been the minimum baseline for decades," Chuck notes, "and we keep the content relevant to today. From there you can continue deeper into network infrastructure topics or if infrastructure is not your thing-branch out into related areas like automation and cyber security. We have (free) NetAcad content in those areas and also Associate training and certifications in those disciplines."
• Career insight: "Building a cyber or automation skillset on top of a strong network foundation will set you apart in your field!"

What do experts say about tech learning?

All three experts emphasize the importance of focusing on the fundamentals when starting your career. Here are the key takeaways from their insights:

1. Understand the basics first: Foundational knowledge of networking concepts like subnetting, protocols, and security is critical for long-term success. Start with CCST content, then continue into CCNA.
2. From the CCNA, continue into network infrastructure topics or branch out into automation or cybersecurity.
3. Be curious and adaptable: Networking is constantly evolving, and a curious mindset will help you stay engaged and motivated as you continue to learn.
4. Certifications open doors: While understanding the material is more important than rushing to earn certifications, having certifications like the CCNA can help you demonstrate your expertise and advance your career.

What final advice do the Cisco U. experts have?

To close, here's some parting wisdom from our SMEs:

• Kyle:"Don't just focus on earning certifications-focus on truly understanding the material. Employers value adaptability and the ability to learn over memorization."
• Francois:"Stay curious. Networking requires continuous learning, and your curiosity will keep you engaged and motivated as you grow in your career."
• Chuck: "The field is very wide-open now, with no one-size-fits-all; however, everything is built on the network."

By focusing on the right foundational skills, you'll set yourself up for long-term success in the tech industry.

Ready to begin your networking training?

Cisco U. is here to support you every step of the way. Explore all of our "Back to Basics" content today and start building the foundation for a successful career in networking.

• Start learning with Cisco U., leveraging tools like progress tracking and the Learning Path playlists that organize the content into easily navigable journeys.
• Don't miss upcoming webinars and events featuring our SMEs-your next learning milestone is just around the corner!
• Join the Cisco Learning Network community and get to know others like you plus experts like these two SMEs.

Go on. Take the first step toward achieving your career goals with Cisco U.

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