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Let’s start by discussing your educational background!
I don’t have a “traditional degree.” I went to trade college for Audio Engineering and I have some unfinished semesters at city colleges. What changed my career trajectory was attending General Assembly’s Full Stack Developer Immersive Bootcamp.
Related: Thinking About a Career Transition? General Assembly’s 4 Immersive Tech Programs to Help You Pivot
I eventually pivoted into Product Management. While getting real-world experience at tech start-ups, I obtained industry certifications from Scrum Alliance and Product School.
I’d say the BrightTALK series and being part of the Pivotal Labs practices and culture made the biggest impact on my career. Keeping in touch with my mentors and staying active in the lean UX and agile communities also helped quite a bit.
What would you like to learn more about?
Self-care and preventing burnout. I want to learn more about taking better care of myself. Although I’m passionate about tech, it’s important to learn how to unplug and walk barefoot, lay on the grass, and look up at the sky. We spend way too much time in front of screens.
What led you to pursue a career in tech?
I was tired of living paycheck to paycheck and lacking a clear career path. Eventually, I learned about outcomes and had the opportunity to leverage technology to impact people’s lives.
Related: Expert Tips: How to Manage Your Finances While You Job Hunt
How has your skill set evolved over the course of your career?
I’m a lot more focused on understanding people’s motivations and pain points. I value problem-solving while leveraging my team’s expertise to help me determine how we can make a powerful impact.
What did you choose to specialize in?
Helping people navigate through ambiguity, or problem-solving by prioritizing ruthlessly. In short, I’m focused on being a champion for lean UX and agile methodologies.
Is your new role different from previous ones and what excites you about it?
Yes and no. I continue to work in a heavy compliance-driven environment. However, I do get to work with the private sector as opposed to only the public sector. I also have more opportunities to travel outside the US now.
I’m excited to work with Data Science and Artificial Intelligence in this role! I’m also looking forward to continuing to provide solutions for folks in the military through healthcare tech initiatives.
What was your job search experience like before you joined Hired?
It was brutal. There were no standards and I came across too many fake recruiters only seeking to get contact details. There was also a lot of ghosting!
Related: 9 Smart Tips for Jobseekers to Identify & Avoid Job Scams in 2023
What’s your best advice for job seekers registered on the Hired platform?
Put in the effort to fill out your profile. Include a recent photo and update your criteria often as potential employers focus on that. Also, make sure you reply ASAP when you get a message. It’s important to show you’re active on Hired.
Related: Want More Interviews and Better Matches? 5 Key Tips!
Any general advice you’d like to give other tech professionals?
I don’t want to sound cliché but don’t give up! Stay up-to-date and consistent in the community. Don’t make excuses as there are so many useful resources out there for tech jobseekers. If you put in time and effort, you will find the opportunity you’re seeking.
About Humana
Humana creates innovative solutions and resources that help people live their healthiest lives on their terms – when and where they need it. Founded in 1961, Humana has 10,000+ employees and is headquartered in Louisville.
Benefits
Health/dental/vision/life/disability insurance, 401K plan/matching, paid time off, tuition reimbursement, work from home flexibility, employee discount programs, and more.