Skills_First

Mastering STEM Communication: Neil Thompson's Journey from Engineer to Coach

Unlock the secrets to mastering communication as a STEM professional by tuning into our conversation with Neil Thompson, the founder of Teach the Geek. Neil's journey from product development engineer to communication coach offers valuable insights that could transform your career. Discover how Neil turned early presentation struggles and a failed Facebook webinar into a thriving online course that helps technical professionals captivate non-technical audiences. Learn why effective communication is crucial for career advancement and how storytelling can play a pivotal role in leadership, especially within nonprofit organizations. We'll also delve into the motivations driving Neil and others to enhance communication skills in STEM fields. Hear about the influence of strict upbringings on career paths and inspiring the next generation, particularly marginalized groups, to consider STEM careers. Plus, get practical advice on spotting bots on LinkedIn and a special shout-out to Luis Martinez and Christiana Russell of We the Plug for their impactful contributions. For those interested in apprenticeship opportunities, Neil shares invaluable experiences and tips on skill-first training. This episode is packed with actionable insights and inspiration for anyone looking to elevate their presentation skills.

From Ministry to Code: William Kevin Roxton's Tech Transformation

What if you could completely reinvent your career and find your true calling in an entirely new field? Former pastor William Kevin Roxton did just that by transitioning into a successful career as a software engineer. Join us as William shares his remarkable story, highlighting the significant challenges he faced and the unwavering determination that fueled his journey from ministry to tech. Learn about the pivotal role his family played, the courage it took to start anew, and how he maintained his core values throughout this transformative process. Coding isn't just a technical skill; it's a gateway to personal and professional growth. William reveals how learning to code reignited his passion for lifelong learning and opened up countless networking opportunities. Discover the parallels between coding and non-technical hobbies like drumming, and gain insights into the importance of a growth mindset. William's story is a powerful testament to the idea that with grit and determination, anyone can master difficult skills and thrive in a new environment. Dedication, consistency, and a willingness to embrace challenges are essential for mastering any new skill. William's journey from novice to professional coder serves as an inspiring example. He also shares his aspirations of blending soft skills with technical expertise, recent learnings about the ServiceNow platform, and his efforts to support veterans transitioning to tech careers. We wrap up the episode with heartfelt gratitude for William's insights and a call to action for our audience to rethink hiring practices and share valuable content. Don't miss this episode filled with inspiration, practical advice, and a touch of humor.

Transforming Lives Through Code: Bernadette Bolaños' Inspiring Journey in Tech

Ever wondered how learning to code can transform your life and career? Join us for an inspiring chat with Bernadette Bolaños, a software apprentice at ServiceNow, as she shares her remarkable journey into the tech industry. Bernie discusses how coding has empowered her and highlights the critical need for representation in tech. She also provides a fascinating glimpse into her role on the UXRTB dev team, the thrill of her first corporate office visit, and how her previous work with survivors of sexual and domestic violence equipped her with invaluable skills for her new career. Her story is a powerful testament to the resilience and confidence required to combat challenges and imposter syndrome, making it a must-listen for anyone considering a career shift into tech. But that's not all—this episode also features the journey of another individual who found their passion for STEM through a pre-apprenticeship program, leading to full-time employment at ServiceNow. Their experience underscores the importance of diversity in tech and the unique perspectives that enrich customer-focused solutions. And for a delightful twist, stay tuned as Brittany shares her love for Nicaraguan cuisine, recommending her favorite snacks like gallo pinto and platanos, and the best spots in LA to savor these authentic flavors. This episode is a celebration of transformation, resilience, and the joy of discovering new passions.

Apprenticeships and Adaptability: Todd Basher's Unique Journey

Ever wondered how a high school speech teacher transforms into a tech industry leader? Meet Todd Basher, co-founder of New Rocket and our guest for this episode. Todd’s unique journey from humanities to tech illustrates the power of diverse backgrounds and self-taught skills. We delve into the expansive capabilities of ServiceNow, a low-code platform revolutionizing business functions from IT management to finance. Plus, we uncover why modern apprenticeships could be a game-changer in the consulting industry, bringing fresh perspectives and invaluable life experiences. More than just a career shift, this episode dives into the essence of lifelong learning and adaptability. Discover how apprentices can outshine traditional career paths through their passion and motivation. We also explore the science of timing through Dan Pink’s enlightening book "When," and highlight the remarkable determination of a colleague who embodies vision and grit. To top it all off, we wrap up with a lighthearted discussion about our favorite snacks—spoiler: there’s a lot of love for peanut M&Ms. Join us for an insightful and engaging conversation that promises to inspire and entertain!

From Smog Technician to Tech Consultant: Julian Gonzalez's Inspiring Journey

What if you could transform your career from a grueling, heat-soaked job to a thriving position in tech, all during a global pandemic? Julian Gonzalez did just that. Join us as we discuss Julian's inspiring journey from being a smog technician in Fresno, California, to becoming a Development Consultant within the ServiceNow ecosystem. Despite facing countless rejections, Julian's determination to complete his associate's degree and seize a rare software development apprenticeship opportunity showcases the power of perseverance, mentorship, and non-traditional career pathways.  Hear firsthand how Julian's experience in an accelerated coding program reshaped his problem-solving skills and productivity. He opens up about the financial and personal triumphs that came with his first paycheck from Uplift, and the pivotal role his mentor, Joshua Shapiro, played in his success. This episode also highlights the importance of skills-first hiring and innovative learning pathways in tech, alongside a fun reveal of Julian's favorite snack—Thai milk tea. Don't miss this opportunity to learn about the future of modern apprenticeships and how they can revolutionize lives and careers.