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Cisco announced the new version of the Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) last week. The first major release in six years. They promise that it is more than just another update and that it is a complete revamp of this entry-level exam. The exam is to go beyond memorization and test candidates ability to apply their knowledge in more scenario-based questions. Personally, I am glad to see this change and that they kept with the routing and switching fundamentals. Not loading it up with proprietary technologies.   In this episode, you will learn: How the CCNA will change The move from memorization to practical application Remains focused on routing and switching Security integrated into the questions Inclusion of AI Less automation and wireless Episode Overview: CCNA 2.0 will hit the street next year. It will shift away from the standard "stump the chump" multiple choice questions and include more scenario-based. It integrates security into the L2 and L3 questions and introduces AI. This is a welcomed and much needed change to the CCNA exam.  Key Takeaway: The CCNA remains the industry standard for entry-level network engineering The exam will challenge candidates to apply what they know The CCNA will produce stronger entry-level network engineers Network Engineer Career Accelerator Cohort (CAPE Framework) I am offering a Career Accelerator for Network Engineers. During this 12-week virtual cohort, we will define your career goals (Clarity), identify your current reality (Alignment), explore the options (Proximity), and develop a plan of action (Execution). If this is you, email me at [email protected] The Three Pillars of Network Engineering Download the Three Pillars of Network Engineering: A Framework to Move Your Career to the Next Level at colburncareer.com Schedule a Free Career Strategy Call Schedule a free career strategy call at https://calendly.com/jeff-colburncareer/30min Contact me Contact me at [email protected] About the Host Dr. Jeff Colburn is a network architect with 30+ years of experience and over a decade of mentoring network engineers. He helps engineers advance into senior and architect-level roles by focusing on three key areas: deep technical knowledge, design best practices, and technology selection rationale. His approach combines real-world experience with formal training in leadership and coaching, including a Master’s in Human Services Counseling (Executive Leadership) and certification as a Maxwell Leadership Team Coach. LinkedIn Profile: https://linkedin.com/in/jeffreyacolburn Cyber Job Hacks is the official podcast of Colburn Career Strategies LLC

AI is transforming networking in two completely different ways. The first is Networking for AI — building the ultra-high-performance infrastructure required to support GPU clusters, AI training environments, and massive AI data centers. The second is AI for Networking — using artificial intelligence, telemetry, automation, and AIOps platforms to operate networks more intelligently and efficiently. In this episode of Cyber Job Hacks, we explore both sides of the AI revolution and discuss what it means for the future of network engineering careers. In this episode, you will learn: Industry Direction Networking for AI AI for Networking InfiniBand vs Ethernet AIOps Network engineering career development Episode Overview: AI is a major disrupter in the industry. Networking vendors are restructuring their organizations to capture AI spend. AI has a role in two distinct areas; Networking for AI and AI for Networking. Building out the network infrastructure to support AI and the use of AI to support network operations. Today's network engineer must evolve their skill set to remain marketable in this rapidly changing industry.   Key Takeaway: AI is having a major impact on the networking industry. AI has taken over yet; there are plenty of opportunities in traditional networking. You can remain relevant by adapting your skill sets now for the future that is coming. Network Engineer Career Accelerator Cohort (CAPE Framework) I am offering a Career Accelerator for Network Engineers. During this 12-week virtual cohort, we will define your career goals (Clarity), identify your current reality (Alignment), explore the options (Proximity), and develop a plan of action (Execution). If this is you, email me at [email protected] The Three Pillars of Network Engineering Download the Three Pillars of Network Engineering: A Framework to Move Your Career to the Next Level at colburncareer.com Schedule a Free Career Strategy Call Schedule a free career strategy call at https://calendly.com/jeff-colburncareer/30min Contact me Contact me at [email protected] About the Host Dr. Jeff Colburn is a network architect with 30+ years of experience and over a decade of mentoring network engineers. He helps engineers advance into senior and architect-level roles by focusing on three key areas: deep technical knowledge, design best practices, and technology selection rationale. His approach combines real-world experience with formal training in leadership and coaching, including a Master’s in Human Services Counseling (Executive Leadership) and certification as a Maxwell Leadership Team Coach. LinkedIn Profile: https://linkedin.com/in/jeffreyacolburn Cyber Job Hacks is the official podcast of Colburn Career Strategies LLC

Many network engineers work hard—earning certifications, and learning new technologies—yet still feel like they’re not making meaningful progress. One of the biggest reasons is their certification path does not match their career path. In this episode, I share two important lessons I learned when deciding which certifications to pursue; pursue certifications that match your target role and pursue certifications that are industry recognized. If you’ve ever felt like you’re staying busy but not moving forward, this episode will help you step back, refocus, and move with purpose. In this episode, you will learn: Common mistakes when pursuing certifications How to identify certifications that match your target role The difference between a primary and specialization certification How to align your certification path with your career path Episode Overview: Certifications have their uses. However, only when they align with your career path. The certifications you pursue should help close the technical gap between where you are today and the role you want tomorrow. These certifications must have industry recognition within your target role.   Key Takeaway: Pursue only certifications that lead towards your target role. Pursue industry recognized certifications. Network Engineer Career Accelerator Cohort (CAPE Framework) I am offering a Career Accelerator for Network Engineers. During this 12-week virtual cohort, we will define your career goals (Clarity), identify your current reality (Alignment), explore the options (Proximity), and develop a plan of action (Execution). If this is you, email me at [email protected] The Three Pillars of Network Engineering Download the Three Pillars of Network Engineering: A Framework to Move Your Career to the Next Level at colburncareer.com Schedule a Free Career Strategy Call Schedule a free career strategy call at https://calendly.com/jeff-colburncareer/30min Contact me Contact me at [email protected] About the Host Dr. Jeff Colburn is a network architect with 30+ years of experience and over a decade of mentoring network engineers. He helps engineers advance into senior and architect-level roles by focusing on three key areas: deep technical knowledge, design best practices, and technology selection rationale. His approach combines real-world experience with formal training in leadership and coaching, including a Master’s in Human Services Counseling (Executive Leadership) and certification as a Maxwell Leadership Team Coach. LinkedIn Profile: https://linkedin.com/in/jeffreyacolburn Cyber Job Hacks is the official podcast of Colburn Career Strategies LLC

Many network engineers work hard—earning certifications, learning new technologies, and gaining experience—yet still feel like they’re not making meaningful progress. One of the biggest reasons is career drift. In this episode, we break down what career drift looks like in network engineering, why it happens, and how to avoid it by choosing a clear direction. You’ll learn how to think more intentionally about your career path so your effort actually leads to progress toward advanced roles. If you’ve ever felt like you’re staying busy but not moving forward, this episode will help you step back, refocus, and move with purpose. In this episode, you will learn: What career drift is and why it happens in network engineering How a lack of direction slows down career progression How to choose the right direction based on your strengths and goals Common mistakes that lead to drifting instead of progressing Episode Overview: It’s easy to fall into a pattern of learning broadly, taking on whatever work is available, and following opportunities as they come. Over time, this can lead to career drift—where you’re gaining experience, but not necessarily moving toward the roles you actually want. In this episode, we walk through how to step out of that pattern by defining a clear direction and aligning your effort with it. Instead of trying to do everything, you’ll learn how to focus on what actually matters for your long-term goals. Key Takeaway: You can work hard in the wrong direction and still fall behind. Clarity is what turns effort into progress. Network Engineer Career Accelerator Cohort (CAPE Framework) I am offering a Career Accelerator for Network Engineers. During this 12-week virtual cohort, we will define your career goals (Clarity), identify your current reality (Alignment), explore the options (Proximity), and develop a plan of action (Execution). If this is you, email me at [email protected] The Three Pillars of Network Engineering Download the Three Pillars of Network Engineering: A Framework to Move Your Career to the Next Level at colburncareer.com Schedule a Free Career Strategy Call Schedule a free career strategy call at https://calendly.com/jeff-colburncareer/30min Contact me Contact me at [email protected] About the Host Dr. Jeff Colburn is a network architect with 30+ years of experience and over a decade of mentoring network engineers. He helps engineers advance into senior and architect-level roles by focusing on three key areas: deep technical knowledge, design best practices, and technology selection rationale. His approach combines real-world experience with formal training in leadership and coaching, including a Master’s in Human Services Counseling (Executive Leadership) and certification as a Maxwell Leadership Team Coach. LinkedIn Profile: https://linkedin.com/in/jeffreyacolburn Cyber Job Hacks is the official podcast of Colburn Career Strategies LLC

Many network engineers say they want to become a network architect—but far fewer are clear on what that actually requires. In this episode, we define what “advanced network engineering roles” really look like and break down the shift from implementation-focused work to design and decision-making. If you’ve been gaining experience but aren’t sure what separates mid-level engineers from those moving into architect-level roles, this episode will help clarify the path. You’ll learn why technical knowledge alone isn’t enough, what skills actually matter at higher levels, and how to start thinking more like an architect when approaching network design and technology decisions. In this episode, you will learn: What advanced network engineering roles actually require The shift from configuration to design thinking The key differences between mid-level and architect-level engineers The three pillars of advanced roles: technical depth, design best practices, and technology selection Why exposure to real-world design decisions is critical for career growth Episode Overview: Many engineers assume that continued learning and experience will naturally lead to advancement. But without understanding what advanced roles demand, it’s easy to stay focused on implementation work and miss the skills that actually drive progression. In this episode, we break down what it takes to move into architect-level roles and how to begin aligning your learning and experience with those expectations. Key Takeaway: The difference between mid-level and advanced network engineers isn’t just more knowledge—it’s a shift in how you think, design, and make decisions. Network Engineer Career Accelerator Cohort (CAPE Framework) I am offering a Career Accelerator for Network Engineers. During this 12-week virtual cohort, we will define your career goals (Clarity), identify your current reality (Alignment), explore the options (Proximity), and develop a plan of action (Execution). If this is you, email me at [email protected] The Three Pillars of Network Engineering Download the Three Pillars of Network Engineering: A Framework to Move Your Career to the Next Level at colburncareer.com Schedule a Free Career Strategy Call Schedule a free career strategy call at https://calendly.com/jeff-colburncareer/30min Contact me Contact me at [email protected] About the Host Dr. Jeff Colburn is a network architect with 30+ years of experience and over a decade of mentoring network engineers. He helps engineers advance into senior and architect-level roles by focusing on three key areas: deep technical knowledge, design best practices, and technology selection rationale. His approach combines real-world experience with formal training in leadership and coaching, including a Master’s in Human Services Counseling (Executive Leadership) and certification as a Maxwell Leadership Team Coach. LinkedIn Profile: https://linkedin.com/in/jeffreyacolburn Cyber Job Hacks is the official podcast of Colburn Career Strategies LLC

Many network engineers are working hard, earning certifications, and gaining experience—yet progress toward advanced roles often feels slower than expected. In this episode, we break down why that happens and what actually drives career growth in network engineering. You’ll learn the difference between effort and strategy, why some engineers plateau, and how to start approaching your career with more structure and direction. We also introduce the CAPE Framework™—Clarity, Alignment, Proximity, and Execution—a practical system to help you move toward advanced network engineering roles with confidence. In this episode you will learn: Why Network Engineers get stuck in their careers The difference between effort and strategy in career growth Common mistakes that slow down progress What actually drives advancement in network engineering A simple gramework to help you move into advanced roles Many engineers assume that if they keep learning and gaining experience, advancement will naturally follow. But without a clear strategy, it’s easy to focus on the wrong things, miss key opportunities, and remain in roles that don’t lead to growth. In this episode, we walk through the underlying reasons why progress can feel slow—and introduce a structured approach to help you move forward with clarity and intention. The CAPE Framework This episode introduces the four-part framework used throughout this series: Clarity - Define the right direction based on your strengths and goals Alignment - Identify skills, experience, and positioning needed Proximity - Get closer to the people and opportunities that accelerate growth Execution - Take consistent and focused action Network Engineer Career Accelerator Cohort (CAPE Framework) I am offering a Career Accelerator for Network Engineers. During this 12-week virtual cohort, we will define your career goals (Clarity), identify your current reality (Alignment), explore the options (Proximity), and develop a plan of action (Execution). If this is you, email me at [email protected] The Three Pillars of Network Engineering Download the Three Pillars of Network Engineering: A Framework to Move Your Career to the Next Level at colburncareer.com Schedule a Free Career Strategy Call Schedule a free career strategy call at https://calendly.com/jeff-colburncareer/30min Contact me Contact me at [email protected] About the Host Dr. Jeff Colburn is a network architect with 30+ years of experience and over a decade of mentoring network engineers. He helps engineers advance into senior and architect-level roles by focusing on three key areas: deep technical knowledge, design best practices, and technology selection rationale. His approach combines real-world experience with formal training in leadership and coaching, including a Master’s in Human Services Counseling (Executive Leadership) and certification as a Maxwell Leadership Team Coach. LinkedIn Profile: https://linkedin.com/in/jeffreyacolburn Cyber Job Hacks is the official podcast of Colburn Career Strategies LLC

In this in-depth interview, Marc Colburn shares his rapid rise to a Senior Network Engineer, emphasizing the importance of curiosity, hands-on experience, and strategic learning. Discover practical tips for aspiring engineers to accelerate their careers and navigate industry shifts effectively. In this episode, we discuss: Career progression in networking Importance of core networking knowledge Impact of industry changes and remote work on learning Strategies for rapid skill development Mentorship and hands-on experience Network Engineer Career Accelerator Cohort I am offering a Career Accelerator for Network Engineers. During this 12-week virtual cohort, we will define your career goals, identify your current reality, explore the options, and develop a plan of action. If this is you, email me at [email protected] The Three Pillars of Network Engineering Download the Three Pillars of Network Engineering: A Framework to Move Your Career to the Next Level at colburncareer.com Schedule a Free Career Strategy Call Schedule a free career strategy call at https://calendly.com/jeff-colburncareer/30min Contact me Contact me at [email protected] About the Host Dr. Jeff Colburn is a network architect with 30+ years of experience and over a decade of mentoring network engineers. He helps engineers advance into senior and architect-level roles by focusing on three key areas: deep technical knowledge, design best practices, and technology selection rationale. His approach combines real-world experience with formal training in leadership and coaching, including a Master’s in Human Services Counseling (Executive Leadership) and certification as a Maxwell Leadership Team Coach. Cyber Job Hacks is the official podcast of Colburn Career Strategies LLC

So what is a design engineer? Isn’t knowing the technology enough? In this episode I explain what it takes to become a good design engineer and the approach we follow. If you are looking to move up to the next level, you want to listen to this episode. Download the Three Pillars of Network Engineering: A Framework to Move Your Career to the Next Level at colburncareer.com Schedule a free career strategy call at https://calendly.com/jeff-colburncareer/30min Contact me at [email protected] About the Host Dr. Jeff Colburn is a network architect with 30+ years of experience and over a decade of mentoring network engineers. He helps engineers advance into senior and architect-level roles by focusing on three key areas: deep technical knowledge, design best practices, and technology selection rationale. His approach combines real-world experience with formal training in leadership and coaching, including a Master’s in Human Services Counseling (Executive Leadership) and certification as a Maxwell Leadership Team Coach. Cyber Job Hacks is the official podcast of Colburn Career Strategies LLC

To become a solid network engineer or what I refer to as a next-level engineer, you need to have expert knowledge in the Three Pillars of Network Engineering - Deep Technical Knowledge, Design Best Practices, and Technology Selection Rationale.  In this episode, we explore what it means to have deep technical knowledge and how to develop it. This is the heart of a next-level engineer and the foundation from which everything else is built. If you are looking to become a great engineer, you want to listen to this episode. Download the Three Pillars of Network Engineering: A Framework to Move Your Career to the Next Level at colburncareer.com Schedule a free career strategy call at https://calendly.com/jeff-colburncareer/30min Dr. Jeff Colburn is a Senior Network Architect with 30-years of industry experience. He is a 20+ year CCIE who has spent the decade preparing his students to enter and grow in the IT industry. Contact me at [email protected] Cyber Job Hacks is the official podcast of Colburn Career Strategies LLC

I have been working as a network engineer/architect for over 30-years. More and more I am encountering network engineers that are lacking the three critical things that prevent them from becoming a top-level engineer. Three things that enabled me and others to grow to the top of the industry. - Deep Technology Knowledge - Best Design Practices - Reasons to Implement the Technology In this episode, I discuss the three things and how they are important to level up as an engineer. I share how the industry has changed and what is required today to develop these three things. In the coming episodes, we will discuss elements of these three things. Download the Three Pillars of Network Engineering: A Framework to Move Your Career to the Next Level at colburncareer.com Schedule a free career strategy call at https://calendly.com/jeff-colburncareer/30min Dr. Jeff Colburn is a Senior Network Architect with 30-years of industry experience. He is a 20+ year CCIE who has spent the decade preparing his students to enter and grow in the IT industry. Contact me at [email protected] Cyber Job Hacks is the official podcast of Colburn Career Strategies LLC

Are you getting the interviews but not the job? Are you tired of the rejections? Are you becoming frustrated and ready to quit? Don't do it. If you are determined to launch a career in the IT industry, you have to be persistent and smart about your approach. In this episode, I share how to continue to become the strongest entry-level candidate and how to use your past interviews to prepare for the next. Dr. Jeff Colburn is a Senior Network Architect with 30-years of industry experience. He is a 20-year CCIE who has spent the decade preparing his students to enter the IT industry with no previous experience.

Preparing for a certification exam? Not sure if you are ready? Don't want to waste the exam fee on a failed attempt?  In this episode, I share a couple of ways to measure your preparedness to pass the certification exam. It is the method that I have my students use with great success. If you want to go into the exam confident, listen to this episode. Are you interested in becoming one of Dr. Jeff's students? There is 1 slot available for the new virtual course. Receive live one-on-one instruction from Dr. Jeff, a 20-year CCIE and industry expert.  For more information, email [email protected] or schedule a session with Dr. Jeff to discuss your career objectives (see link below).  Cyber Job Hacks is the official podcast of Team Caveo Want to discuss if a cyber career is right for you? Want to know how best to get started? Schedule a one-on-one cyber career coaching session with Dr. Jeff Colburn at: https://coaching.cyberjobhacks.com Join our private Facebook group to receive access to free resources, industry news, invitations to member-only events, and exclusive offers. https://cyberjobhacks.com Or join our mailing list at https://teamcaveo.com/join

Are you looking to start a career as a network engineer? Want to ensure that you are the strongest entry-level candidate? With companies now using skill-based hiring, certifications will not do it alone. In this episode, I explain how to build the skills required to ace the technical interview and land the job. If you want to stand above the other candidates, you will want to listen to this episode. Are you interested in becoming one of Dr. Jeff's students? There is 1 slot available for the new virtual course. Receive live one-on-one instruction from Dr. Jeff, a 20-year CCIE and industry expert.  For more information, email [email protected] or schedule a session with Dr. Jeff to discuss your career objectives (see link below).  Cyber Job Hacks is the official podcast of Team Caveo Want to discuss if a cyber career is right for you? Want to know how best to get started? Schedule a one-on-one cyber career coaching session with Dr. Jeff Colburn at: https://coaching.cyberjobhacks.com Join our private Facebook group to receive access to free resources, industry news, invitations to member-only events, and exclusive offers. https://cyberjobhacks.com Or join our mailing list at https://teamcaveo.com/join

Are you interested in preparing for an IT certification exam? Are you not sure what to study? In this episode I share how I use the exam blueprint to develop a study plan. You will learn how to identify the exam topic, the study resources, and how to block time to properly prepare. This will get you organized and help structure your exam preparation. It is something that I and many of my students have used to successfully pass a certification exam. Are you interested in becoming one of Dr. Jeff's students? There are 3 slots available for the new virtual course. Receive live one-on-one instruction from Dr. Jeff, a 20-year CCIE and industry expert.  For more information, email [email protected] or schedule a session with Dr. Jeff to discuss your career objectives (see link below).  Cyber Job Hacks is the official podcast of Team Caveo Want to discuss if a cyber career is right for you? Want to know how best to get started? Schedule a one-on-one cyber career coaching session with Dr. Jeff Colburn at: https://coaching.cyberjobhacks.com Join our private Facebook group to receive access to free resources, industry news, invitations to member-only events, and exclusive offers. https://cyberjobhacks.com Or join our mailing list at https://teamcaveo.com/join

Are you wanting to launch an IT career in 2025? Are you not sure where to start? In this episode I provide my personal career roadmap if I was starting to pursue a career as a network engineer or a network engineer today. Based upon my 30 years of experience in the industry, I share a 3-track study program that will provide the foundational knowledge in networking, cyber security, and automation that will make you the strongest entry-level candidate and prep you for a career in this industry. Are you interested in becoming one of Dr. Jeff's students? There are 3 slots available for the new virtual course. Receive live one-on-one instruction from Dr. Jeff, a 20-year CCIE and industry expert.  For more information, email [email protected] or schedule a session with Dr. Jeff to discuss your career objectives (see link below).  Cyber Job Hacks is the official podcast of Team Caveo Want to discuss if a cyber career is right for you? Want to know how best to get started? Schedule a one-on-one cyber career coaching session with Dr. Jeff Colburn at: https://coaching.cyberjobhacks.com Join our private Facebook group to receive access to free resources, industry news, invitations to member-only events, and exclusive offers. https://cyberjobhacks.com Or join our mailing list at https://teamcaveo.com/join