Before beginning my careerat Cisco, I was disabled for twenty years. During that time, my passionfor technology grew exponentially. Learning how to deploy applicationsand servers in my home lab was a big part of my daily routine.When I was immersed in a deployment or learning a new concept, I was free of physical limitations.  

Being able to discuss technology with like-minded individuals over the internet gave me a sense of normalcy. Back then, I often wondered if there was a place for me in theworkforceandfelt that I owed myself the opportunity to pursue a career in technology. 

After going back to collegeand getting my degree, entering the workforce did not go as I expected., butI was determined and did not allow a few bumps and bruises keep me from reaching my goal.  

Around this time,I joined LinkedInto do some research for fellow veterans. I also began writing short articles about good companies that offered training opportunities forveterans, andit was this research, and these articles, that led me to Cisco. 

Cisco has a program called the Veteran Talent Incubation Program(VTIP).The programis arigorous, self-paced programthat provides veterans the opportunityto join the Cisco ranks. I applied for the program.  

As part of the application process, we had to submit a 5-minute video answering three questions. After submitting my application, I was a little nervous. I honestly did not think that I had a shot but took the chance anyway. In December 2017, an email informed me that I passed round one andwas invited for an in-person interview.  

The thought of working for Cisco was exciting! 

The company flewme to their offices in Raleigh, North Carolina. The building where Iinterviewed had a data center on the first floor-I was mesmerized by all the little lightsand thesound of the running servers.

After returning home, Icould not stop talking about Cisco. Two weeks later, the acceptance email arrived in my inboxand itwas one of my happiest daysI can remember.  

Cisco assigned mentors to all of usin the program, and I was fortunately paired with John Maroney. The company also provided on-site mentorship andall ofthe training material. John helped me every step of the way and always made himself available to help me understand difficult concepts-something I would come to fin out is true of all Cisco employees. 

That summer, after completingallthe program requirements, I wasoffered a job at Cisco! 

You cannot imagine how proud I was of the accomplishment.Theprogram was not easy,but the challenge made the experience that much more rewarding. Now, almost three years later, I can say that Cisco has provided me with opportunities that I never couldhave imagined.   

I am surrounded by smart, talented individuals that love helping each other. My team is diverse; we come from different backgrounds, yet we are all united by our passion for technology. We are also united by our obsession withhelping our customers achieve theirdesired outcomes. Our customer's best interest is always at the forefront of our decisions. 

Many companies use the word "teamwork" as aslogan-allow me to tell you what teamwork means to me. Teamwork is knowing that my teammates have my back; knowingthat I can count on their support unconditionally. Teamwork is letting my coworkers know they can count on me, no matter what. That dynamic is evenmore important in a technology company.

Technology is changing rapidly; it is difficult, if not impossible, for one individual to keep up with all the changes. Being a part of a close-knit team allows me to play to my strengths, and as a unit, we eliminate knowledge gaps-we meet regularly to do knowledge transfers. 

This type of camaraderie can be found across the whole organization and the culture is second to none andgenuinely diverse. You can be whoever you want to be at Cisco!  

Do you know what your passion is?You'll probably find a few more at Cisco.I have explored many other opportunities beyond technology andam often involvedin innovation projects and stretch assignments that allow me to explore different career paths. Simply said, you decide what your career should look like. You decide what is important to you, and Cisco and the leadership here will help you to get there.  

And, ifyou do not know what you are passionate about, yet, that is quite alright.You can learn, explore, and discover your true passion at Cisco! 

Ready to join our passionate teams?Apply now. 

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