2021|represents|a lot of things. Proof of resilience. A new beginning. A fresh start.  Small steps towards a return to normalcy. 2021 gives me hope in the future -a future that's connected, optimistic  and limitless. And for you, the community, it's a year of all new opportunities to expand and grow your skills, make automation real, and explore new possibilities with DevNet.

Here are five ways you can make 2021 your year with DevNet:

1. Complete your first automation project, and get to "Hello, World!"

If your business didn't have a digital footprint in 2020, it probably will in 2021. Seven in ten boards of directors have accelerated digital business initiatives in the wake of COVID-19 disruption according to Gartner. Automation helps businesses go digital faster, more securely and at scale. And for companies that are still looking to make that transition, it starts with one person getting to "Hello, World!" or completing their first automation project, writing that first line of code. If you need a place to get started, check out DevNet's Start Now page for learning resources and a path forward.

2. Start an automation and software practice within your organization

Remember back in October at DevNet Create how we told you that innovation at scale starts with you -with one person learning the skills to code, automate and develop solutions? 2021 is your year to make it real. First you get to "Hello, World!" Then you show a coworker what you've been working on, then a culture shift happens and you build an entire automation and software practice for your company. Did we mention it also leads to cost efficiencies and removes tedious tasks from your day-to-day work? If you're looking for a boost -a way to build an automation and software practice within your organization more quickly -our Cisco DevNet Automation Bootcamp is a great way to get your whole team on board.

3. Grow your knowledge and network by attending your first Cisco Live -virtually

What's better than getting to know new people, learning new things, and getting inspired? Now you can attend Cisco Live from anywhere in the world, no matter your location, new dates are from March 30 -April 1, 2021. No travel expenses, just learning and networking. Some sessions count towards your continuing education credits for recertification and we promise, you won't want to miss all the tech news, new developer tools and more that we have in store for you.

4. Become a cybersecurity evangelist

If you haven't read my blog on security amidst a global pandemic and remote work, it's a great way to learn the fundamentals that are essential to keeping your business (and yourself) secure. Cybersecurity threats are at an all-time high, and malicious cyber attackers are getting bold. Phishing, ransomware, malware and more -they're all being used explicitly and more pervasively across the expanded threat network that is remote work. If you're looking for a new career, cybersecurity is it in 2021. The deficit of people to fill cybersecurity jobs is massive and continues to grow. Our CyberOps Essentials webinar can help you get started if you're looking for an entry point into the field. Or if you're a developer that wants to automate security at scale in a role like DevSecOps Engineer, our CCNP Security and DevNet Specialist certification could be a lucrative path forward for you.

5. Explore new careers in network automation, security, software, and application development

With the rise of remote work, your career no longer hinges on where you live. In other words, you don't have to live in Silicon Valley to work in tech. You can work in tech from anywhere in the world. Developer roles in 2021 and beyond will be about network plus -automation, programmability, security and many other aspects to enable businesses to scale up effectively and efficiently. These skills are in high demand -as more businesses are operating remotely the security attack surface has increased, priming the need for automation to most effectively deploy the network and secure it at scale. 2021 is the year to bridge the gap to bring network and software skills together. You can do that with DevNet training and certification. And if you were hoping to join the Class of 2020, you still have time. Since DevNet certifications rolled out on February 24, 2020, we're giving you a full calendar year to become a DevNet Class of 2020 member, plus a special offer to save you time and money in the process.

2021 is a new year

You can make ityouryear. How you go forward is up to you -know that DevNet has resources and tools to help you accomplish your automation goals, advance your career and a whole community to support you in your journey. Where will you go in 2021?

We'd love to hear what you think. Ask a question or leave a comment below.
And stay connected with Cisco DevNet on social!

Twitter @CiscoDevNet | Facebook | LinkedIn

Visit the new Developer Video Channel