Posted on Mar 31, 2015
Transition Input: CCNA (Certified Cisco Networking Associate) vs Other tech certs
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So, I've already put a lot of time into the CCNA, I have netsim 10, the cisco iOS simulator, and access to some hands on with routers and switches (albeit they are older and beaten up). Realistically, I'm close to nailing this, maybe 3 to 4 months tops provided there are no hiccups. But I'm throwing this out there, because more is always better than less. CCNA is entry level, what I can I do once I get it that leads to more sustainable career growth? There's security, VOIP, Routing, etc. I would like some input, especially any tech geeks. Btw, I am open to entry level positions for more experience, I'm not picky about salary range, I just ask for marketable experience. In fact if I had a choice I would rather choose a job with good marketable experience and slightly lower pay than a higher paying job with less marketable experience.
Posted in these groups: 
Transition
IT SpecialistNetwork TechnicianNetwork Engineer
Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA)
Transition IT SpecialistNetwork TechnicianNetwork Engineer Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA)
Posted >1 y ago
Responses: 18
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This image is a great place to start. As you can see the CCNA is thankfully not entirely an entry level cert. With this certification though, you do have a strong basis for networking in a fair number of fields.
Security is one of the fastest growing fields within IT right now and you can make a quick transition with a CCNA Security and/or Security+ if that is the route you are going. If you need to build more experience, consider offering assistance to local small businesses either pro bono or at a reduced rate in order to gain experiences and work references.
What areas of the country are you currently shopping around in SPC Angel Guma ? That could affect what you want to learn as well.
Good luck!
Security is one of the fastest growing fields within IT right now and you can make a quick transition with a CCNA Security and/or Security+ if that is the route you are going. If you need to build more experience, consider offering assistance to local small businesses either pro bono or at a reduced rate in order to gain experiences and work references.
What areas of the country are you currently shopping around in SPC Angel Guma ? That could affect what you want to learn as well.
Good luck!
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SPC Angel Guma
Sir-
Right now, I'm in Denver. I'm not limited to Denver though. I can drive to Boulder or Colorado Springs if I needed too. Moving out of side (or even out of country if there's a contracting position) is an open possibility. I'm not tied down here.
Right now, I'm in Denver. I'm not limited to Denver though. I can drive to Boulder or Colorado Springs if I needed too. Moving out of side (or even out of country if there's a contracting position) is an open possibility. I'm not tied down here.
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CPT Zachary Brooks
Big areas of growth include California and DC (which are expensive to live in) and in Research Triangle Park in North Carolina (Raleigh/Durham). It is the third largest tech area and is not overly expensive to live here.
Might be worthwhile to reach out to some contracting firms in the larger cities as you have more opportunities in those areas.
SPC Angel Guma
Might be worthwhile to reach out to some contracting firms in the larger cities as you have more opportunities in those areas.
SPC Angel Guma
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SFC (Join to see)
Also consider looking for jobs with the VA's OI&T branch through USAjobs.gov. We have VA hospitals everywhere and all of them gave IT departments. Having a CCNA, Net+, Sec+, and A+ is what helped me get hired.
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SSG Daniel Castillo
RTP is an awesome place to work. I got hired on with Cisco here following my ETS. CCNA is a great place to start. Any of the Cisco specializations will give you a huge boost (I guess I am a little biased) Other than that, if you are going to stay in the Route/Switch arena, look into Juniper and other big network names.
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SPC Angel Guma, good for you taking these courses to make yourself more marketable. Have you checked out the RP career corner? https://www.rallypoint.com/careers/civilian
We have over 10,000 jobs many of which would be great fits for the courses that you are taking, for example, if you type "cisco" in for a keyword search jobs that are looking for people who are cisco certified, etc. You can search by location, job type, full time/ part time and many other things to drill down and find the best jobs for you.
We have over 10,000 jobs many of which would be great fits for the courses that you are taking, for example, if you type "cisco" in for a keyword search jobs that are looking for people who are cisco certified, etc. You can search by location, job type, full time/ part time and many other things to drill down and find the best jobs for you.
RallyPoint | The Military's Professional Network
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Elizabeth Malkin
Hi Angel, glad that it is helpful! Let me know if there are other ways that I can help. Feel free to PM if you'd like.
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SPC Joseph Fisher
I got out in 2009 and have maintain and added several certifications to better myself.
Here is a few of my certs:
A+, N+, Security+, CCNA R/S, CCNA Security, CCNP Voice, and CCNP R/S
Telcoms are always looking for talented IT techs.
Here is a few of my certs:
A+, N+, Security+, CCNA R/S, CCNA Security, CCNP Voice, and CCNP R/S
Telcoms are always looking for talented IT techs.
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OK, I'm not a tech geek. At least not in the industry sense; however, I will say your approach is admirable. Seeking experience and looking at the long term rather than attempting to make your millions immediately is a smart way of doing business. I will leave the advice on what experience you should obtain to those with the knowledge base. Good luck in your adventure and I believe you will go far.
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