Just a little backstory about my tech journey — I got into tech back in 2022. Started out in help desk for about a year, then eventually found my way into a network position. Now I’m in my 3rd school year working in the field. No degree, no formal schooling — just self-taught until I got my first help desk opportunity, and things took off from there. I’ve picked up a few certs along the way too.

The other day, I was at a site working on the wireless network for a school, and one of the teachers asked if I went to school for what I do. When I told her I hadn’t and explained my story, she was honestly shocked that someone could be working on such critical systems without a formal degree. I just told her I never gave up — I took full advantage of my opportunities and studied hard to get where I am.

Curious to hear from others — how did you all start your tech journeys? Do you think school really matters in the long run, or is it more about getting into the right situation and making the most of it?