Exploring the Tech Terrain: Memories and Milestones Along the Way

My journey in the realm of IT has been nothing short of extraordinary, marked by countless experiences and cherished friendships that have enriched every step of the way. It all began with my entry into the workforce at Network Information Services, a modest yet vital player in the realm of hardware and network AMC services, primarily catering to the bustling hubs of Indore and Bhopal.

From those early days, my path in IT has been one of constant motion and evolution. Each opportunity I encountered led me to new horizons and fresh challenges, propelling me forward on a journey of professional growth and personal discovery. Whether it was troubleshooting network issues or delving into the intricacies of hardware maintenance, every role I undertook provided invaluable insights and lessons that would shape my career trajectory.

Chapter 1

After completing my commerce degree in Shillong, I made the bold decision to venture into the world of computer programming by enrolling in a course at NIIT. Moving from a commerce background to programming was not easy, but I took on the challenge with determination and grit. However, when my father's transfer to Mhow, near Indore, necessitated a change in location, I seized the opportunity to continue my studies at NIIT's canter in Indore. Despite the initial hurdles of adapting to a new field of study, I remained determined and committed to my goal. Eventually, I made the pivotal decision to shift my focus towards hardware and networking, embarking on a diploma course at Jetking. This transition not only tested my resilience but also reinforced my belief in the power of perseverance and adaptability in the face of challenges.

During my time in Bhopal, I absorbed a wealth of new knowledge that significantly enhanced my skills as a hardware and network engineer. Stationed at the British Library, I delved into numerous books and forged meaningful friendships. However, as time passed, I began to feel a sense of restlessness, craving fresh challenges and opportunities for growth in my role. Throughout my diploma program, I remained connected with a wide network of friends, nurturing these connections along the way. Then, one day, a call from my friend Dipak Marathe in Pune sparked a pivotal moment. He encouraged me to consider exploring Pune for additional career prospects. Sensing that this was the opportunity I had been waiting for, I eagerly embraced the idea and set my sights on Pune. After discussing my aspirations with my manager, I was ready to embark on this new chapter in Pune.

Chapter 2

Off to Pune I went! It was the middle of 2006 when I made the move, and life in this new city didn't come without its challenges. My primary reason for relocating was to seek out fresh job opportunities and confront new challenges head-on. With this goal in mind, my companions and I deliberated extensively on which professional courses to pursue—CCNA, System Administration, among others—hoping to attract the attention of IT companies in Pune. After much deliberation and exploration, we settled on the RHCE course.

I vividly recall the arduous hours spent immersed in learning at our institute in Shivajinagar. It was a time of intense focus and camaraderie as we delved into the intricacies of Red Hat Linux. Our cohort mainly comprised young engineers, much like ourselves, who had journeyed from outside Pune in search of employment opportunities. Given the high demand for Linux engineers at the time, our dedication to mastering this skill set was unwavering.

After 5-6 months of rigorous learning and navigating bachelor life in Pune, we successfully passed our RHCE exam. The sense of accomplishment was immense as we eagerly dove into the vast sea of the IT field, ready to take on whatever challenges lay ahead.

While undergoing the RHCE training, we had the opportunity to interact with seasoned engineers who were already employed and seeking to enhance their skills. Building a strong rapport with them, we engaged in insightful discussions about life within IT companies and gleaned valuable insights from their experiences. This exchange proved to be a rich learning experience for all involved.

In addition to these interactions, I fondly recall our rigorous practice sessions for the RHCE exams, which consumed our days as we strived to absorb new knowledge continuously. This period provided an ideal environment for us to connect, learn, and network, fostering personal and professional growth in equal measure.

Chapter 3

Upon achieving my RCHE certification, the natural progression was to secure a position in a reputable IT company and embark on my professional journey in earnest. Thus, I began diligently applying for roles in Pune, scouring IT companies in Hinjewadi, perusing job portals, consulting with agencies, and leveraging personal references. Through one such reference, I secured an interview opportunity with Symantec, which eventually led to my placement as a SQA engineer at Symantec, now Veritas.

Stepping into the role of a SQA engineer was a significant milestone for me, as it allowed me to delve deeper into the realm of software engineering. Reflecting on this transition, I realized the importance of seizing life's opportunities and making the most of them. Joining Veritas in February 14, 2007, marked the beginning of what would become a decade-long tenure filled with cherished memories. Notably, four of my peers from the RHCE course were also selected to join Veritas within a span of six months, further solidifying our bond.

During my time at Veritas, I not only honed my technical skills but also developed invaluable soft skills and leadership qualities, which continue to shape my IT journey to this day. One of the most significant lessons I learned during my tenure at Veritas was that success in one's professional journey is not only about technical proficiency but also about cultivating meaningful connections with others.

Despite the fulfilling experience at Veritas, after nearly a decade, I felt compelled to seek new challenges and broaden my horizons by transitioning to a service-oriented company. Drawing upon my professional network, comprised of friends working in esteemed companies such as Cognizant, TCS, and Wipro, I explored opportunities and ultimately accepted a management role at GS Lab in December 2016.

Chapter 4

After a decade-long tenure at Veritas, I transitioned to GS Lab, where I immediately noticed a distinct difference in the company's working style. While Veritas operated as a product-centric company, GS Lab was firmly rooted in the services sector. This disparity was evident in various aspects, including the working culture, the composition of the workforce, and the operational frameworks. Despite these disparities, I found myself drawn to the new challenges and opportunities for learning that GS Lab offered.

Since joining GS Lab, I've been actively contributing to the company's success, leveraging my skills and experience to drive positive outcomes. Over the years, I've forged meaningful connections and friendships with my colleagues, enriching my professional journey. My role at GS Lab has afforded me valuable experiences in leading engineering teams, managing deliveries, and gaining insights into business operations.

As I celebrate my eighth year at GS Lab | Gavs, I've witnessed numerous transformations within the company, ranging from enhancements in client management practices to the company's acquisition by Kedara. These changes have provided me with valuable insights and have contributed to my growth as a professional.

Reflecting on my journey thus far, I am reminded of the transient nature of life and careers. I've come to appreciate the importance of fostering strong relationships and networks, both personally and professionally. These connections not only shape our experiences but also play a pivotal role in defining who we are and who we become.