Reload in 10: Navigating Change
The Art of Network Engineering
A podcast and blog dedicated to all things Network Engineering, and other related topics.
Change is a constant force in our lives, shaping our careers, our relationships, and even our perspectives. In this latest episode of The Art of Network Engineering, hosts Andy Lapteff ????? , William Collins , and Jeff Clark engage in an open, insightful discussion about the transitions they’ve faced—both personally and professionally. From career shifts to tech trends, and even the evolution of the podcast itself, this episode is a powerful exploration of what it means to embrace change.
Listen here:
A Year of Transition
The past year has been a whirlwind of change for Andy. As the sole remaining founding member of the podcast, he reflects on how The Art of Network Engineering has evolved. What started as a close-knit team of hosts has transformed, with members moving on to new ventures and fresh voices stepping in.
Andy candidly shares a pivotal moment of solitude—sitting at a bank, opening a business account for the podcast, and feeling the weight of going it alone. It’s an experience many can relate to: standing at the crossroads of uncertainty and deciding to push forward despite the unknown. Through resilience and support from the community, the show continues with renewed vision and direction.
Embracing Change in Careers
Change isn’t just happening in the podcast—it’s reshaping the field of network engineering itself. One of the biggest takeaways from this episode is how automation is becoming a non-negotiable skill. Whether integrating automation into network management or leveraging it for efficiency, the hosts stress the importance of starting small.
Jeff shares how he automated a simple, yet effective, task in his home—turning his firewall’s internet access policy for his teenagers on and off via his phone. This lighthearted but practical example underscores a fundamental point: automation doesn’t have to be complex to be powerful. If a process is repetitive, it’s a perfect candidate for automation.
Key Skills for Today’s Network Engineer
For those wondering what skills are essential for modern network engineers, the discussion provides some key insights:
领英推荐
The Human Side of Change
Beyond the technical aspects, the episode takes a deeply personal turn when Andy shares his experience of being laid off and the mental health struggles that followed. Facing self-doubt and questioning one’s worth are challenges many encounter during major career transitions. His story is a reminder that change—while daunting—can lead to something better.
After months of uncertainty, Andy found a new role that aligns with his passions more than any job he’s had before. His journey is a testament to the power of persistence, community, and self-belief.
Looking Ahead: The Future of the Podcast
As The Art of Network Engineering moves forward, the hosts are excited to explore new topics, including:
This episode encapsulates the heart of The Art of Network Engineering: real people navigating real challenges while sharing knowledge, building community, and supporting each other through the journey. Whether you’re just starting out or a seasoned professional, there’s something valuable in every conversation.
Join the Conversation
If you’re looking for a supportive community of like-minded professionals, join The Art of Network Engineering Discord server, where thousands of engineers share insights, troubleshoot issues, and cheer each other on.
Change is inevitable, but how we respond to it is what defines our journey. The message of this episode is clear: embrace change with curiosity and courage, seek out support when needed, and never underestimate the power of your community.
For more episodes and resources, visit The Art of Network Engineering or connect with us on social media @artofneteng.
What changes have shaped your career? Share your thoughts in the comments!