On March 15th,2024, the future tech wizards at Edison Academy's Cyber & IT program got a dose of real-world inspiration from Joseph Bangali, a successful AWS Cloud Engineer and entrepreneur. Bangali, who immigrated from Freetown, Sierra Leone, shared his journey and the key skills students need to land their dream jobs in the cloud.

Building a Cloud Castle: Essential Skills for AWS Engineers

Bangali's educational background is impressive. After graduating from Annandale High School, he went on to earn a BS in Business and an MBA from They Jack Welch Management Institute. But his true passion lies in technology. He shared the three core technical skills every aspiring cloud architect need:

1. Programming: Whether it's Python or another language, knowing how to write code and scripts is essential. The industry is heavily focused on automation, and these skills are key to building and managing cloud infrastructure efficiently.
2. Cloud Provider Knowledge: Familiarity with major cloud providers like Microsoft Azure, Google Cloud Platform, and of course, Amazon Web Services (AWS) is crucial. Understanding their strengths and functionalities allows you to design the most effective cloud solutions for specific needs.
3. Linux Operating System: Most cloud environments run on Linux, so mastering this operating system is a must or one like it. 

Beyond the Code: The Soft Skills of a Cloud Pro

Technical skills are just one piece of the puzzle. Bangali also highlighted the importance of non-technical skills for success in the tech industry:

1. Problem-Solving: The ability to analyze problems, identify root causes, and develop innovative solutions is highly valued.
2. Writing/Speaking Communication: Being able to clearly articulate technical concepts, both in writing and verbally, is essential for collaborating effectively with colleagues and clients.
3. Teamwork: The tech industry thrives on collaboration. Being a team player who is easy to work with is key to building strong working relationships.

Finding Your Spark: How to Launch Your Tech Career

For students wondering how to break into the exciting world of tech, Bangali offered this advice: identify what interests you and what keeps you curious. Pursue knowledge in those areas, and don't be afraid to experiment. 

Beyond the Cloud: Smart Tech Hire and Life Lessons

While AWS is a major player in Bangali's career, his entrepreneurial spirit extends beyond the cloud. He also owns Smart Tech Hire, an IT staffing firm, demonstrating the diverse opportunities available in the tech field.

Throughout his talk, Bangali emphasized valuable life lessons he's learned along the way. Here are some key takeaways students might have heard:

• Don't follow the crowd: Forge your own path and pursue your passions.
• Embrace change: The tech industry is constantly evolving. Be adaptable and open to new learning.
• Step outside your comfort zone: Growth happens outside your comfort zone. Don't be afraid to take calculated risks.
• Seek knowledge: Never stop learning and expanding your skillset.
• Choose your relationships wisely: Surround yourself with positive and supportive people.
• Take initiative: Don't wait for opportunities to come to you. Take charge and go after what you want.

Getting Certified: Your Key to the Cloud

For those aspiring to be AWS Cloud Engineers, Bangali spoke on the importance of earning at least one certification. Earning at least one AWS certification can significantly enhance your resume and open doors to new opportunities. But don't stop there! Emphasize practical experience – hands-on work is the best way to truly solidify your cloud engineering skills.

Joseph Bangali's visit to Edison Academy was an inspiring event for Cyber & IT students. His personal story and practical advice provided a roadmap for their future careers in the ever-evolving world of technology. By combining technical expertise with strong soft skills and a thirst for knowledge, our students are well on their way to becoming the next generation of Cyber and IT gurus.