A year ago today, I had my very first AWS class which would be the start of my journey in Cloud and DevOps.
At the time, I was working as a backend developer but I’d wanted to move to cloud somehow, even though I had little understanding of it. So when Gbemisola Ojo told me about Cloudboosta, I ofcourse jumped on the opportunity.
So here’s how it’s been the past year:
November 1 2021, we had the pilot cohort of Cloudboosta Academy and 3 nights a week, we learnt AWS for approximately 3 months while I continued my full-time backend role.
January 28 2021, I left my role as a backend engineer.
January 31, I began a full-time role with Cloudboosta as a cloud graduate trainee, as well as instructor/facilitator for the next cohort based on my backend experience. This allowed me learn and earn at the same time.
March 8, I passed my AWS Solutions Architect Associate certificate. This was a huge win for me!
Through February and March, I got to work on some interesting projects with Cloudboosta. I specifically remember Gbemisola making me work on a Terraform project when I had absolutely no idea what it was😅 but she kept saying I could do it, no matter how much I complained!
Little did I know that by April, I’d interview for my dream job and one main tool needed would be Terraform!
I happily aced all interview stages and began working May, 2022.
What a journey it’s been! I had absolutely no idea this time last year that I’d be here by now. I’m incredibly grateful and excited for the coming years.
Here’s what I’ve learnt so far:
Learning never ends
While I’m extremely proud of all I’ve accomplished so far, I’ve only merely deeped my toe in the ocean and I never want to get too ‘comfortable’ with where I am. There’s so much more out there, and you want to evolve along.
This could be working towards other certifications while on the job (I’m currently working towards a Security cert). It could also just simply being open-minded at your project, having meaningful conversations with co-workers or your manager, following relevant social media accounts, attending events etc.
Value people, and embrace networks
All of my accomplishments had someone’s help and support involved. Never under-estimate the power of relationships, old and new. While you certainly can’t “please” everyone, it’s important to simply respect people and be deliberate about maintaining relationships you consider valuable.
Finally…
I found these pictures a few months ago on twitter that perfectly describe my journey so far and have greatly inspired me. I hope they inspire you too.
So cheers to 1 year in Cloud and DevOps! I hope to come back yearly and talk more about this journey, and hopefully inspire more people to jump on the train!
Finally, if you’re interested in my tech journey before Cloud, I have a few posts here and here. Hope they encourage you!
tosinadedoyin 
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