From Admin Assistant to Sr. Director to Professor – How Karen Ahern Navigated Her Tech Career | Ep 016

In this episode of Career Downloads, host Manuel Martinez sits down with Karen Ahern, Professor and Networking Program Director at the College of Southern Nevada, who shares her inspiring journey through the technology industry. From her unexpected start as a computer lab assistant to becoming a Senior Director of Technology Services, and ultimately finding her calling in education, Karen's story demonstrates how being open to opportunities can lead to a fulfilling career in technology.

Guest: Karen Ahern
Current Role: Professor, Computing and Information Technology Department, College of Southern Nevada
Focus Areas: Networking, Cloud Systems Administration, Infrastructure, and Systems Administration

Episode Highlights:
- How a chance conversation led Karen into technology without any prior tech background
- The importance of being willing to take on tasks others avoid
- Transitioning from technical roles to leadership positions
- Managing imposter syndrome while advancing in career
- The value of emotional intelligence in technology careers
- Why lateral career moves can lead to unexpected growth
- Securing and managing National Science Foundation grants
- The transition from corporate IT to education

Key Insights:
- Finding and leveraging mentorship opportunities
- Building confidence through continuous learning
- Balancing technical expertise with people skills
- Managing teams and expectations in IT leadership
- Creating opportunities through networking
- The importance of being uncomfortable for growth

Career Advice Highlights:
- Be open to tasks others avoid - it can lead to specialization
- Don't let imposter syndrome hold you back from opportunities
- Sometimes a pay cut for the right opportunity can lead to greater rewards
- Network consistently, even when comfortable in your current role
- Consider lateral moves for skill development
- Be patient with yourself and others while learning

Resources Mentioned:
- CompTIA A+ Certification
- Management Information Systems degree programs
- Society of Information Managers
- National Science Foundation grants

Connect with Karen:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/karen-ahern-88805523/

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