[GLLUG] Career guidance request

[Richard Houser]

>
> I think most of us on this list actively look for ways to stay out of
> expensive suits if at all possible. :)
>

Some of us do much better than others in that respect.  If you attend the
meetings regularly, you'll get it...

One thing I wanted to mention to Stan is that his friend should probably
> try to consider something in I.T. that allows him to leverage what he
> already knows of the financial sector. Maybe information security or
> database administration.
>

Depending on which specific areas an individual worked with, insurance,
accounting, or other such fields might be a decent fit.  All such industries
are getting increasingly computerized, and there is always some crossover
both from and to the IT fields.

In my experience, people that work well in security positions have a
different way of looking at the world.  I wouldn't expect those same traits
to be all that prevalent in the financial sector, particularly because the
financial sector is known for insufficient security measures.

Anyway, I maintain that a solid understanding of basic Unix and networking
> principles will start any I.T. newbie off on the right foot. (Or at least,
> they'll find out whether it's their cup of tea or not.)


While I certainly agree with the background and the value of the skills
themselves, many others do not.  Unfortunately, those hiring are often among
the least well informed in such matters.  Depending on where one interviews,
mentioning those can even be a reason for not getting a job.  Of course,
that brings up the obvious question of whether or not such a company is
worth working for.  In either case, it's going to come down to a personal
decision of pursuing self-education for it's own value vs. the buzzwords
targeted for those doing the hiring.
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