Howdy, world!

I'm CJ [LinkedIn], a simple fella who enjoys technology and helping people. Today, I do that by supporting the development of certification exams for Amazon Web Services. With 15-plus years in the IT industry, I've worked at small and large companies, optimized workflows, built solutions, mentored up-and-coming talent, and helped senior leaders.

I've reached this point through God's grace, perseverance, luck, and a somewhat unhealthy tendency to blur the lines between work and play. I have experienced many failures and felt inadequate numerous times, and sometimes I still do. Now, I enjoy helping others see that it's okay to fail and to find growth in those moments.

I'm publishing content to keep growing and connecting with people because it's uncomfortable for me. I don't currently have a backlog of drafted articles, but here are a few areas I'm considering:

• Appreciating nature: Visiting U.S. National Parks, Iceland, and other travel adventures

• Upskilling: Connecting advanced technical concepts with individuals from non-technical backgrounds

• Building confidence: How to explore and build on Amazon Web Services

• Sharing knowledge: Discussing books I've read or am reading, both technical and non-technical

Do you have questions, want to chat, or think there's something I could write about? Please reach out on LinkedIn!

CJ

P.S. Here are some things that may be unique to me or could overlap with your experiences that we can talk about:

• I was raised in a mobile home in rural Kentucky by a single mother who is a disabled veteran.

• My first paid jobs included sewing sports uniforms, finishing concrete, and helping on nearby farms.

• I participated in competitive bowling in youth tournaments. To afford it, I worked at a bowling alley, which allowed me to practice for free.

• I considered becoming a music educator; the tuba was my instrument. My high school allowed me to self-instruct in programming while I repaired computers around the school so that I could compete in coding competitions. This experience led me to contemplate a future in technology.

• Calligraphy was a hobby in my early years. I enjoy handwriting, so I use a Kindle Scribe now.

• I struggled in college, which weighed on me for years. A supportive family took me in as their own, helping me grow immensely after college challenges.

• My first software development job was through a chain of referrals, where I learned on the job. While working in the tech department at Office Depot, someone appreciated how I helped them understand technical concepts and asked me to maintain their computers. Eventually, they referred me to a family friend who was starting a business.