You’re more than your title

Many IT professionals define themselves by the tools and vendors they frequently use, such as "Splunk engineer" or "Microsoft admin," which can diminish their broader accomplishments and potential. While it's natural to take pride in specific skills, the value of an IT professional lies in their problem-solving abilities, adaptability, and continuous learning, rather than their expertise with a specific tool that may eventually become obsolete. The article advocates for a broader self-identification based on competencies and problem-solving abilities, which are crucial for long-term career growth and can help new entrants feel less intimidated by industry-specific labels. It emphasizes the importance of lifelong learning and adaptability in the tech industry, suggesting that professionals should focus on being dynamic and open to new ideas and tools, such as integrating monitoring and observability telemetry into their work. The author, Leon Adato, who has extensive experience in IT, encourages individuals to seek workplaces that recognize their full potential beyond a vendor-specific skill set and to engage in community efforts that lower barriers to entering tech careers.