Network Engineering & Cybersecurity Careers – Cyber Job Hacks

Jeff Colburn | Network Engineering & Cybersecurity Career Coach

Learn how to build, grow, and advance your career in network engineering and cybersecurity—while developing a deep understanding of the technology that sets top engineers apart. Hosted by Jeff Colburn, a network engineer with 30+ years of experience and a CCIE for over 20 years, this podcast goes beyond surface-level advice to help you think like a network architect. Whether you're starting your first IT job, transitioning into cybersecurity, or leveling up your career, you'll learn how to: • Break into network engineering and cybersecurity • Build in-demand skills and certifications (CCNA, CCNP, CCIE, and more) • Develop a deep understanding of networking and security technologies • Learn best design practices used in real-world environments • Understand the “why” behind protocols, architectures, and decisions • Transition from engineer to network architect • Navigate job interviews, promotions, and career growth Each episode focuses on practical strategies, real-world design insights, and the mindset required to move beyond configuration into true technical mastery. If you’re serious about building a high-level career in networking or cybersecurity, this podcast will give you the clarity, depth, and direction you need to succeed.

  1. May 25

    S3 E10 - Is the New Cisco CCNA 2.0 More Than Just Another Exam Update

    Cisco announced the new version of the Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) last week. The first major release in six years. They promise that it is more than just another update and that it is a complete revamp of this entry-level exam. The exam is to go beyond memorization and test candidates ability to apply their knowledge in more scenario-based questions. Personally, I am glad to see this change and that they kept with the routing and switching fundamentals. Not loading it up with proprietary technologies.   In this episode, you will learn: How the CCNA will change The move from memorization to practical application Remains focused on routing and switching Security integrated into the questions Inclusion of AI Less automation and wireless Episode Overview: CCNA 2.0 will hit the street next year. It will shift away from the standard "stump the chump" multiple choice questions and include more scenario-based. It integrates security into the L2 and L3 questions and introduces AI. This is a welcomed and much needed change to the CCNA exam.  Key Takeaway: The CCNA remains the industry standard for entry-level network engineering The exam will challenge candidates to apply what they know The CCNA will produce stronger entry-level network engineers Network Engineer Career Accelerator Cohort (CAPE Framework) I am offering a Career Accelerator for Network Engineers. During this 12-week virtual cohort, we will define your career goals (Clarity), identify your current reality (Alignment), explore the options (Proximity), and develop a plan of action (Execution). If this is you, email me at cohort@colburncareer.com The Three Pillars of Network Engineering Download the Three Pillars of Network Engineering: A Framework to Move Your Career to the Next Level at colburncareer.com Schedule a Free Career Strategy Call Schedule a free career strategy call at https://calendly.com/jeff-colburncareer/30min Contact me Contact me at cyberjobhacks@colburncareer.com About the Host Dr. Jeff Colburn is a network architect with 30+ years of experience and over a decade of mentoring network engineers. He helps engineers advance into senior and architect-level roles by focusing on three key areas: deep technical knowledge, design best practices, and technology selection rationale. His approach combines real-world experience with formal training in leadership and coaching, including a Master’s in Human Services Counseling (Executive Leadership) and certification as a Maxwell Leadership Team Coach. LinkedIn Profile: https://linkedin.com/in/jeffreyacolburn Cyber Job Hacks is the official podcast of Colburn Career Strategies LLC

    9 min

  2. May 18

    S3 E9 - Networking for AI vs AI for Networking - Their Impact to the Future of Network Engineering

    AI is transforming networking in two completely different ways. The first is Networking for AI — building the ultra-high-performance infrastructure required to support GPU clusters, AI training environments, and massive AI data centers. The second is AI for Networking — using artificial intelligence, telemetry, automation, and AIOps platforms to operate networks more intelligently and efficiently. In this episode of Cyber Job Hacks, we explore both sides of the AI revolution and discuss what it means for the future of network engineering careers. In this episode, you will learn: Industry Direction Networking for AI AI for Networking InfiniBand vs Ethernet AIOps Network engineering career development Episode Overview: AI is a major disrupter in the industry. Networking vendors are restructuring their organizations to capture AI spend. AI has a role in two distinct areas; Networking for AI and AI for Networking. Building out the network infrastructure to support AI and the use of AI to support network operations. Today's network engineer must evolve their skill set to remain marketable in this rapidly changing industry.   Key Takeaway: AI is having a major impact on the networking industry. AI has taken over yet; there are plenty of opportunities in traditional networking. You can remain relevant by adapting your skill sets now for the future that is coming. Network Engineer Career Accelerator Cohort (CAPE Framework) I am offering a Career Accelerator for Network Engineers. During this 12-week virtual cohort, we will define your career goals (Clarity), identify your current reality (Alignment), explore the options (Proximity), and develop a plan of action (Execution). If this is you, email me at cohort@colburncareer.com The Three Pillars of Network Engineering Download the Three Pillars of Network Engineering: A Framework to Move Your Career to the Next Level at colburncareer.com Schedule a Free Career Strategy Call Schedule a free career strategy call at https://calendly.com/jeff-colburncareer/30min Contact me Contact me at cyberjobhacks@colburncareer.com About the Host Dr. Jeff Colburn is a network architect with 30+ years of experience and over a decade of mentoring network engineers. He helps engineers advance into senior and architect-level roles by focusing on three key areas: deep technical knowledge, design best practices, and technology selection rationale. His approach combines real-world experience with formal training in leadership and coaching, including a Master’s in Human Services Counseling (Executive Leadership) and certification as a Maxwell Leadership Team Coach. LinkedIn Profile: https://linkedin.com/in/jeffreyacolburn Cyber Job Hacks is the official podcast of Colburn Career Strategies LLC

    16 min

  3. May 11

    S3 E8 - Certify with Purpose - How to Align Your Certification Path with Your Career Path

    Many network engineers work hard—earning certifications, and learning new technologies—yet still feel like they’re not making meaningful progress. One of the biggest reasons is their certification path does not match their career path. In this episode, I share two important lessons I learned when deciding which certifications to pursue; pursue certifications that match your target role and pursue certifications that are industry recognized. If you’ve ever felt like you’re staying busy but not moving forward, this episode will help you step back, refocus, and move with purpose. In this episode, you will learn: Common mistakes when pursuing certifications How to identify certifications that match your target role The difference between a primary and specialization certification How to align your certification path with your career path Episode Overview: Certifications have their uses. However, only when they align with your career path. The certifications you pursue should help close the technical gap between where you are today and the role you want tomorrow. These certifications must have industry recognition within your target role.   Key Takeaway: Pursue only certifications that lead towards your target role. Pursue industry recognized certifications. Network Engineer Career Accelerator Cohort (CAPE Framework) I am offering a Career Accelerator for Network Engineers. During this 12-week virtual cohort, we will define your career goals (Clarity), identify your current reality (Alignment), explore the options (Proximity), and develop a plan of action (Execution). If this is you, email me at cohort@colburncareer.com The Three Pillars of Network Engineering Download the Three Pillars of Network Engineering: A Framework to Move Your Career to the Next Level at colburncareer.com Schedule a Free Career Strategy Call Schedule a free career strategy call at https://calendly.com/jeff-colburncareer/30min Contact me Contact me at cyberjobhacks@colburncareer.com About the Host Dr. Jeff Colburn is a network architect with 30+ years of experience and over a decade of mentoring network engineers. He helps engineers advance into senior and architect-level roles by focusing on three key areas: deep technical knowledge, design best practices, and technology selection rationale. His approach combines real-world experience with formal training in leadership and coaching, including a Master’s in Human Services Counseling (Executive Leadership) and certification as a Maxwell Leadership Team Coach. LinkedIn Profile: https://linkedin.com/in/jeffreyacolburn Cyber Job Hacks is the official podcast of Colburn Career Strategies LLC

    16 min

  4. May 4

    S3 E7 - How to Choose the Right Network Engineering Career Path (And Avoid the Drift)

    Many network engineers work hard—earning certifications, learning new technologies, and gaining experience—yet still feel like they’re not making meaningful progress. One of the biggest reasons is career drift. In this episode, we break down what career drift looks like in network engineering, why it happens, and how to avoid it by choosing a clear direction. You’ll learn how to think more intentionally about your career path so your effort actually leads to progress toward advanced roles. If you’ve ever felt like you’re staying busy but not moving forward, this episode will help you step back, refocus, and move with purpose. In this episode, you will learn: What career drift is and why it happens in network engineering How a lack of direction slows down career progression How to choose the right direction based on your strengths and goals Common mistakes that lead to drifting instead of progressing Episode Overview: It’s easy to fall into a pattern of learning broadly, taking on whatever work is available, and following opportunities as they come. Over time, this can lead to career drift—where you’re gaining experience, but not necessarily moving toward the roles you actually want. In this episode, we walk through how to step out of that pattern by defining a clear direction and aligning your effort with it. Instead of trying to do everything, you’ll learn how to focus on what actually matters for your long-term goals. Key Takeaway: You can work hard in the wrong direction and still fall behind. Clarity is what turns effort into progress. Network Engineer Career Accelerator Cohort (CAPE Framework) I am offering a Career Accelerator for Network Engineers. During this 12-week virtual cohort, we will define your career goals (Clarity), identify your current reality (Alignment), explore the options (Proximity), and develop a plan of action (Execution). If this is you, email me at cohort@colburncareer.com The Three Pillars of Network Engineering Download the Three Pillars of Network Engineering: A Framework to Move Your Career to the Next Level at colburncareer.com Schedule a Free Career Strategy Call Schedule a free career strategy call at https://calendly.com/jeff-colburncareer/30min Contact me Contact me at cyberjobhacks@colburncareer.com About the Host Dr. Jeff Colburn is a network architect with 30+ years of experience and over a decade of mentoring network engineers. He helps engineers advance into senior and architect-level roles by focusing on three key areas: deep technical knowledge, design best practices, and technology selection rationale. His approach combines real-world experience with formal training in leadership and coaching, including a Master’s in Human Services Counseling (Executive Leadership) and certification as a Maxwell Leadership Team Coach. LinkedIn Profile: https://linkedin.com/in/jeffreyacolburn Cyber Job Hacks is the official podcast of Colburn Career Strategies LLC

    18 min

  5. Apr 27

    S3 E6 - How to Become a Network Architect (What it Actually Takes)

    Many network engineers say they want to become a network architect—but far fewer are clear on what that actually requires. In this episode, we define what “advanced network engineering roles” really look like and break down the shift from implementation-focused work to design and decision-making. If you’ve been gaining experience but aren’t sure what separates mid-level engineers from those moving into architect-level roles, this episode will help clarify the path. You’ll learn why technical knowledge alone isn’t enough, what skills actually matter at higher levels, and how to start thinking more like an architect when approaching network design and technology decisions. In this episode, you will learn: What advanced network engineering roles actually require The shift from configuration to design thinking The key differences between mid-level and architect-level engineers The three pillars of advanced roles: technical depth, design best practices, and technology selection Why exposure to real-world design decisions is critical for career growth Episode Overview: Many engineers assume that continued learning and experience will naturally lead to advancement. But without understanding what advanced roles demand, it’s easy to stay focused on implementation work and miss the skills that actually drive progression. In this episode, we break down what it takes to move into architect-level roles and how to begin aligning your learning and experience with those expectations. Key Takeaway: The difference between mid-level and advanced network engineers isn’t just more knowledge—it’s a shift in how you think, design, and make decisions. Network Engineer Career Accelerator Cohort (CAPE Framework) I am offering a Career Accelerator for Network Engineers. During this 12-week virtual cohort, we will define your career goals (Clarity), identify your current reality (Alignment), explore the options (Proximity), and develop a plan of action (Execution). If this is you, email me at cohort@colburncareer.com The Three Pillars of Network Engineering Download the Three Pillars of Network Engineering: A Framework to Move Your Career to the Next Level at colburncareer.com Schedule a Free Career Strategy Call Schedule a free career strategy call at https://calendly.com/jeff-colburncareer/30min Contact me Contact me at cyberjobhacks@colburncareer.com About the Host Dr. Jeff Colburn is a network architect with 30+ years of experience and over a decade of mentoring network engineers. He helps engineers advance into senior and architect-level roles by focusing on three key areas: deep technical knowledge, design best practices, and technology selection rationale. His approach combines real-world experience with formal training in leadership and coaching, including a Master’s in Human Services Counseling (Executive Leadership) and certification as a Maxwell Leadership Team Coach. LinkedIn Profile: https://linkedin.com/in/jeffreyacolburn Cyber Job Hacks is the official podcast of Colburn Career Strategies LLC

    12 min

  6. Apr 20

    S3 E5 - Why Network Engineers Get Stuck in Their Careers (And How to Fix it)

    Many network engineers are working hard, earning certifications, and gaining experience—yet progress toward advanced roles often feels slower than expected. In this episode, we break down why that happens and what actually drives career growth in network engineering. You’ll learn the difference between effort and strategy, why some engineers plateau, and how to start approaching your career with more structure and direction. We also introduce the CAPE Framework™—Clarity, Alignment, Proximity, and Execution—a practical system to help you move toward advanced network engineering roles with confidence. In this episode you will learn: Why Network Engineers get stuck in their careers The difference between effort and strategy in career growth Common mistakes that slow down progress What actually drives advancement in network engineering A simple gramework to help you move into advanced roles Many engineers assume that if they keep learning and gaining experience, advancement will naturally follow. But without a clear strategy, it’s easy to focus on the wrong things, miss key opportunities, and remain in roles that don’t lead to growth. In this episode, we walk through the underlying reasons why progress can feel slow—and introduce a structured approach to help you move forward with clarity and intention. The CAPE Framework This episode introduces the four-part framework used throughout this series: Clarity - Define the right direction based on your strengths and goals Alignment - Identify skills, experience, and positioning needed Proximity - Get closer to the people and opportunities that accelerate growth Execution - Take consistent and focused action Network Engineer Career Accelerator Cohort (CAPE Framework) I am offering a Career Accelerator for Network Engineers. During this 12-week virtual cohort, we will define your career goals (Clarity), identify your current reality (Alignment), explore the options (Proximity), and develop a plan of action (Execution). If this is you, email me at cohort@colburncareer.com The Three Pillars of Network Engineering Download the Three Pillars of Network Engineering: A Framework to Move Your Career to the Next Level at colburncareer.com Schedule a Free Career Strategy Call Schedule a free career strategy call at https://calendly.com/jeff-colburncareer/30min Contact me Contact me at cyberjobhacks@colburncareer.com About the Host Dr. Jeff Colburn is a network architect with 30+ years of experience and over a decade of mentoring network engineers. He helps engineers advance into senior and architect-level roles by focusing on three key areas: deep technical knowledge, design best practices, and technology selection rationale. His approach combines real-world experience with formal training in leadership and coaching, including a Master’s in Human Services Counseling (Executive Leadership) and certification as a Maxwell Leadership Team Coach. LinkedIn Profile: https://linkedin.com/in/jeffreyacolburn Cyber Job Hacks is the official podcast of Colburn Career Strategies LLC

    26 min

  7. Apr 13

    S3 E4 - From Entry-Level to Senior Network Engineer - Secrets to Rapid Career Advancement

    In this in-depth interview, Marc Colburn shares his rapid rise to a Senior Network Engineer, emphasizing the importance of curiosity, hands-on experience, and strategic learning. Discover practical tips for aspiring engineers to accelerate their careers and navigate industry shifts effectively. In this episode, we discuss: Career progression in networking Importance of core networking knowledge Impact of industry changes and remote work on learning Strategies for rapid skill development Mentorship and hands-on experience Network Engineer Career Accelerator Cohort I am offering a Career Accelerator for Network Engineers. During this 12-week virtual cohort, we will define your career goals, identify your current reality, explore the options, and develop a plan of action. If this is you, email me at cohort@colburncareer.com The Three Pillars of Network Engineering Download the Three Pillars of Network Engineering: A Framework to Move Your Career to the Next Level at colburncareer.com Schedule a Free Career Strategy Call Schedule a free career strategy call at https://calendly.com/jeff-colburncareer/30min Contact me Contact me at cyberjobhacks@colburncareer.com About the Host Dr. Jeff Colburn is a network architect with 30+ years of experience and over a decade of mentoring network engineers. He helps engineers advance into senior and architect-level roles by focusing on three key areas: deep technical knowledge, design best practices, and technology selection rationale. His approach combines real-world experience with formal training in leadership and coaching, including a Master’s in Human Services Counseling (Executive Leadership) and certification as a Maxwell Leadership Team Coach. Cyber Job Hacks is the official podcast of Colburn Career Strategies LLC

    44 min

  8. Apr 6

    S3 E3 - Why Being Technical is not Enough - What Makes a Good Design Engineer

    So what is a design engineer? Isn’t knowing the technology enough? In this episode I explain what it takes to become a good design engineer and the approach we follow. If you are looking to move up to the next level, you want to listen to this episode. Download the Three Pillars of Network Engineering: A Framework to Move Your Career to the Next Level at colburncareer.com Schedule a free career strategy call at https://calendly.com/jeff-colburncareer/30min Contact me at cyberjobhacks@colburncareer.com About the Host Dr. Jeff Colburn is a network architect with 30+ years of experience and over a decade of mentoring network engineers. He helps engineers advance into senior and architect-level roles by focusing on three key areas: deep technical knowledge, design best practices, and technology selection rationale. His approach combines real-world experience with formal training in leadership and coaching, including a Master’s in Human Services Counseling (Executive Leadership) and certification as a Maxwell Leadership Team Coach. Cyber Job Hacks is the official podcast of Colburn Career Strategies LLC

    22 min
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About

Learn how to build, grow, and advance your career in network engineering and cybersecurity—while developing a deep understanding of the technology that sets top engineers apart. Hosted by Jeff Colburn, a network engineer with 30+ years of experience and a CCIE for over 20 years, this podcast goes beyond surface-level advice to help you think like a network architect. Whether you're starting your first IT job, transitioning into cybersecurity, or leveling up your career, you'll learn how to: • Break into network engineering and cybersecurity • Build in-demand skills and certifications (CCNA, CCNP, CCIE, and more) • Develop a deep understanding of networking and security technologies • Learn best design practices used in real-world environments • Understand the “why” behind protocols, architectures, and decisions • Transition from engineer to network architect • Navigate job interviews, promotions, and career growth Each episode focuses on practical strategies, real-world design insights, and the mindset required to move beyond configuration into true technical mastery. If you’re serious about building a high-level career in networking or cybersecurity, this podcast will give you the clarity, depth, and direction you need to succeed.

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