Adam Quattlebaum

What is the biggest challenge you had to overcome to get to where you are now professionally? How did you overcome it?

My biggest challenge to overcome was accepting low pay at times when I was overqualified for the role I was filling. These roles paid below average, but I gained a wealth of information from them that eventually led to better-paying roles. I was able to overcome this challenge by staying patient, being happy with what I had financially, learning as much as possible, and keeping my eye on my next move.

In layperson terms, what do you actually do at work?

Currently, I make sure the computer network (the brains) at my organization runs smoothly and safely.

Did anyone ever oppose your career plans when you were young or push you in a direction you did not want to go?

My grandparents practically raised me, but preached that to be happy in life you had to have a college degree and a career as a lawyer or doctor. I have found happiness without a college degree and I work in IT.

When you were a student, did you do anything outside of school to build skills or get knowledge that has helped your career?

When I was a student, I would install any computers or new technology for family members because they didn't know how to.

What is the most useful piece of career advice you got as a student, and who gave it to you?

A wealthy man once told me to have many streams of income coming in instead of just one. He also recommended working for myself instead of someone else.

What is it like when your job gets tough?

Luckily, my job only gets tough when a piece of computer network hardware fails. When that happens, I basically fix the issue as fast as possible while providing updates to management.

How did you start building your network?

I started building my network by simply being kind to everyone I met. Then, I built a profile on LinkedIn for those that I had yet to meet.

What is the one piece of career advice you wish someone gave you when you were younger?

I wish I knew that it's more profitable and satisfying to start your own business versus working for someone else.

How did you pick your career? Did you know all along?

I made a list of all the skills I had obtained during my time in the military and ran it through an online career assessment. I had no idea I'd land in IT when I did!

When did you get your first Big Break? How did you get it? How did it go?

My first big break led me to a company I've been with for 10 years so far. I had been laid off for a couple of months and desperate for anything to pay the bills. A recruiter found my resume online and randomly approached me about a temporary position that could lead to a permanent position with the biggest healthcare IT support company at the time.