6 answers
seif
Student
Jeddah, Makkah Province, Saudi Arabia
1
Question
Updated
5214 views
What motivates you to pursue both technology and music in your career?
Aspiring cybersecurity enthusiast and high school student passionate about technology and problem-solving. Alongside advancing my tech skills through online courses, I’m also a dedicated music producer and DJ, creating and performing to connect with audiences and bring energy to events. Experienced in supporting community projects and helping others with tech challenges. Eager to grow professionally in both customer support and creative fields. Always ready to learn, adapt, and contribute.
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6 answers
Wyatt .
Retired Corporate Executive
54
Answers
United States
Updated
Wyatt’s Answer
Hello Seif,
I can only speak to the technology side.
What motivated me to pursue a technology career wasn’t a single moment of inspiration, but rather a gradual realization shaped by a lifelong interest and hands-on experience. I was into computers at a young age, long before I entered the workforce and spent hours exploring how systems worked, tinkering with hardware, and teaching myself software fundamentals. That early curiosity never left me. I found myself naturally gravitating toward technology. I was usually the one looking for ways to improve workflows, eliminate inefficiencies, and solve operational problems using the tools available or finding new ones that could do the job better.
Over time, I noticed that technology, whether it was basic automation, early data tools, or emerging platforms, was almost always the key to unlocking better results. The more I engaged with these tools, the more I realized I had a genuine interest in how they worked and how they could be applied to real-world challenges. That curiosity led me to dig deeper, learn more, and eventually step fully into a technology career. As I moved deeper into my career, especially while working in a cutting-edge technology consulting firm for 25 years, that passion became more focused. I saw firsthand how emerging technologies like AI, machine learning, and cloud computing were already making a major impact behind the scenes long before the public caught on. While the media tends to spotlight these advancements only when they become mainstream or controversial, I was fortunate to be part of the teams implementing and leveraging them well in advance. That hands-on involvement, combined with a drive to solve real business challenges, reinforced my motivation. Technology has always been more than just a profession for me, it’s been a consistent thread throughout my life, blending curiosity, utility, and the excitement of staying ahead of the curve. It wasn’t about chasing trends, it was about seeing how powerful tech could be when applied with purpose.
I want to reemphasize this point again, becuase it’s important. As I further advanced in my career, I saw firsthand how innovation could reshape entire industries. AI, machine learning, cloud computing, virtualization, these weren’t just buzzwords; they were tools that delivered measurable value to businesses that were willing to embrace change. I found it fascinating that technologies the public would later react to with shock or awe had already been quietly transforming operations behind the scenes for years. Being part of that early wave, implementing, educating, and driving transformation was deeply rewarding. My motivation came from that intersection of hands-on problem-solving and forward-looking strategy, where technology isn’t just about gadgets or code, but about building smarter, more resilient systems for people and businesses alike.
Working in the technology field is never boring because it’s constantly evolving, new tools, platforms, and innovations emerge at a rapid pace, reshaping the landscape on a very constant basis. You’re never doing the same thing for long; just as you master one system or approach, something more advanced or efficient arrives, challenging you to learn, adapt, and rethink how things are done. Whether it’s artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, cloud computing, or automation, the pace of change keeps you on your toes. That continuous learning keeps your mind engaged and forces you to stay sharp, which is something few other industries demand in quite the same way.
Beyond the pace of innovation, what truly makes technology exciting is its real-world impact. You’re not just pushing code or deploying systems, you’re solving real problems, improving lives, and enabling businesses to operate smarter and faster and more efficiently. Every project presents a new challenge, a new opportunity to build something meaningful or fix something broken. The field attracts people who thrive on creativity, problem-solving, and innovation, which creates a dynamic and intellectually stimulating environment. In short, if you’re the kind of person who hates stagnation and loves progress, technology ensures you’re never stuck in place.
Best Wishes,
Wyatt
I can only speak to the technology side.
What motivated me to pursue a technology career wasn’t a single moment of inspiration, but rather a gradual realization shaped by a lifelong interest and hands-on experience. I was into computers at a young age, long before I entered the workforce and spent hours exploring how systems worked, tinkering with hardware, and teaching myself software fundamentals. That early curiosity never left me. I found myself naturally gravitating toward technology. I was usually the one looking for ways to improve workflows, eliminate inefficiencies, and solve operational problems using the tools available or finding new ones that could do the job better.
Over time, I noticed that technology, whether it was basic automation, early data tools, or emerging platforms, was almost always the key to unlocking better results. The more I engaged with these tools, the more I realized I had a genuine interest in how they worked and how they could be applied to real-world challenges. That curiosity led me to dig deeper, learn more, and eventually step fully into a technology career. As I moved deeper into my career, especially while working in a cutting-edge technology consulting firm for 25 years, that passion became more focused. I saw firsthand how emerging technologies like AI, machine learning, and cloud computing were already making a major impact behind the scenes long before the public caught on. While the media tends to spotlight these advancements only when they become mainstream or controversial, I was fortunate to be part of the teams implementing and leveraging them well in advance. That hands-on involvement, combined with a drive to solve real business challenges, reinforced my motivation. Technology has always been more than just a profession for me, it’s been a consistent thread throughout my life, blending curiosity, utility, and the excitement of staying ahead of the curve. It wasn’t about chasing trends, it was about seeing how powerful tech could be when applied with purpose.
I want to reemphasize this point again, becuase it’s important. As I further advanced in my career, I saw firsthand how innovation could reshape entire industries. AI, machine learning, cloud computing, virtualization, these weren’t just buzzwords; they were tools that delivered measurable value to businesses that were willing to embrace change. I found it fascinating that technologies the public would later react to with shock or awe had already been quietly transforming operations behind the scenes for years. Being part of that early wave, implementing, educating, and driving transformation was deeply rewarding. My motivation came from that intersection of hands-on problem-solving and forward-looking strategy, where technology isn’t just about gadgets or code, but about building smarter, more resilient systems for people and businesses alike.
Working in the technology field is never boring because it’s constantly evolving, new tools, platforms, and innovations emerge at a rapid pace, reshaping the landscape on a very constant basis. You’re never doing the same thing for long; just as you master one system or approach, something more advanced or efficient arrives, challenging you to learn, adapt, and rethink how things are done. Whether it’s artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, cloud computing, or automation, the pace of change keeps you on your toes. That continuous learning keeps your mind engaged and forces you to stay sharp, which is something few other industries demand in quite the same way.
Beyond the pace of innovation, what truly makes technology exciting is its real-world impact. You’re not just pushing code or deploying systems, you’re solving real problems, improving lives, and enabling businesses to operate smarter and faster and more efficiently. Every project presents a new challenge, a new opportunity to build something meaningful or fix something broken. The field attracts people who thrive on creativity, problem-solving, and innovation, which creates a dynamic and intellectually stimulating environment. In short, if you’re the kind of person who hates stagnation and loves progress, technology ensures you’re never stuck in place.
Best Wishes,
Wyatt
Kevin Dunn
Chief Information Security Officer
2
Answers
Duncanville, Texas
Updated
Kevin’s Answer
Hello Seif –
It’s great to see you express curiosity, initiative, and passion for several different areas of knowledge. Many times, the first thing I ask about a new team member is what outside activities they have. Being able to blend knowledge from several different areas is very important in creative problem solving.
Several years ago, I was in Austin, Tx watching a great band play at an evening event. Talking to the people I was with, I learned that every person on the stage had a “day job” in leadership position in the data center, telecommunications, or other technology business. They played at night for the enjoyment of music. Their love of music and sharing that passion with their audience made them even better leaders for their technology teams.
Cybersecurity and music share many traits – they are both exercises in finding patterns where none appear to exist and being able to identify the “wrong notes” in a complex and changing flow of sound or information.
From your statement, it is clear you embody a rare combination of qualities: technical curiosity, a creative spirit, a commitment to helping others, and an eagerness to learn. You are actively developing your tech skills through online courses, a crucial first step for any aspiring cybersecurity professional. Technology and cybersecurity fields change daily and require a lifelong - or at least career long - commitment to learning.
One of the most sought-after abilities in any technical field – including cybersecurity – is the ability to communicate technical topics clearly to non-technical audiences. Your experience as a music producer and DJ signifies not just technical acumen in creative tools, but also the ability to engage audiences and think outside the box. Additionally, your community support activities suggest that you value service, teamwork, and clear communication.
Your drive to learn, adapt, and grow your knowledge positions you as an invaluable asset to any organization or community you choose to serve. In cybersecurity, these attributes are more than just desirable, they are essential. The field demands problem-solvers who are comfortable navigating ambiguity, learning rapidly, and adapting to emerging threats. It also rewards those who can communicate complex issues clearly and bring fresh perspectives to persistent challenges.
Embrace your creative background as a strength. The industry needs innovative thinkers with the courage to experiment and empathy to support others. Keep learning, stay curious, and never underestimate the power of bringing your whole self—techie, artist, helper—into your professional journey.
It’s great to see you express curiosity, initiative, and passion for several different areas of knowledge. Many times, the first thing I ask about a new team member is what outside activities they have. Being able to blend knowledge from several different areas is very important in creative problem solving.
Several years ago, I was in Austin, Tx watching a great band play at an evening event. Talking to the people I was with, I learned that every person on the stage had a “day job” in leadership position in the data center, telecommunications, or other technology business. They played at night for the enjoyment of music. Their love of music and sharing that passion with their audience made them even better leaders for their technology teams.
Cybersecurity and music share many traits – they are both exercises in finding patterns where none appear to exist and being able to identify the “wrong notes” in a complex and changing flow of sound or information.
From your statement, it is clear you embody a rare combination of qualities: technical curiosity, a creative spirit, a commitment to helping others, and an eagerness to learn. You are actively developing your tech skills through online courses, a crucial first step for any aspiring cybersecurity professional. Technology and cybersecurity fields change daily and require a lifelong - or at least career long - commitment to learning.
One of the most sought-after abilities in any technical field – including cybersecurity – is the ability to communicate technical topics clearly to non-technical audiences. Your experience as a music producer and DJ signifies not just technical acumen in creative tools, but also the ability to engage audiences and think outside the box. Additionally, your community support activities suggest that you value service, teamwork, and clear communication.
Your drive to learn, adapt, and grow your knowledge positions you as an invaluable asset to any organization or community you choose to serve. In cybersecurity, these attributes are more than just desirable, they are essential. The field demands problem-solvers who are comfortable navigating ambiguity, learning rapidly, and adapting to emerging threats. It also rewards those who can communicate complex issues clearly and bring fresh perspectives to persistent challenges.
Embrace your creative background as a strength. The industry needs innovative thinkers with the courage to experiment and empathy to support others. Keep learning, stay curious, and never underestimate the power of bringing your whole self—techie, artist, helper—into your professional journey.
Doran Heck
Music Production
12
Answers
Asheville, North Carolina
Updated
Doran’s Answer
Hi Seif,
Pursuing music for me is easy. The technology part isn't as easy. I've been a saxophone player since the 1980's. What motivates me to pursue music is simply listening to music - all kinds!!! I listen to electronic, popular, classical, jazz, R&B, country and other styles. I listen to good and bad music so I know the components of what makes a good song and what doesn't. Sometimes when I'm listening to a song, I listen for the bass part or the percussion or the melody. After repeated listening I hear something different and new to my ears. After listening in this way I can form new ideas for song writing and or improvisation.
Technology remains a challenge because it is changing all the time. It is a necessary aspect because I have to know how to operate a DAW (Digital Audio Workstation) in order to make my song ideas become reality for others to hear. I have to know how to mix a song using computer technology in order to make the song sound good beyond the original recording and have all the parts sound good together. It is a challenge that I enjoy.
Your experience as a DJ helps you relate to people as well as learn about technology on the fly. I applaud your hobbies. As a DJ, you have to merge your music with what others want to hear and dance to. Keep up the good work and good luck forming your dreams into reality.
Pursuing music for me is easy. The technology part isn't as easy. I've been a saxophone player since the 1980's. What motivates me to pursue music is simply listening to music - all kinds!!! I listen to electronic, popular, classical, jazz, R&B, country and other styles. I listen to good and bad music so I know the components of what makes a good song and what doesn't. Sometimes when I'm listening to a song, I listen for the bass part or the percussion or the melody. After repeated listening I hear something different and new to my ears. After listening in this way I can form new ideas for song writing and or improvisation.
Technology remains a challenge because it is changing all the time. It is a necessary aspect because I have to know how to operate a DAW (Digital Audio Workstation) in order to make my song ideas become reality for others to hear. I have to know how to mix a song using computer technology in order to make the song sound good beyond the original recording and have all the parts sound good together. It is a challenge that I enjoy.
Your experience as a DJ helps you relate to people as well as learn about technology on the fly. I applaud your hobbies. As a DJ, you have to merge your music with what others want to hear and dance to. Keep up the good work and good luck forming your dreams into reality.
Jason B.
Tech Support
2
Answers
Wallkill, New York
Updated
Jason’s Answer
Personally I was always a fan of the Crime Dramas like Ellery Queen or Columbo, because there was the mystery presented from both perspectives - The seemingly impossible crime with the clues to solve it by the seeker (Queen), and the 'perfect crime' where we know the answer and see how the seeker finally worked it out (Columbo).
It's like playing chess vs. yourself - In any security setting you set up the best defense and then turn the table and see how you'd beat it, then turn the table and adjust a counter, then counter-counter, etc. It's that challenge that I find keeps me exploring the tech fields from a UI/CX perspective. Do I get engrossed and flow or rage-quit and move on? For my customers I want the former, and hackers the later.
For another part, remember that tools are supposed to solve a problem, from as simple as "This pan is hot" so we have oven mitts. "I can't turn this fixture" so i have a wench, up to using computers to resolve large-data computational formulas. Ask yourself, "Am I using this tool to its best ability?" "What other problems can this also solve?" "Do I need a better tool?".
It's like playing chess vs. yourself - In any security setting you set up the best defense and then turn the table and see how you'd beat it, then turn the table and adjust a counter, then counter-counter, etc. It's that challenge that I find keeps me exploring the tech fields from a UI/CX perspective. Do I get engrossed and flow or rage-quit and move on? For my customers I want the former, and hackers the later.
For another part, remember that tools are supposed to solve a problem, from as simple as "This pan is hot" so we have oven mitts. "I can't turn this fixture" so i have a wench, up to using computers to resolve large-data computational formulas. Ask yourself, "Am I using this tool to its best ability?" "What other problems can this also solve?" "Do I need a better tool?".
John Graham
Music Producer
82
Answers
Bremerton, Washington
Updated
John’s Answer
Hi Seif!
As an independent musician, producer, and audio engineer, I can tell you it's absolutely key to have the technical skills necessary to get your music done. On the technical side, I was always fascinated by computers and digital experiences. I had one of the first IBM PC Compatible computers - a Compaq Portable in 1983 and taught myself every Microsoft OS from DOS 1.0 to Windows 11, along with most of commercial productivity software along the way. My first album release was recorded on a BOSS 1180 CD 10-track digital recording machine, back before DAWs became common. After personal laptops became available and the price of media storage dropped dramatically, I experimented with several DAWs including Cakewalk Sonar (which came bundled with my first USB interface - Roland TriCapture), Audacity, BandLab, FL Studio, Mixcraft, Reaper, and ProTools.
On the music side - growing up, I studied classical piano for five years; popular organ, music theory, improvisation and arranging for three years, and was active in school orchestras and choirs. Later on I played in bands, performed in clubs, taught piano lessons, and planned to make music my career before being drafted into the military during the Vietnam War. I wound up staying in the Navy for a full career, and then got back into music full time which I've done ever since. I've released five albums (working on #6), two EPs and a number of original and cover singles over the years. Through all of that - it's been important to keep up with the analog to digital migration in both hardware and software - so proficiency with gear and software are important.
Getting back to your question - I think the main things to keep in mind are:
- Music Theory. If you understand basic music theory, you will create better mixes and transitions. Learning about scales, keys, and harmonies will help you identify which songs will work well together so you can create the best beats. It's also very helpful in songwriting and arranging.
- Rhythm. It's vital to understand rhythm and tempo for beatmatching. Knowing song structures—like intros, verses, choruses, and outros—will assist you in planning your sets and making smoother transitions.
- Equipment. Your equipment is your tool set. Being thoroughly fluent in each piece's capabilities and operation is a must. CDJ knowledge is essential for playing the music, while ability with mixing software to transition between tracks and also in production of your own beats and songs is also important.
- Mixing skills are also key. The more you practice, the more you’ll gain a better understanding of your equipment and how to get the best sound and transitions possible. Beatmatching the tempo of two different tracks so they can play harmoniously together is a key building block for DJs and takes a good amount of practice to master. Mixing music goes a step further by combining two songs to build a cohesive auditory experience. EQ of bass, mid, and high bands to make tracks blend more seamlessly can help create a more immersive experience for your audience.
- Genre knowledge. You may be working with all types of music from Regional or Traditional to Hip Hop, EDM, Pop, Country, R&B. Getting everything to flow and blend during a performance is an important skill to have.
- Samples and Effects. Using effects like reverb, delay, and filters can add depth to your mixes. Sampling pieces of other tracks or sounds into your set adds interest and excitement. But you have to use these like salt and pepper, sparingly to taste so it doesn't overtake the music itself.
- Advanced Techniques. Scratching and looping can really take your sets to the next level. They take time to master but they can really lift the energy of your songs on the floor, and give you space to get ready for the next track.
The only other thing I'll mention is that with experience comes improvement. The more gigs you do, the better you'll get and everything involved with your music and your gear.
Good luck with your journey - you're going to do great!
As an independent musician, producer, and audio engineer, I can tell you it's absolutely key to have the technical skills necessary to get your music done. On the technical side, I was always fascinated by computers and digital experiences. I had one of the first IBM PC Compatible computers - a Compaq Portable in 1983 and taught myself every Microsoft OS from DOS 1.0 to Windows 11, along with most of commercial productivity software along the way. My first album release was recorded on a BOSS 1180 CD 10-track digital recording machine, back before DAWs became common. After personal laptops became available and the price of media storage dropped dramatically, I experimented with several DAWs including Cakewalk Sonar (which came bundled with my first USB interface - Roland TriCapture), Audacity, BandLab, FL Studio, Mixcraft, Reaper, and ProTools.
On the music side - growing up, I studied classical piano for five years; popular organ, music theory, improvisation and arranging for three years, and was active in school orchestras and choirs. Later on I played in bands, performed in clubs, taught piano lessons, and planned to make music my career before being drafted into the military during the Vietnam War. I wound up staying in the Navy for a full career, and then got back into music full time which I've done ever since. I've released five albums (working on #6), two EPs and a number of original and cover singles over the years. Through all of that - it's been important to keep up with the analog to digital migration in both hardware and software - so proficiency with gear and software are important.
Getting back to your question - I think the main things to keep in mind are:
- Music Theory. If you understand basic music theory, you will create better mixes and transitions. Learning about scales, keys, and harmonies will help you identify which songs will work well together so you can create the best beats. It's also very helpful in songwriting and arranging.
- Rhythm. It's vital to understand rhythm and tempo for beatmatching. Knowing song structures—like intros, verses, choruses, and outros—will assist you in planning your sets and making smoother transitions.
- Equipment. Your equipment is your tool set. Being thoroughly fluent in each piece's capabilities and operation is a must. CDJ knowledge is essential for playing the music, while ability with mixing software to transition between tracks and also in production of your own beats and songs is also important.
- Mixing skills are also key. The more you practice, the more you’ll gain a better understanding of your equipment and how to get the best sound and transitions possible. Beatmatching the tempo of two different tracks so they can play harmoniously together is a key building block for DJs and takes a good amount of practice to master. Mixing music goes a step further by combining two songs to build a cohesive auditory experience. EQ of bass, mid, and high bands to make tracks blend more seamlessly can help create a more immersive experience for your audience.
- Genre knowledge. You may be working with all types of music from Regional or Traditional to Hip Hop, EDM, Pop, Country, R&B. Getting everything to flow and blend during a performance is an important skill to have.
- Samples and Effects. Using effects like reverb, delay, and filters can add depth to your mixes. Sampling pieces of other tracks or sounds into your set adds interest and excitement. But you have to use these like salt and pepper, sparingly to taste so it doesn't overtake the music itself.
- Advanced Techniques. Scratching and looping can really take your sets to the next level. They take time to master but they can really lift the energy of your songs on the floor, and give you space to get ready for the next track.
The only other thing I'll mention is that with experience comes improvement. The more gigs you do, the better you'll get and everything involved with your music and your gear.
Good luck with your journey - you're going to do great!
Cliff Beach
Music and marketing
10
Answers
Los Angeles, California
Updated
Cliff’s Answer
Thanks for your question—love hearing about your passion for both tech and music! I’ve always believed creativity and problem-solving go hand in hand. Whether I’m building systems in tech or crafting a song, both allow me to innovate, connect, and make an impact. Pursuing both keeps me balanced, inspired, and constantly growing. Keep exploring both worlds—you’re already on an amazing path.