From Athlete To Mac System Administrator

Welcome to another episode of Tech Woke, the podcast where we dive deep into the journeys of individuals navigating their unique career paths. Today, we’re excited to bring you the inspiring story of Bishop Freeman. From managing the largest body shop in Madison to transitioning into the IT and government space, Bishop's career journey is nothing short of remarkable. He started his tech adventure by skipping the A+ certification and diving headfirst into a Network+ course, followed by relentless studying for the Security+ certification. But even with these credentials, Bishop faced an uphill battle in job hunting, applying for countless positions before finally landing a role that would pave the way for his future.

We'll explore how Bishop's early struggles, background in sports, and interest in mechanical engineering all shaped his path. Hear about his experiences in the automotive industry, his challenges breaking into IT, and the determination it took to secure a job despite setbacks like being let go and navigating the uncertainties brought on by the Covid-19 pandemic. Plus, get insights into his academic journey, his initial dreams of becoming a fighter pilot, and the supportive network of friends that helped guide his career transition. Joining me today as we unpack Bishop's story—an inspiring narrative of resilience, determination, and the pursuit of success in the diverse world of IT. Stay tuned!

Sure, here's a comprehensive sequence of topics covered in the episode "From Athlete To Mac System Administrator" with sub-topic bullets below each primary topic:

### 1. Introduction to Bishop Freeman’s Certification Journey

- Skipping the A+ certification.

- Signing up for a $1,000 Network+ course.

- Completing an eight-week boot camp on Saturdays.

- Initial sluggish approach to studying for Security+ certification.

- Creating a study routine: waking up at 5 am, going to the gym.

- Passing the Security+ exam on first attempt in August.

### 2. Job Search Struggles and Realities

- Difficulty finding a job despite having Security+ certification.

- Applying for 30 jobs daily from August to November.

- Misconceptions about certifications guaranteeing job offers.

- Effort and determination needed to secure a job.

### 3. Academic and Early Career Background

- Academic journey over five years due to research and scholarships.

- Adding a secondary degree in integrated science and business.

- Transitioning into management in the automotive industry.

- Managing the largest body shop in Madison.

- Emphasis on projection, preparation, and business operations.

### 4. Living Situation and Supportive Environment

- Living with two friends, including a former college teammate.

- Supportive living environment aiding career transition.

### 5. IT and Government Space Experience

- 4-5 years of experience in IT and government sectors.

- Working with various operating systems including Macs, Linux, and Windows.

- Pursuing a flexible degree in cloud computer systems for career shift.

### 6. Background and Cultural Integration

- Growing up in Africa, predominantly speaking French.

- Moving to the US at 11 years old and adapting to a new culture.

- Integrating through sports like soccer, football, and track.

### 7. Introduction to Tech and Initial Programming Experience

- Connection with athletic background: Fred from Milwaukee.

- Fred’s influence in introducing Bishop to Code Academy.

- Bishop’s move to the DMV area in 2018.

- Advice on obtaining Security+ and Network+ certifications.

### 8. Employment Challenges and Resilience

- Being let go after company lost its biggest client.

- Eight months of help desk work before being let go.

- Forex trading and taking a break for travel.

- Securing a junior network admin position despite minimal knowledge.

- Challenges with job involving extensive travel.

### 9. Desperation and Breakthrough

- Struggling financially with only $1500 left.

- Applying for the job at Red Zone Technologies.

- Securing the job by impressing the manager with willingness to learn.

- Negotiating a salary and starting work in November 2019.

### 10. Impact of Covid-19 and Protests on Job Stability

- Covid-19 pandemic and its effects on the company.

- Protests leading to the burning down of their biggest client’s office in DC.

- Impact on business operations.

### 11. Early Interests in Engineering and Aviation

- Childhood curiosity and family expectations.

- Pursuing mechanical engineering in college.

- Involvement in football and academic scholarship.

- Five-year physics program with an engineering emphasis.

- Research on lithium niobates leading to business opportunities.

### 12. Business Ventures and Job Security Importance

- Initial business involvement in finance and income diversification.

- Exploring commercial use of crystals in aerospace and infrastructure.

- Importance of job security from medical and financial standpoints.

- Companies’ reluctance to invest in background checks without guarantees.

### 13. Transitional Jobs and Final Decision

- Numerous jobs involving extensive travel.

- Lack of fulfillment and interest in the traveling job.

- Brief stint as a network engineer and being fired due to poor performance.

- Receiving offers from a law firm and a government company.

- Choosing the government job for benefits like security clearance and health insurance.

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