Today, we'll take a closer look at Tihomir Ivanov’s incredible journey and how, despite having no prior experience in the IT world, he accomplished an astonishing career transformation. From mastering new technologies to working alongside developers, Tihomir's story is an inspiration for anyone looking to switch things up in their career.
How did you end up at Despark and what made you decide to join the team?
Tihomir: At that time I was looking for a new direction in my life in general, I was definitely searching for a new purpose and a place where I can learn and grow. During my research I stumbled upon the Despark website and was instantly captivated by the company's vision, meaningful projects, and impressive design. It was perfect timing as they had just posted a job opening for a System Administrator. Very quickly I decided to fill out the application form.
Since the very first conversation what attracted me to the company and made me eager to join them even more was the incredible atmosphere I experienced right from the beginning. It was a vibrant space filled with passionate individuals who exuded inspiration and dedication in their work. This atmosphere left a lasting impression on me and convinced me that Despark was the right place for me to be.
We can call it a coincidence that I started as System Administrator back then, because my previous experience was in a completely different field as a bartender on a cruise ship. But I've always had a genuine interest in the IT industry. Joining Despark provided me with the necessary guidance to nurture my passion and dive into the world of technology. It opened doors for me to explore various roles, ultimately leading me to discover my true passion for DevOps.
Tell us a bit more about the shift from being a System Administrator to becoming a DevOps Engineer, and when did this transformation started?
Tihomir: I've always been curious about how my colleagues do their work, so I would frequently bug them with questions, willing to learn as much as possible. But the real transformation started after my second year at the company. We faced a tough situation where the team needed assistance, and I stepped up to the challenge. Surprisingly, I resolved the problem very well, and that was when I truly discovered my passion for DevOps. From that point on, I started taking on various tasks from the team, and around a year later, I was officially promoted to the position of DevOps Engineer.
If you could have one superpower, what would it be?
Tihomir: You know, when you get caught up in tackling technical challenges, it's easy to get lost in your own world and forget that you can always ask for help and have open communication with your teammates. That's why, if I had superpowers, I would prioritize enhancing people's communication skills and promoting better understanding among individuals. As an IT professional, I truly understand the importance of effective communication in making our processes smooth and successful. I really believe that the power of teamwork is the cornerstone of a strong and thriving team.
What is it that you love the most about your job?
Tihomir: What I love the most about my job is the opportunity to solve complex problems and constantly learn and grow. The aspect that I truly appreciate is the diversity it brings. From creating infrastructures, handling setups and maintenance, to monitoring and managing pipelines, the ever-changing nature of the work keeps me engaged and prevents any chance of monotony. Being able to find innovative solutions and contribute to the success of our projects is incredibly rewarding, and I enjoy collaborating with my colleagues and being part of a supportive team. It's this combination of variety, continuous learning, and a supportive work environment that makes me love my job.
What's your secret to staying cool and collected under pressure?
Тihomir: When it comes to my work, I've learned to put a lot of focus on avoiding high-pressure situations and embracing a problem-solving mindset. I see every challenge as an exciting puzzle waiting to be solved. If things start to go off track, I take a step back, breath, and come back with a fresh perspective. It's all about staying cool and collected, keeping a calm approach to finding solutions and overcoming obstacles. That way, I can tackle anything that comes my way with confidence and clarity.
Your journey in the IT field is fascinating! We’re curious to know, when you're not busy conquering technical challenges, how do you like to spend your time outside of the office?
Tihomir: I love to spend time with my friends and go on spontaneous trips. Planning is not my thing. I prefer to let the good times roll and see where the journey takes me.
Lastly, if you could offer one piece of advice to someone who’s considering a career change in the DevOps field, what would it be?
Tihomir: I really believe in the incredible strength of determination and how crucial it is to never, ever give up. It's those difficult challenges we face that actually help us grow and make progress in life. So, instead of getting discouraged, let's see those obstacles as chances to become even better and keep moving ahead. Trust me, success is waiting for us right on the other side of those challenges!....
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