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In this episode of The Route to Networking, Holly Staff is joined by Rekha Shenoy, CEO of BackBox, who shares her journey across networking, enterprise software and cybersecurity. From starting out as a computer engineer to working across product management, marketing, sales, finance and engineering, Rekha explores how understanding the fundamentals has shaped her career and why genuine technical expertise matters more than ever in the age of AI.

Rekha discusses how cloud, cybersecurity, automation and AI are transforming networking, why AI is unlikely to replace network engineers and how automation can instead help professionals move away from repetitive tasks and focus on higher-level decision-making. She also explores the growing importance of network automation, the evolving cybersecurity landscape and why professionals should build deep expertise in one or two areas before using AI to broaden their skills.

The episode closes with a quick-fire round covering the future of infrastructure, cybersecurity, emerging technology trends and the advice Rekha would give to students and young professionals entering the industry. Her message is simple: build strong foundations, stay curious, keep learning and don't let the fear of AI stop you from building your career.

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In this episode of The Route to Networking: Military Leavers Edition, host Jamie Maher, Head of AI Infrastructure at Hamilton Barnes, sits down with Chris Duffy, Managing Director and Chief AI Officer at Ignite AI Solutions, to explore his journey from the Royal Corps of Signals into technology, AI and entrepreneurship. After more than two decades in the military, Chris shares how his experience shaped his approach to leadership, adaptability and problem-solving, and how discovering AI changed the direction of his career.

Chris discusses the realities of transitioning from military life into the civilian world, including the challenge of moving from a structured environment into one where you have to create your own direction. He explores the importance of recognising transferable military skills, embracing unfamiliar environments and learning to take responsibility for creating opportunities.

The conversation also covers how ChatGPT sparked Chris's interest in AI, his experiences working in the civilian world and the journey that eventually led him to build his own AI business. Chris shares practical advice for service leavers, from starting their transition early and building a network before they need it, to exploring new industries and being open to creating a career that doesn't follow the obvious path.

The episode closes with a quick-fire round covering leadership, AI, entrepreneurship and military transition, including the advice Chris would give his younger self and what he is most proud of achieving since leaving the Army.

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In this episode of The Route to Networking, Till Heinimann is joined by Nicholas Desilas, who shares his journey from ten years in the military to building a career in technology sales. From facing rejection when trying to break into the industry to becoming a leader and mentor, Nicholas reflects on why drive, attitude and mindset can matter more than your background.

He explores how military experience can translate into a career in tech, the importance of investing in yourself and why building genuine relationships is key to becoming a trusted adviser. Nicholas also discusses the impact of AI and rapid technological change, how professionals can stay adaptable and why putting your hand up for challenges can accelerate your career.

The episode closes with a quick-fire round covering career advice, breaking into tech sales, Nicholas’s proudest career moment and what he would tell himself after leaving the military.

Want to stay up to date with new episodes? Follow our LinkedIn page for all the latest podcast updates!

Head to: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-route-to-networking-podcast/

Interested in following a similar career path? Why don’t you take a look at our jobs page, where you can find your next job opportunity?

Head to: www.hamilton-barnes.com/jobs/