Fostering Success - How Airess Leveraged Cloud Computing Resources to Conquer AWS!
Airess Rembert
Black Orlando Tech’s mission is to empower professionals to chase their career goals. Through targeted programming, passionate experts and a robust support system, we’re breaking barriers to provide participants with the resources to thrive in the tech industry. Airess Rembert leveraged the resources offered by Black Orlando Tech to enhance her skill set and propel her project forward. We follow her journey and her thoughts on the AWS Cloud Computing program.
Bio
Airess Rembert is a project professional, founder, and chief editor of The Nerd Bae lifestyle and tech blog. Her innovative spirit and fascination with software, design and developing technical solutions led her to the cloud computing cohort, facilitated by BOT co-founder Joshua Walker. Black Orlando Tech congratulates Airess on passing the AWS practitioner exam while sharing her experience and highlights with the cloud computing program.
General Experience
Tell me a little about yourself and your career?
I’m a project professional with a love for designing and developing technical solutions. I started my career in design and construction project management and discovered a deep interest in the software used to manage those projects. I eventually transitioned into doing more technical work with Smartsheet, designing, building and implementing solutions as a consultant. Recently added product consulting to my resume. I’m also the founder & chief editor of The Nerd Bae, a lifestyle and tech blog.
What made you decide to take the AWS certification?
I’m starting to really understand the impact of cloud computing in organizations. It just seemed like a logical next step for me to take in my tech career. So when I heard about the BOT cohort, I knew it was time to get it done.
What were your goals before starting the program?
My goals were and still are to build upon my role as a Solutions Architect by adding additional skills and platforms to my toolbelt.
How did you hear about the certification program?
It was announced during a BOT event that I attended.
How did you hear about Black Orlando Tech?
I’m pretty sure Mike Felix introduced me to the group some years ago.
Program Description: AWS Cloud Computing
The AWS Cloud Computing cohort guides and prepares professionals to take the AWS practitioners certification exam. The 8-week immersive journey tailors and structures the curriculum so you can get the most out of your time. Airess enrolled in the program in 2024 and discusses her experience in the learning process.
Learning Process
How would you describe the learning experience during the program?
The learning experience was cool, I really enjoyed the weekly sessions with the class. It’s always good to learn with others.
Were the course materials and instructors helpful and accessible?
100%
How did the hands-on projects or labs contribute to your understanding?
They contributed a good amount; but because cloud was completely new to me, I spent the majority of my time soaking in the reading material and really trying to understand the concepts.
Did the program support you in areas where you struggled?
Absolutely, and hearing questions from the others in the group helped me to better understand concepts in ways I hadn’t thought about before.
Comparative Insight
How does this program compare to other learning experiences you've had?
It felt good learning alongside people who I’ve attended the BOT events with, we’re kind of like a family, we’re all local to Orlando, so access to instructors and other students made it easier to learn.
Would you say the certification met or exceeded your expectations?
It exceeded my expectations; the support from the leaders as well as other students in the cohort made it well worth the time and effort.
Impact and Results
How has this certification impacted your career or skills?
In my current role, I get to work with different businesses who are looking for technical solutions to their business needs; the more technical knowledge I have, the better I can serve my customers. Adding these skills have definitely helped me level up and expand my skillset.
Have you landed a new job, promotion, or project as a result of completing the program?
Yes! I’m kicking off a new project in July to migrate my blog website to AWS Lightsail. I’ve already completed the business case and plan to finalize the migration plan and schedule by the end of June. Thanks to the program, I now have a much clearer understanding of how to leverage AWS for my web infrastructure. I also plan to document the entire project as part of my portfolio to help position myself for future roles that align more closely with my new skills.
What skills or tools do you now feel confident using that you didn’t before?
Today, I feel confident in my ability to set up a new instance and navigate the AWS console. More importantly, I now understand how to approach cloud-based solutions from an admin and project management perspective.
Advice to Others
What advice would you give to someone considering enrolling in this program?
I would advise them to keep up with the weekly sessions and homework assignments. Really dig into the reading material and connect with the other students.
Is there anything you wish you knew before starting?
Not really
Closing
What was your favorite aspect of the AWS program?
My favorite part was just the overall feeling of support from the leaders and group.
Would you recommend this certification to others? Why or why not?
100% yes, especially if you are new to cloud. It really does require you to expand your thinking, but once it clicks, it’s really rewarding to know that you’ve gained new skills that translate to many in-demand roles.
Can you sum up your experience in one sentence?
Well worth it, and I'm excited about taking the next step in getting the AWS solutions architect certification.
Congratulations Airess and thank you for taking the time to share your experience with the program!
Conclusion
Black Orlando Tech’s mission is to empower professionals entering or advancing in the tech field by providing relevant and impactful resources to the community. Through impactful programs like Python for beginners and AWS Cloud Computing, BOT is building a community of network of tech professionals, more adept to tackle the challenges and opportunities in the tech landscape. Ready to help inspire and grow the tech field? Join one of our cohorts, attend a networking event, or become a sponsor and give aspiring tech professionals the tools they need to succeed.
