From the Xchange Apprentice Program to an SDI full-time employee
Meet Jose Amezquita, a shining example of growth and opportunity at SDI Presence. Starting as a participant in Xchange Chicago's apprenticeship program, José’s journey has been nothing short of inspiring. From earning certifications to excelling in hands-on fieldwork, his dedication and passion for IT have paved the way for his current role as a Desktop Technician on SDI’s internal IT team. Let’s explore Jose’s story and see how he’s transforming opportunities into a promising career.
Can you share your journey from Xchange Chicago’s apprenticeship program to joining SDI’s internal IT team?
My journey began in August 2024 when I joined one of Xchange’s Network technician cohorts. The 8-week boot camp-style training program required me to pass two exams and obtain two certifications (Testout PC Pro and Testout Network Pro). Successfully passing these exams guaranteed my graduation from the program and a chance to become an apprentice with SDI, starting my work with one of their current clients. I worked with SDI’s field technicians at the SDI Warehouse as an apprentice. From replacing desktop monitors to fixing various PC components, I observed how everyone on that team operated daily. About a month later, I received an invitation for an interview with SDI’s internal IT team. After two interviews with the team, I was hired as a Desktop Technician. As of today, I have been in this position for two months now.
What initially drew you to the Xchange Chicago program?
What initially attracted me to the XCHANGE PROGRAM was the guarantee of an apprenticeship for graduates. Most other programs I researched in the past did not offer a guaranteed apprenticeship opportunity, like Xchange does. This motivated my fellow cohort members and me to excel in the program and demonstrate that we deserved the apprenticeship opportunity so we could showcase our skills.
How has the apprenticeship program prepared you for your current role as a Desktop Technician?
First, I must thank my technical trainer at Xchange, Mike Rodriguez. He showed me the ropes of what it takes to be successful in a modern-day IT work environment, which includes professionalism and strong soft skills. He knew I had strong technical skills, but he made sure I was prepared in those other areas. I believe this has helped me become a better member of the team and someone with stronger communication skills.
Where do you see your future in the IT industry, and how does your current role at SDI help you work toward those goals?
For the future, I want to delve deeper into networking and cloud computing. Networking is my favorite area within the IT world, and cloud computing is something that more companies, especially SDI, are increasingly pushing to now and in the future. I see myself becoming a network engineer in the next couple of years and eventually transitioning into a cloud engineer as well. My current role at SDI is helping me achieve those goals by gaining knowledge from everyone around me, such as the system administrators on my team. I want to learn everything I can from them so that I can take that knowledge into my future roles.
What advice would you give to future apprentices looking to join the Xchange program?
I would advise future apprentices looking to join the Xchange program never to pass up any opportunity. I wouldn’t be in the position I am today if I had never taken advantage of any of my past opportunities, including joining Xchange. Opportunities will come to you if you continue to search for them.
What inspired your interest in IT and technology?
I’ve always liked technology since childhood, but I was never certain if I wanted a career in IT. I studied computer science for a while in college and enjoyed programming, but I found it wasn’t the right fit for me. It wasn’t until around 2022 that I began exploring different areas of IT and discovered networking, which quickly sparked a strong interest in me. Learning about how the internet works, its design, and the complexities behind it made me eager to delve deeper into networking. This newfound passion motivated me to pursue a career in IT.
Outside of work, what hobbies or activities do you enjoy?
I am a huge fan of single-player video games, particularly action games and action RPGs like Elden Ring, Devil May Cry, Nioh, and Ninja Gaiden, to name a few. I also enjoy playing basketball and football and frequently head to the park during the summer evenings to participate in local pickup games with people from the community. I am interested in picking up new hobbies soon, such as cooking, fishing, and hiking. Last but not least, I enjoy spending time with my family as much as possible, whether through weekend cookouts or by going to the arcade or bowling alley.
Jose’s journey from apprentice to full-time SDI team member highlights the power of opportunity and hard work. With his passion for networking and eagerness to learn, the future looks bright for Jose at SDI! If you’re interested in collaborating with one of our talented Xchange apprentices, Contact SDI today to learn more!
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