I began my technology career in the mid-1990s, when reliable guidance and training resources were scarce. Determined to become a network engineer, I pursued Microsoft certification on Windows NT 3.51. Unfortunately, the training provider failed to disclose that the required certification exams had already been retired, highlighting the risks of poorly governed and outdated training pathways.

Today, despite an abundance of information, much technical training remains unfit for purpose if the goal is real competence, operational capability, and security awareness.

My advice to both new and experienced systems engineers is simple: source training with the same diligence used when selecting software for an organisation. Training should come from the original vendor or authorised source—Cisco for Cisco, Microsoft for Microsoft, and to launch a career, CompTIA for CompTIA.

Quality training reduces operational risk, strengthens security, and builds engineers who are capable, competent, and trusted.