FREE ESSAY ON COMPUTING PROFESSIONAL

COMPUTING PROFESSIONAL

 Formal Comprised
Interview of
'Devin Blank'
"Computing Professional"
Compiled by
Damon Blank
10-01-00
Intro to Programming 
ITSE 1402
A Formal Interview of 'Devin Blank'
The computer industry has taken a remarkable turn over the past 10 years. The foundation
of multi-million dollar companies rest on the hands of those skilled to handle the
demands of today's business networks. Email, fax and file services, print sharing and
remote file access, are among the many vital functions that business network
administrators are responsible for maintaining.
Devin Blank is a Web Security Analyst for the Dallas based branch of Delloite and Tousch.
Being a company that was built to rely on computer networks, Delloite and Tousch requires
and is comprised of state-of-the-art technology ranging from palm applications to
multiple branch servers. Devin handles some of the maintenance and trouble shooting for
the web based applications at the company. During our interview he elaborated on the
following questions.
1. What is your formal job description?
Explanation
Devin is a 'Web Security analyst for Network Service'. He said that in this position he
is responsible for the maintenance and security of the web based applications connected
to the company. He is often contracted by outside companies to consult and diagnose their
networks for security purposes.
2. How long did it take you to obtain this position?
Explanation
Devin attended Texas A and M University in College Station, Texas. He graduated with a
four-year degree in Business Finance with a specialization in network computing. So
looking at the big picture, it took 4 years of college plus the summers of internship in
his field. After the hiring process, Devin was placed with an 'on-the-job' trainer for 6
months. "The only way to learn the business is to do the business" Devin commented.
3. Is there a specific method you use in performing your job? If so please describe it.
Explanation
When I asked this question, Devin kind of laughed and stated he always looks forward to
answering this question. He explained his job methods to me as follows, "Have you even
seen the movie sneakers?" he asked. Devin went on to explain that in the movie, Robert
Redford is a paid "Hacker" if you will. He is hired to attempt to gain access to others'
networks or businesses. If and when he does, Devin will consult with others in his
service group on the best type of fix for the 'loop-hole' they found. 
4. What degree or certificates should one hold to attain this position? What about
industry or on the job training?
Explanation
Like mentioned in a previously discussed question, Devin has obtained a degree in
business-finance and received 4 summers worth of internship training during his college
years. The training program at the company is focused on specialized job functions
depending on the type or job. After working at the company, Devin was required to secure
and maintain a MCNE certification but did receive the class time and necessary training
to sit for the test during business hours. (Paid). 
5. What advise would you give to someone just starting out in this field?
Explanation 
Devin said that he would encourage anyone interested in the business-computing field to
start as early as they can. The industry is becoming younger and younger. Companies are
snatching graduates straight out of college and training then to work the way they wish.
6. What is a baseline / ballpark starting salary for your field?
Explanation
Devin stated that if a new hire was brought on as a trainee they would more than likely
be offered anywhere from forty-four thousand to sixty-five thousand depending on the
experience they have prior to start.
7. How competitive is the industry you work in?
Explanation
"Extremely Competitive" Devin said. "I have seen companies offer and counter-offer for
employees they really want just like buying a house"
8 Do you look forward to going to work?
Explanation 
Devin stated that he has the best job in the world. He is allowed selected travel time to
various destinations and multiple incentives. He stressed that he looks forward to going
to work.