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.
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