Well, I’ve been working in data centers for over 25 years. I got into this field back when most small and mid-sized companies hadn’t yet implemented TCP/IP networks, Active Directory, antivirus software—let alone the internet, mobile phones, virtualization, software-defined networks, or AI.

Someone might say that having witnessed the evolution of technology from the mid-90s to today, I could consider myself an authority in the field. But the truth is quite different. I’m still learning, and I still enjoy my work just as much as I did in my twenties. I see myself as an eternal student—celebrating successes, learning from mistakes, and gaining new experiences along the way.

I deeply admire the new generation of IT engineers. They have incredible potential and an unstoppable drive to achieve great things.

When I look back at myself 30 years ago, I remember a time when information lived in thick technical manuals. Documentation was scarce and hard to come by, but we found answers through research, curiosity, and a passion for our craft. Things have changed a bit since then—now we turn to artificial intelligence for answers. But even AI would be useless without the curiosity and hunger for learning that fuel our profession.

That, to me, is what defines true authority in any field: the humility to keep learning, the passion for what we do, and the unwavering conviction to pursue continuous professional growth.