Building a Cyber Legacy: A Conversation with Rico Randall
In the latest episode of the “Ask A CISSP” podcast, I had the honor of speaking with Rico Randall, a Marine Corps veteran, senior consultant at Red Hat, and host of DEM Tech Folks podcast. DEM, in this case, stands for “Develop Every Mind” and that’s exactly Rico’s goal in every venture he takes part in. Our conversation traversed Rico’s journey from the military to mastering Kubernetes and highlighted his dedication to mentoring and community involvement. Rico’s insights into transitioning careers and the importance of continuous learning were truly enlightening.
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From Tactical Data Networks to Cybersecurity Excellence
Rico’s journey began in the Marine Corps, where he served as a Tactical Data Network Administrator. He shared, “I ended up getting out after eight years as a staff sergeant. I did IT the whole time I was in.” His career took him from Okinawa, Japan, to various stateside assignments, including North Carolina and MacDill Air Force Base. Rico’s extensive experience in IT during his service laid a solid foundation for his future endeavors in cybersecurity.
The Power of Certification and Networking
One of the pivotal moments in Rico’s career was obtaining the CISSP certification. Despite the rigorous demands, Rico’s dedication paid off. He recounted, “Using the Shon Harris All-In-One guide and Boson’s audio resources, I cleared the CISSP in three months.” This certification opened numerous doors and validated his expertise in cybersecurity.
Rico emphasized the significance of leveraging social networks for career transitions. His first civilian role post-military was secured through connections, underscoring the power of networking. “It’s easier for you to get a job with someone who knows your background or your experience,” he noted. Rico’s journey is a testament to the importance of building and maintaining professional relationships.
Continuous Learning and Community Involvement
Rico’s career didn’t stop at government contracting. He joined Red Hat as a senior consultant, focusing on container infrastructure and Kubernetes. His dedication to continuous learning and self-improvement is evident. “I went through, found all the social apps and whatnot to find meetups in the area, trying to find a likeminded study group,” Rico explained, highlighting his proactive approach to skill enhancement.
Beyond his professional achievements, Rico is deeply committed to giving back. He mentors at the local Boys and Girls Club, teaching STEM to young students. “Every kid should be our kid,” he passionately stated. Rico’s dedication to community service and mentoring the next generation of IT professionals is truly commendable.
Building a Legacy Through Mentorship
Rico co-hosts the podcast “DEM Tech Folks ,” aimed at guiding individuals into IT by sharing diverse career stories. “I created the podcast because of the experience that I’m sure you have as well, especially when you go back home and people ask, ‘What are you doing?’” Rico explained. His podcast provides a platform for sharing valuable insights and helping others navigate their career paths in cybersecurity.
Rico also stresses the importance of mentorship and coaching. “Find someone that can help you figure out what your next steps are,” he advises. For Rico, mentorship isn’t just about career guidance; it’s about building a legacy and ensuring that future generations have the support and resources they need to succeed.
Final Thoughts
Rico Randall’s journey from the Marine Corps to a senior consultant at Red Hat exemplifies the power of resilience, continuous learning, and community involvement. His story is a source of inspiration for anyone looking to transition into cybersecurity. Rico’s emphasis on certification, networking, and giving back to the community offers valuable lessons for aspiring cybersecurity professionals.
For those inspired by Rico’s journey and looking to learn more or engage with his initiatives, further information can be found on his LinkedIn or the “DEM Tech Folks” podcast. Rico’s dedication to empowering others and fostering a more inclusive cybersecurity community is a beacon for those navigating their own career transitions.
Thank you for reading and stay tuned for more episodes of The Other Side of the Firewall podcast on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, and Fridays, as well as, the Ask A CISSP podcast every Thursday. Please like, share, and, subscribe.
Stay safe, stay secure!
Ryan is a retired Air Force veteran who brings over 20 years of experience in network infrastructure, project management, and cybersecurity consulting to his current role at BuddoBot . At Buddobot, he is dedicated to supporting national security by helping organizations transition from costly, reactive, and automated IT and security practices to proactive and robust security solutions.