IT Engineer considering an MBA

I went to school for computer science and Graduated form a local college with a low GPA in 2007. Richard Stockton college of NJ 2.3 GPA. I realized I didn't like programming and I started from scratch doing basic IT support and gradually made the switch over to a Network Architect/Engineer. This was done with the help of an certifications (CCIE) job hopping, and a little bit of embellishing of the resume. I am pleased with my progress and I have surpassed my salary expectations. I enjoy the work that I do but I have become accustomed to the quick progress in my career. As far as easy options are concerned: I can continue doing federal government contracting, start my own business and go corp-to-corp and bill out other positions. (Boring work but cash is guaranteed) Make a move back to the private sector where I am lot busier and the work is more enjoyable and I get bonuses.(fun but still keeping the same title). Progress that I am looking for that I believe an MBA will help are, CTO, CIO, and transitioning to finance. I know that finance would be enjoyable since your paycheck is based on performance and now I just show up for a paycheck. Biggest concern with perusing MBA, My biggest concern is I graduate with an MBA and take a massive pay cut. I am currently closing in on 200k and I haven't seen any reviews of individuals graduating with anywhere near this salary.

BTW: I am 30, and single without kids and the only thing keeping me in DC is a house that I can rent after renovations.

 

Well, first congrats on the CCIE. Many people fail that exam when it comes to the lab portion. Did you obtain CISSP as well by chance? It's a really nice combo, especially if you add the CISA also.

I did my MBA at 31. After that I was getting calls for VC opportunities which helped me break those numbers in an area that costs less than the DC surrounding. It definitely opened many doors for me and the network from the school was quite nice. If you desire a CIO position in your future then DEF get it.

Get your facts first, then you can distort them as you please.
 

Yeah, I failed the CCIE a few times but eventually passed it after the 4th time. I thought about the CISSP but since I wasn't a security engineer I never took at more then once. I took the test and failed it. Did you get an MBA from a top 10 school? I am considering a part-time program on-campus but my I have to get this GMAT squared a way first.

 

Yeah, I failed the CCIE a few times but eventually passed it after the 4th time. I thought about the CISSP but since I wasn't a security engineer I never took at more then once. I took the test and failed it. Did you get an MBA from a top 10 school? I am considering a part-time program on-campus but my I have to get this GMAT squared a way first.

 
Best Response
dsmaniac:

Yeah, I failed the CCIE a few times but eventually passed it after the 4th time. I thought about the CISSP but since I wasn't a security engineer I never took at more then once. I took the test and failed it. Did you get an MBA from a top 10 school? I am considering a part-time program on-campus but my I have to get this GMAT squared a way first.

Yea, that lab exam has frustrated a many a good engineers over the years. Worked with one person who would be considered one of the sharpest engineers and he failed the lab the first time. The CISSP is a pretty big demand. I'm shocked you working the DC area that they have not asked you to pursue it.

No, I was not top 10, it was about 12 during that time (Kenan-Flagler). I was definitely curious to do a different program but for family commitment reasons I chose it. I always knew what I had in mind to do and I was comfortable with it not being a top 10 school.

Get your facts first, then you can distort them as you please.
 

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