Category: Personal Life Blog

When I look back on my career, I’m amazed at how each role—even those that seemed unrelated—helped shape who I am today. My path began far from servers and networks, in the fast-paced world of hospitality.

Starting Out: Teamwork Behind the Bar

In 2017, I got my start as a barback. I worked behind the bar, restocking supplies, washing glasses, and helping bartenders serve guests quickly. It was more than just keeping the bar running. Here, I learned how important teamwork is, how to pay attention to small details, and how to stay calm—even when things got hectic.

Into the Kitchen: Learning to Multitask

After a year, I moved into the kitchen as a front-line cook. This job was all about preparing meals, managing inventory, and keeping up with food safety standards. The kitchen taught me how to handle pressure, juggle many tasks at once, and always strive for quality—even during the busiest dinner rush.

On the Road: Meeting Customers Face-to-Face

Next, I became a delivery driver. I learned how to interact with customers, handle unexpected problems, and provide great service no matter what. Communication and patience became my strengths, and I loved seeing happy customers.

Taking the Leap: Discovering IT

Driven by curiosity, I took on an unpaid IT internship. Even though it was short, it was a turning point. I helped solve technical problems, supported staff, and learned the basics of managing IT systems. This experience sparked my passion for technology and opened new doors for me.

Stepping Up: Leading in IT

Since 2018, I’ve been the IT and Network Manager at my company, and a Linux Server Administrator. I oversee network security, coordinate software updates, work with vendors, and make sure technology runs smoothly for everyone. I also lead projects and train staff, which has helped me become a stronger leader and problem-solver.

Expanding My Role: Managing Multiple Locations

Recently, I began overseeing maintenance for six Anthem Coffee stores in Washington. Now, I troubleshoot equipment, keep facilities running, and help each location operate smoothly. Balancing this with my IT duties has made me more organized, adaptable, and proud of the work I do.

Looking Back—and Looking Ahead

My journey has never been a straight line, but every step taught me something new. Adaptability, curiosity, and a love of learning have guided me. Each experience—from barback to IT manager—gave me valuable skills I use every day.

I’m grateful for a career built on growth and discovery. As I look ahead, I’m excited to keep learning, keep improving, and keep making a difference—wherever my path takes me.

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Curious about my journey or want to connect? I’m always happy to share stories or help however I can!

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Let me know if you want to adjust the tone—more formal, shorter, or with a specific focus!

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I was both speechless and incredibly excited to begin this new chapter—it really was a dream come true. I can set up 100 tablets in just four hours, and I genuinely love what I do. Plus, I enjoy getting tablets ready for new launches and helping Joe partners with system upgrades and improvements. Staying busy and working toward my goals is what motivates me. I’m passionate about my work—and I love Joe Coffee.

This is what it looks like when I’m working on 100 tablets

One table can hold 20 tablets, so I set up 5 tables.

I am able to prepare 100 tablets in a single day, which can be exhausting. However, I find the process enjoyable because it streamlines setup for the company and makes future tasks easier. My workflow is simple and efficient: I start by powering on each tablet, launching the Joe app, and pairing the tablet with the company system. Once it’s configured, I power off the tablet and place it in a white Samsung box. Then, I package it together with the terminal and kiosk system, finishing the process. Finally, I ship the packaged units to the company.

I received my Brother Printer label, and it has been extremely helpful!

I also recently got a Brother label printer, and I love using it on my computer—it makes printing labels so easy and efficient. It’s honestly outstanding to see how much faster I can organize and prepare hardware with it. Every new tool like this makes my work even more enjoyable and helps everything run more smoothly for the team.

I also label each company’s Samsung tablet and its box. That way, if we ever need to troubleshoot, we can ask the owner for the number on the back of the tablet. The owner can then give this number to our IT team, which lets them remotely access the tablet to troubleshoot the Joe app.

I would like to share my experience working at Joe’s office.

Every day at Joe Office, the atmosphere is filled with a unique blend of creativity and motivation that makes coming to work genuinely enjoyable. The team members greet each other with cheerful smiles, and there is always a positive energy flowing through the workspace. Colleagues are not only supportive and friendly, but also genuinely invested in each other’s success, which fosters a strong sense of camaraderie. The management is approachable, encouraging both personal and professional growth by offering valuable feedback and opportunities for skill development. The office itself is bright and welcoming, with thoughtfully designed spaces for collaboration, relaxation, and focused work. Regular team-building events and fun activities help to strengthen bonds and keep morale high. All these aspects contribute to an environment where innovation thrives, making every workday exciting and rewarding. Being part of Joe Office truly feels like being part of a close-knit community that values hard work, creativity, and mutual respect.

Certainly! Here’s a refined and enhanced version of your text: — Things are different now—I no longer feel overwhelmed or defined by that old image. My work has become a bridge for communication, especially with the help of live transcription apps on my phone. It’s simply not true that a lack of formal education is an insurmountable barrier. Look at me: I’ve learned quickly and effectively, both through my job and from life itself. I don’t experience discrimination; I use both voice and sign language simultaneously. This blending of hearing and Deaf cultures is empowering for me. To be honest, the old picture feels like it’s making excuses for being Deaf, and that concerns me. Please remember—it’s never too late. If you work hard and stay persistent, you can achieve success in just a few months. To everyone in Deaf culture: push yourself, explore different paths, and find a job you truly love. Don’t rely on SSI benefits as your only option. Employment offers so much more—it provides: – Medical insurance – Dental insurance – Vision insurance – 401(k) retirement plans (at some workplaces) – Paid time off (PTO) – And many other valuable benefits So, I urge young people: don’t settle for staying at home on SSI. There is so much potential out there waiting for you. Think deeply about your choices—your hard work will open doors that SSI never could.