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I have backed myself into a corner and I am not sure exactly how to revive my career. I’ve been working in IT for 12 years and the last 7 years I have been a network engineer for the military (I am civilian). A few years ago I was confronted with the harsh reality that I would never have a leadership role in my organization without joining the military.

Since then I returned to college and finished my undergraduate in finance. This fall I will be starting a MBA program at one of the top 10 B schools. However, my resume only reflects technical experience and the only job offers I seem to elicit are for the same job I am currently doing. CareerBuilder, UpLadder, and Dice have only yielded technical jobs for the same salary (sometimes less).

I’m feeling boxed in because I have kids in private school and a mortgage, so I cannot take huge risks at this point in my life.

Do I hire a career counselor or coach? Wait until B school starts and use their resources?

I am ordinarily a patient person, but I am finding myself getting frustrated at my situation.

Mark's picture
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Good grief don't hire a career counselor. We can help.

If money is an issue (that's normal but you mention a mortgage and private school), how are you affording a top 10 school?

More importantly, the b-school is the answer. Top 10 schools are essentially PLACEMENT FACTORIES. The degree will get you all kinds of interviews you can't get now.

Worry less. I think you'll be fine after school.

Which school?

Mark

arendt's picture

Thanks Mark. I just went back to the first podcast about stalled IT careers and gave it another listen. I think that really hits the nail on the head. My soft skills are in dire need of work.

As for affording school, most of it will be in the form of student loans. I have been doing more side contracting work to offset some of the cost, but I am pretty much counting on a higher future salary to pay off my loan.

I'm starting UCLA Anderson's EMBA program in the fall. I'm hoping that will provide not only placement, but also mentoring. Like I mentioned, civilians do not typically get management positions in the military, which means I really don't have any mentoring available either.

Lucky for me I have over two years of podcasts to help me out! :)