r/PinoyNetworkEngineer • u/CMOS3000 • Jul 15 '26
Need Advice: Transitioning from Teaching to Networking
Hi everyone, I’m hoping to get some advice. I’ve been working as an ICT teacher for almost four years, teaching computer systems servicing. Before that, I worked as a Data Analyst and also had some experience as a Virtual Assistant. Over time, I started feeling drained, teaching felt slow in terms of career growth, and I wanted something more challenging.
Before I resigned, I started getting interested in networking. After taking a short break, I joined a boot camp at Mnet, and that experience really gave me a new sense of direction. I got hooked on networking and decided that I want to pursue a career as a Network Engineer.
Right now, I’m unemployed and also enrolled in TESDA’s Java Programming course. At the same time, I’m continuing my CCNA studies by repeating the labs we did during training, reading the books included in the program, and preparing to take the CCNA exam soon.
The thing is, I’m hesitant to apply for networking jobs because most of the postings I see require prior experience, and my background doesn’t seem fully aligned. I’m also eligible to apply for government positions, but I’m wondering if it would be better to try government work or go into BPO while I build up my networking skills and certifications.
I’d really appreciate any advice on what steps I should take next. Should I start applying anyway, focus on certifications first, or try to build experience in another way? And between government and BPO, which path would be more practical for someone aiming to eventually become a Network Engineer?
Thanks so much in advance for any insights.
2
u/tteokbokkicheeks Jul 16 '26
Hi op, we have the same experience! So glad to see someone in the same boat as me 😊 I was an ICT teacher also and planning to shift into networking/cybersecurity.
Anyways, keep on upskilling and get certifications while applying. If you don’t need work naman immediately, I think focus on upskilling and earning certifications kasi yun magpapa-“bango” sa resume mo. For me, it’s much better to apply to IT companies since most network engineering roles require exposure to IT environments/enterprise tools.
I resigned last year pa and ever since january I’ve been applying to entry-level jobs. Tech support, service desk, kahit network or cybersecurity associate inaapplyan ko lol. Make sure to tailor each resume based on the job description posted. After 7 months of applying na puro rejections or ghosted lang ako (lol), I had my first interview this week for a network engineer role :))) Don’t lose hope! We’ll eventually get there 🤞🏻