oseph's first career was as a law enforcement officer. While working as a campus police officer in South Carolina, Joseph discovered computer forensics, the practice of analyzing computer data to detect and prevent crime. Joseph began studying for the Certified Computer Examiner (CCE) certification, but felt overwhelmed. After many late nights, however, Joseph earned his CCE certification. "I was thrilled, but I also realized there is so much more I needed to learn, and my goal was to gain a more well-rounded experience with IT." Joseph then earned the A+ and Network+ certifications using a textbook. After failing to pass the Security+ exam, Joseph began looking for a solution, and he discovered TestOut.
The TestOut Pro Experience
Joseph immersed himself into TestOut's experience-based certification courseware, and his attitude changed. Instead of just preparing for a test, he saw that he could prepare for a job and for life. "Just reading a book and passing a test doesn't say you can do certain things. I liked what TestOut offered as far as certification and how they test through the simulations." As a result, he determined to earn the PC Pro certification. "Once I successfully completed the PC Pro certification, I moved on to the Network Pro program of study. I was completely sold on TestOut and determined to also earn the Security Pro and Linux Pro Certifications."
Outcome
"I can say with 100% confidence that TestOut Pro Certifications are better than others. I think a lot of people are hesitant to get certified because of fear of dedication and failure. I would say you have no reason to fear. With TestOut, if you do your part, you'll be successful. Look at what you get for the price. And, as a lifetime certification, you get to keep what you've earned. It's better all the way around."
Joseph's career change to IT is in full swing. His first job outside of law enforcement was as a network technician at an international airport in South Carolina. As he developed confidence and earned more certifications, he made a big jump and moved his family to Colorado where he currently works as an incident response forensic analyst at IBM. "My manager was impressed with my TestOut Pro certifications. Talking about my credentials has been very pleasing to me and a great opportunity to demonstrate what I'm capable of."
Joseph isn't done yet. His goal is to someday return to law enforcement, not as a police officer, but as a law enforcement computer forensic investigator. "I just want to say thank you to TestOut! It would not have been possible for me to be where I am today without your LabSim training courseware and the Pro certifications."
Advice on getting Pro Certified
"Make sure you have the dedication to stick with it. Don't give up. At first it looks like a lot of material, but cut that elephant up and take on one section at a time. Eventually you'll finish. You'll do well because you'll have all the resources available through TestOut. You'll be very pleased with the results. I can testify to that. What you have to look forward to is the courses are very pertinent to the certifications and to your life as an IT professional. It's well worth your time. Stick with it. You'll be glad you did!"
