Tony Hassett, Instructor at CNet Training, offers some insight into his career journey, tells us what sets CNet apart from others and provides advice for aspiring data centre professionals.
Can you tell us a bit more about who you are and your journey to becoming a CNet Training Instructor?
I have always been involved in the technical aspects of the data centre industry, firstly training in the mechanical engineering field before progressing into the electrical element.
This was also my introduction to what I would now consider my area of expertise, the structured cabling or network cable infrastructure industry as it is referred to today.
This is where I believe my passion for the data centre industry first started. Having a unique set of skills enables me to impart my knowledge in a very informal way through CNet’s unique education framework.
How did you enter the DC sector?
My entry was primarily through the structured cabling industry, I was the Technical Sales Director of one of Ireland’s leading distribution companies.
This was when the term data centre was in its infancy. We referred to them as comms rooms back then. I was involved in developing sales plans based on a technical solution platform for many of Irelands first data centre operators.
Why did you decide to become an Instructor?
I decided to sell my shareholding in the distribution company and develop a consultancy practice. I had known CNet for a long time as the leading supplier of training/education in the network cable infrastructure and data centre sectors.
I was continuously learning in my daily consultancy activities so when the opportunity arose to join CNet, I saw this as a perfect opportunity to give back to the industry. It was a no brainer.
Most rewarding thing about being an Instructor?
Learner appreciation – it gives you a great sense of achievement in knowing that you have enabled a learner to be the best they can and prove it with official certification and qualifications.
Also, it’s great to know that they are using their newly found knowledge and skills, that I have taught them, in their daily job.
What makes a good Instructor?
An instructor who listens to their learners will enable them to develop an individual learning plan for each of the learners. Everyone learns in a different way so a good instructor will adapt his/her presentation and style to cater for each of the learning types presented in the class.
Working as a full-time employee at CNet gives me to more scope to continue my development and knowledge of the industry. I regularly receive technical updates from the CNet technical development team.
This keeps me ahead of the curve when it comes to the latest changes within the industry and I can rapidly add this detail into all the programs I instruct.
What do you think sets CNet Training apart from other training/education providers?
CNet’s programs are both unique and vendor independent – this alone is an excellent starting point, coupled with the continuous development of each program to stay aligned to both technology advancements and standards updates while complying with relevant legislation, sets CNet apart from the chasing crowd.
CNet’s quality management system is certified to the international standard ISO 9001 and has been since 2001, showing their commitment to delivering the best quality technical education.
CNet is the only technical education provider in the world dedicated to the digital infrastructure industry to award both official certifications and internationally recognised qualifications.
Mention commitment to on-going development and continual progression the world renowned global digital infrastructure education framework that maps education programs to actual career progression routs throughout the data centre and network infrastructure sectors.
If you could change one thing about the DC industry what would it be?
Personally, I would like to see more women involved. It is a predominately male industry. The women I have met in it from all aspects, marketing, engineering, IT and management have all been excellent and I feel more women would benefit our industry and bring more diversity to teams.
What’s the most useful piece of advice you’ve been given in your career?
God gave you two ears and one mouth Tony, listen twice as much as you talk. You will learn more.
Any advice for people who would like to get into the DC sector?
Reach out to people currently employed in the sector, get their opinions on it. They will be positive, believe me. Also remember that the data centre sector is like any other, it requires people to support every aspect of the business, not just the technical side of things.
Listen, listen, listen to the experts, they will impart their knowledge onto you. Lastly, work with a smile, you always learn more when smiling.
