Ethan Daubenspeck is a notable figure in the realm of IT management, known for his dedication to personal development and lifelong learning. Born and raised in the northeastern United States, he has consistently demonstrated a strong commitment to growth through both academic and professional avenues. Currently enrolled in an MBA program with a focus on IT Management at Western Governors University, Ethan Daubenspeck is not only expanding his expertise but also maintaining his foundational values of structure, discipline, and responsibility. His journey from working as a full-time security guard while completing his Bachelor’s degree in IT speaks volumes about his resilience and work ethic. This interview delves into his background, journey, and the insights he has garnered along the way.
What does a productive day look like for you, and how do you stay focused while balancing work, school, and personal time?
A productive day for me begins with a clear structure. I carefully plan out my tasks, set boundaries, and adhere to a focused approach to complete what needs to be done. Balancing work, my MBA coursework and personal time requires discipline and prioritization. Incorporating physical activity helps me to reset and maintain mental sharpness, which in turn keeps me motivated and prevents burnout.
What are your go-to methods for staying current with trends in IT and emerging tech, especially while pursuing your MBA?
I like to keep it simple and consistent. I subscribe to a few reliable tech blogs, follow influential voices on LinkedIn and Reddit, and dedicate time to hands-on exploration of new tools or concepts. My MBA program also plays a pivotal role by exposing me to the current intersections between business and IT, allowing me to apply theoretical knowledge in real-world scenarios.
You earned your IT degree in two years while working full-time—what obstacles did you face, and how did you navigate those challenges?
Time management was the most significant obstacle. Balancing full-time work as a security guard while pursuing an accelerated program required intense discipline. I had to be highly intentional about how I spent every hour, cutting out distractions, setting mini-goals, and constantly reminding myself of the bigger picture.
When you’re starting a new project or learning initiative, how do you break it down and stay on track?
I prefer reverse-engineering my goals. By breaking a project into smaller milestones, scheduling realistic deadlines, and tracking weekly progress, I prevent tasks from feeling overwhelming. Whether it’s learning a new language or executing a system migration, manageable chunks make each milestone achievable.
Can you share a recent decision that pushed you outside your comfort zone? What did you take away from the experience?
Pursuing my MBA amidst a demanding work environment was a significant leap. It pushed me to look beyond mere survival tactics and engage deeply with long-term strategy and leadership concepts. This experience challenged my thinking and underscored the importance of discomfort in facilitating personal growth.
What job or role challenged you the most early on, and how did it shape your current mindset?
Working as a security guard was undoubtedly challenging. It wasn’t the most glamorous job, but balancing it with full-time study instilled in me the value of grit, discipline, and a no-excuses attitude. These experiences taught me that consistency and hard work are often more powerful than waiting for perfect conditions.
You’re largely self-taught in tech—what skill are you most proud of learning on your own, and how did you go about it?
Scripting and automation are skills I take pride in having learned independently. I began experimenting with batch scripts and PowerShell in my spare time, learning through trial and error. This hands-on approach gave me a deeper understanding of system behaviors and efficiency, and it has influenced how I approach learning in general.
Who has played the most significant role in shaping your personal and professional outlook, and in what way?
There isn’t a single person; rather, it’s figures like Mark Cuban and Warren Buffett who have greatly influenced my perspective on work, curiosity, and independence. Their commitment to continuous learning and strategic risk-taking resonates deeply with me.
What habits, routines, or character traits do you believe have been most important to your success so far?
Self-discipline and consistency have been crucial. I’ve learned the importance of continually showing up, even when tasks are hard or seem unglamorous. Structuring my day, taking time to reset, and grounding myself in my values have helped me progress steadily.
What advice would you give to someone interested in IT or tech management who is still figuring out their long-term path?
I would advise them to start exploring now. Tinker with systems, build small projects and discover what excites you. It’s okay if the path isn’t clear yet; the more you engage, the clearer it becomes. Never underestimate the power of consistency and curiosity in this field.
Daubenspeck continues to exemplify how dedication to personal growth and a disciplined approach to both personal and professional challenges can lead to success.
How has your MBA program enriched your understanding and approach towards IT management?
The MBA program has been transformative in broadening my perspective. It’s not just about acquiring technical skills but understanding how IT integrates with broader business objectives. The curriculum has equipped me with strategic thinking skills and a holistic view of how technology supports and drives business growth. This has been invaluable in my role, allowing me to align IT initiatives with company goals effectively.
What achievement in your career are you most proud of, and why?
One milestone that stands out is implementing a company-wide IT infrastructure upgrade. It was a complex project involving cross-departmental coordination and meticulous planning. Successfully executing it without significant downtime was a testament to the team’s collaboration and resilience. This achievement reinforced my belief in the power of teamwork and the importance of clear communication and planning.
What recent technological trends do you find most exciting, and how do you see them impacting the future of IT?
I’m particularly excited about the advancements in AI and machine learning. These technologies are revolutionizing how we approach problem-solving and decision-making in IT. They offer unprecedented opportunities for automation and efficiency and are set to redefine various industries by optimizing operations and enhancing user experiences. Embracing these trends will be crucial for staying competitive.
Can you elaborate on how you incorporate innovation into your everyday work?
Innovation is about constantly seeking better ways to do things. In my role, I encourage experimentation and foster an environment where new ideas are welcomed and tested. This might involve adopting new software tools, refining processes, or encouraging team members to pursue creative solutions. Innovation isn’t just about big changes; it’s often found in small, incremental improvements that enhance efficiency and effectiveness.
Where do you see yourself in the next five years, and what are your long-term professional goals?
In five years, I aim to be in a strategic leadership position where I can influence the direction of IT and business integration. My long-term goal is to become a CIO or CTO, where I can leverage my technical expertise and strategic insights to drive innovation and growth. I am committed to continuous learning and personal development to prepare for these roles.
What do you believe is the biggest challenge facing IT professionals today, and how should they prepare to tackle it?
One of the biggest challenges is keeping pace with rapid technological changes while ensuring security and compliance. IT professionals must stay agile and continuously update their skills. This means not only understanding new technologies but also comprehending their implications on data privacy and ethical practices. Building resilience and adaptability is essential to thrive amid these challenges.
How do you maintain a work-life balance, especially when pursuing demanding goals like an MBA and a career in IT?
Maintaining work-life balance requires intentionality. I make it a point to schedule downtime and engage in activities that recharge me, like hiking and spending time with my cats. Balance isn’t about equal time but rather ensuring that work and personal life co-exist harmoniously without one overshadowing the other.
Ethan Daubenspeck’s journey exemplifies how dedication to continuous learning and strategic thinking can pave the way for success in IT management. His insights and experiences serve as valuable guidance for those navigating the evolving landscape of technology and business.