The “On-Premise IT Podcast” serves as a compelling medium to explore the nuances and shifts within the IT industry, particularly in the domain of network engineering—a field that, despite its foundational importance, seems to be dwindling in allure and perceived relevance. In this episode, hosted by Tom Hollingsworth, a range of IT experts dive into why the role of a network engineer may not hold the same appeal it once did, attributing this shift to various technological and cultural changes in the industry.
The Changing Landscape of Network Engineering
Network engineering, once a cornerstone of IT infrastructure management, is perceived to be losing its charm. As newer technologies like AI and cloud computing dominate discussions and career aspirations, traditional network roles, especially those focused on foundational technologies like Spanning Tree Protocol, are seen as less appealing. The discussion begins with a provocation: nobody wants to be a network engineer anymore. This bold statement sets the stage for a deep dive into the reasons behind this sentiment. Dakota, a relatively new entrant in the field with about four years of experience, provides a telling commentary with his statement, “We did it to ourselves.” This phrase captures the essence of how the advancements in technology that network engineers themselves championed may have inadvertently led to the profession’s decline in popularity.
The Automation Paradox
The conversation starts with an examination of how automation and sophisticated technologies have simplified many aspects of network engineering. While these advancements have increased efficiency and reduced the necessity for routine manual interventions, they have also made the foundational skills of the field less visible and seemingly less necessary. As Dakota points out, the field’s pioneers have engineered solutions so effective that the underlying systems and networks “just work,” hiding the complex mechanisms that ensure their functionality. This out-of-sight, out-of-mind scenario has led to a decrease in perceived value for the skills that keep these systems running.
The Allure of New Technologies
The panelists, including veterans like Ryan Lambert, discuss how emerging fields such as DevOps and cloud-based roles have become more attractive. These areas offer not only the excitement of working with cutting-edge technology but also seemingly provide more career opportunities compared to traditional network engineering. This trend is exacerbated by the “shiny object syndrome” where new and glossy tech areas overshadow foundational IT roles.
The Impact of Abstraction and Automation
One significant factor discussed is the level of abstraction in modern networks, where manual configurations and deep-dive troubleshooting are becoming less common due to automation and advanced tooling. The panelists lament that this shift, while beneficial in terms of efficiency and simplicity, has led to a devaluation of deep, hands-on network knowledge.
The Undervalued Backbone of IT
Despite these challenges, the necessity of networking as the backbone of all IT operations is emphasized. Without a robust understanding of networking principles, even the most advanced IT initiatives could falter. This is particularly true in security, where understanding the network is crucial for safeguarding data and systems.
Strategies for Revitalization
To counter the waning interest, suggestions are made on how to revitalize the field:
- Education and Awareness: Highlighting the critical role that network engineers play in the broader IT ecosystem could help reframe the narrative around the profession.
- Mentorship and Community: Strengthening community support and mentorship for newcomers can make the field more welcoming and appealing.
- Integration with Modern Technologies: Encouraging network professionals to integrate traditional skills with newer technologies like cloud and AI can create more dynamic and appealing roles.
The discussion wraps up with a reflection on the enduring need for network engineers, likened to plumbers of the digital world—essential but often overlooked. As technology continues to evolve, the fundamental skills of network engineering remain vital. By adapting to new technologies and maintaining a strong foundation in networking principles, professionals in this field can ensure they remain relevant and vital to the IT industry’s future.
This episode serves not only as a discussion platform but also as a call to action for the IT community to reevaluate and reinvigorate the field of network engineering. Through education, adaptation, and community support, network engineering can continue to be a critical and dynamic field within the broader IT landscape.
