Tom Wechsler Interview
Tom Wechsler from Switzerland is a Microsoft Azure MVP, an independent Cloud Azure Solution Architect and a Cyber Security Analyst and trainer. Tom is a great example of an individual who has a great passion for sharing knowledge, supporting and helping grow the Tech community. He is continuously creating and uploading great video content to his YouTube channel, both in German and English. He is also a regular contributor to the Microsoft Tech Community website where you’ll find he has created a large number of tech related articles. He is active on Twitter and other social media platforms which are documented towards the end of this interview. Tom is an easily approachable individual who is always willing to assist so please follow him and reach out if you have any questions.
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Tom Wechsler Interview
Tell us about yourself?
Hi my Name is Tom Wechsler. I come from Switzerland. I’ve always been enthusiastic about technology and that will never change 😉
I have been working in IT since 2000 and have been an independent Cloud (Azure) Solution Architect / Cyber Security Analyst and Trainer since 2007
What is your greatest achievement whilst working in the world of Tech?
The absolute highlight in my IT career was the Microsoft Azure MVP award on September 1st, 2020!)
How did you get into IT?
After completing my apprenticeship as an electrician, I began studying telematics (back then there was no computer science degree). This was followed by the first certificates from Microsoft (MCSE), Cisco CCNA, etc. Further training is very important to me and will remain so. Yes, IT was and still is my greatest passion!
What would you recommend for someone wanting to start a career in IT?
First find the right “corner” in IT. As soon as the right topic has been found, training can begin. Important is: Passion, never stop learning, enjoy your work!
How did you get into the world of Microsoft Azure?
Since I’ve been dealing with Windows Server, the topic of Azure has soon come into my focus. Azure has been a central topic for me from the start. I’ve been fascinated by cloud computing for a long time and Microsoft Azure is a super exciting platform..
What are your areas of expertise? Are you still working with other Microsoft products apart from Microsoft Azure?
My focus is on the following topics: Windows Server, Windows PowerShell, Azure, AzureDevOps, Microsoft 365, Active Directory, Group Policy, Exchange Server, etc. But the Linux and Cisco environment is also a big part of my work
What certifications have you achieved, or the certifications you are working towards?
I am currently studying for the Microsoft 365 Certified: Messaging Administrator Associate. I have also obtained the following certifications: Certified Ethical Hacker, CompTIA CySA+/PenTest+/Network+/Security+/Linux+/Server+/Cloud+, Microsoft MCSE, MCSA, MCS, MCTS und Cisco CCNA R&S, Security und Cyber Ops, EC-Council Network Security Administrator, Red Hat Certified System Administrator, Linux Professional Institute: LPIC-1, LPIC-2, LPIC-3
What would you recommend for those wanting to learn Azure?
First, I would organize the documents (books, video, Azure Docs, etc.) for the AZ-900. This is the Azure Fundamentals certification. The content of this exam provides an initial foundation on the topic of Azure. Then I would get all the documents for the AZ-104 (Azure Administrator Associate). The contents of this exam provide an expanded solid foundation and knowledge.
How do you keep up to date with the latest Microsoft Azure products?
I get the latest information about Azure e.g. via an RSS feed. But also via the usual social media channels such as Twitter.
What would you recommend for someone who wants to become Azure certified?
It is essential to prepare for the exam with lots of practical exercises. This has worked best for me. Above all, I would recommend the procedure as in two questions above.
What’s your advice for someone who wants to become a public speaker but not confident, or not sure where to start?
From my point of view, it is very important to understand the topics one hundred percent. Don’t make a video or become a speaker if you’re not absolutely sure about your subject. The more you know about the subject, the easier it will be for you to present.
How did you become a Microsoft Certified Trainer (MCT)?
Since I had already taught IT at other schools, the path to the MCT was an absolute must for me. It gives me great pleasure to pass on my knowledge. Whether in a class or in the community.
How did you become an MVP (Microsoft Most Valuable Professional)?
I have been maintaining a YouTube channel for years. I regularly post information on various IT topics in many social media. All of this work was recognized by a Microsoft MVP. This MVP nominated me and that’s how the ball got rolling. I’m still very grateful for that.
What’s next in your Microsoft Azure journey?
I’ll publish more videos on YouTube, everything about Azure, Microsoft 365, etc.! For information, most of the videos are in German. But some in English will come.
Do you have any final words of wisdom?
Take your time in everything you do. Do it with passion. Always stay hungry to learn something new. Treat other people the way you want to be treated. I’ve been trying to do it since I can remember.
The most important question of all 😊
From a scale from 1 – 10 how crazy are you about Microsoft Azure?
I’m so Azure Crazy, this number doesn’t even exist !!!
End of Interview
Name: Tom Wechsler
Website address: Wechsler Information Solution
Twitter: @tomvideo2brain
Facebook: Tom Wechsler Facebook
LinkedIn: Tom Wechsler LinkedIn
Company LinkedIn: Tom Wechsler Company LinkedIn
YouTube: Tom Wechsler YouTube
