Ziad Hadi is an Aruba Certified Design Expert (ACDX) and systems engineer with Aruba. Ziad is dedicated to honing his skills on the latest technologies from Aruba, which is why he took the challenge to earn the latest Design Expert certification, encompassing so much more than just wireless design!
Name: Ziad Hadi
Company: Aruba, a HPE Company
Title/Role: Channel Systems Engineer | Canada
LinkedIn
Airheads
Certifications:
Aruba Certified Design Expert #1197 (ACDX)
Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA)
Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP)
How did you begin your career journey in mobility?
I have always wanted to work in an industry that touches and potentially improves people’s lives in a meaningful way. In mobility and wireless solutions, I found something that ticked that box. Mobility shapes how we all consume data and connect to one another, and it promises to revolutionize and improve every industry it touches. Think about it, what is the first thing you ask for when you enter a restaurant, hotel, client office or even an airplane now? I think this modified version of Maslow’s hierarchy of basic human needs answers that question perfectly.
What is your technical area of focus at this stage in your career?
With the advent of IoT and its applications ranging from smart cities to voice-enabled toasters (yes, that’s real), a lack of proper security controls may cause a company to end up on the front page for all the wrong reasons. Thus, my focus now is to gain a deeper understanding of commonly accepted security frameworks, such as the Common Body of Knowledge organized by (ISC)², and use it to architect secure networks of the future.
What made you invest in learning about Aruba and becoming an ACDX?
Aruba's portfolio, and in turn the ACDX certification, has grown and changed dramatically since acquisition by Hewlett Packard Enterprise in May 2015. Whereas the previous iteration focused primarily on the flagship wireless portfolio, the current version adds wired networks, network security, mobile engagement and network management to its repertoire. This is important because being an ACDX now means much more than just being an expert at wireless design!
What motivates you to continue learning and/or what new technologies are you learning about?
Data is the new currency. Most major tech companies such as Google, Amazon and HPE have made major plays into harvesting data. However, there remains an opening on how individual enterprises can create a composite of data to create legitimate business outcomes. Therefore, to answer this need and more, I am currently enrolled in a program tailored for business analytics at Harvard Business School.
Can you share a story or an example of something that you learned by helping someone else? It can be anything anecdotal from customers, employers, partners where you used your expert knowledge.
I have learned that nobody knows everything and asking for help is not a weakness. Across EMEA and North America, I have had the pleasure of working with and occasionally helping many expert engineers across colleagues, customers and partners who are my senior in terms of knowledge and experience. I learned what separates expert engineers from great engineers is humility. Great engineers are able to temper their confidence with humility.
Do you have any suggestions for individuals who are preparing to become an ACDX?
ACDX is tailored for networking professionals with existing experience in designing Aruba solutions.
To prepare, Aruba has a fantastic learning track that teaches network and network security design to beginners as well as experts. This path will help you prepare for the ACDX prerequisite exams as well as the eight-hour marathon practical.
Finally, the devil really is in the details – ensure the “customer” is getting exactly what they need at the most affordable price.
What would you say to encourage your peers to learn more about Aruba technology?
Networking and network security are constantly evolving. This means that engineers must constantly up their game and take a gamble on which technology and solution will pave the way for the future. For example: WiFi 6 or 5G? To answer these questions and more, it makes complete sense to invest time and learn from the recognized thought leaders over at Aruba.
Read my blog "4 Reasons You Need Aruba's New Expert Certification."
