The evolution of technology has transformed the role of network engineers, especially as automation and artificial intelligence (AI) continue to shape the industry landscape. In a recent interview, Sugato, a seasoned professional with over 20 years of experience in network engineering, provided a treasure trove of insights for aspiring and current network engineers looking to remain relevant and thrive in this dynamic field. Drawing from his extensive experience at global corporations like Google and Target, Sugato's guidance offers actionable strategies for tech professionals and companies alike.
Whether you are entering the field or seeking clarity on how AI will impact your career, this article distils Sugato's advice into an easy-to-follow roadmap. Let's explore how you can stand out as a network engineer and future-proof your career in Birmingham’s growing tech ecosystem.
A Career in Network Engineering: Starting with the Basics
For those embarking on their journey in network engineering, Sugato emphasises the importance of strong foundational knowledge. The basics - like understanding TCP/IP, routing protocols, and packet flow - are non-negotiable. He highlights that these fundamentals remain the core of networking, even in the age of automation and modern tools.
Key Starting Steps:
- Master the Fundamentals: Study foundational topics such as TCP/IP, ARP resolution, BGP, and IGP. These are the building blocks of networking.
- Practical Experience is Essential: Begin your career in roles like Network Operations Centres (NOC) or Security Operations Centres (SOC) to get your hands dirty and work with real-world tools.
- Be Inquisitive: Ask the "why" question. Understanding the "why" behind processes and protocols is invaluable for solving complex problems in the future.
Sugato’s own career is a testament to this approach. Early in his professional life, he was advised to step away from technical work in favour of management. However, his choice to remain deeply involved in technical problem-solving laid the groundwork for his later success. His journey illustrates the importance of staying connected to what you love - an essential lesson for any tech professional.
Future-Proofing Your Career: Embracing AI, Automation, and New Skills
One of the most pressing concerns for network engineers today is how AI will impact their roles. Sugato reassures aspiring engineers that AI will not eliminate jobs but will evolve them. He draws parallels to historical transitions, such as the introduction of calculators and computers, which shifted how professionals worked rather than making them obsolete.
Key Strategies for Adapting to Industry Changes:
- Focus on Problem-Solving: AI will handle repetitive tasks, but humans will still be required to solve the "known unknowns" - problems that AI cannot anticipate or resolve.
- Learn Automation Tools: Familiarise yourself with scripting languages like Python, Go, or Rust, and explore tools like Terraform and Ansible to automate routine tasks.
- Understand APIs: The world of networking is increasingly API-driven. Knowing how APIs work and how to integrate them into workflows is becoming a critical skill.
- Develop Soft Skills: Beyond technical expertise, Sugato underscores the importance of attributes like problem-solving, curiosity, and teamwork. These skills are essential for collaboration and innovation.
The journey to advanced roles - such as a network reliability engineer or a strategist - requires not only technical expertise but also the ability to align business goals with technological outcomes. For companies in Birmingham's burgeoning tech sector, hiring engineers with this mindset will ensure they remain competitive and innovative.
The Evolution of Networking in an AI-Driven World
AI is already making waves in network engineering, from alert correlation to anomaly detection. However, as Sugato reiterates, these changes are only the beginning. Over the next five years, he predicts that AI will shift from reactive to proactive capabilities, enabling networks to self-heal and mitigate issues before users notice them.
Examples of AI-Driven Innovations:
- Self-Healing Networks: Imagine a network that detects anomalies, such as traffic microbursts or faulty hardware, and resolves them autonomously.
- Proactive Incident Management: AI will move beyond identifying problems to creating workarounds and fixing issues in real-time, drastically reducing downtime.
- Explainable AI: Future systems will not only make decisions autonomously but also provide clear justifications for their actions, building trust and accountability.
For tech job seekers in Birmingham, these changes mean that while the tools of the trade may evolve, the core skills - problem-solving, adaptability, and strong technical fundamentals - will remain in demand.
Career Progression: From Solver to Strategist
Sugato outlines the natural progression of a network engineer’s career, which involves moving from a role focused on solving technical issues to one that aligns technical strategies with business objectives. This evolution requires a mindset shift and continuous learning.
Career Phases:
- Solver (L1, L2): Focus on troubleshooting and resolving technical issues. Develop a reputation as the go-to person for technical challenges.
- Designer (L3): Transition into designing networks based on business requirements. This stage requires a deeper understanding of architecture and planning.
- Strategist (Leadership): At this level, engineers align technological capabilities with business goals, making decisions that balance cost, risk, and innovation.
For companies in Birmingham, identifying engineers who are ready to make this transition can help organisations stay competitive in a rapidly changing industry.
Advice for Aspiring Engineers: Practical Tips and Insights
Sugato’s advice for aspiring network engineers is both practical and motivational. Whether you’re a recent graduate or transitioning into the field, he offers these actionable tips:
- Start Small: Begin with manageable tasks and roles. Build from the ground up.
- Avoid Complacency: Don’t settle in your comfort zone. Regularly seek opportunities to grow and learn.
- Make Notes: Maintain your own notes and resources for reference. Revisiting these can be invaluable for both interviews and real-world problem-solving.
- Stay Agnostic: Avoid becoming overly dependent on a single vendor or product. Focus on concepts and principles that apply universally.
- Choose a Mentor: Connect with experienced professionals who can guide your career development.
Birmingham’s Network Ecosystem: Opportunities for Growth
Birmingham’s tech ecosystem offers a wealth of opportunities for both job seekers and employers. With many global organisations and start-ups setting up operations in the city, there is a growing demand for skilled network engineers. Sugato highlights that networking roles are akin to dark matter - they are essential yet often overlooked. From facilitating seamless video streaming to enabling secure financial transactions, network engineers are the backbone of modern technology.
For companies, hiring passionate engineers who are willing to adapt to new tools and strategies is key to building resilient networks capable of meeting future demands.
Key Takeaways
- Start with the Basics: Master foundational networking concepts like TCP/IP and routing protocols; they will remain relevant regardless of technological advances.
- Adapt to AI: Embrace automation and AI as tools to enhance your work. Focus on roles that require problem-solving and creativity.
- Learn Automation: Familiarise yourself with scripting languages, APIs, and tools like Terraform and Ansible to automate routine tasks.
- Career Growth Requires Mindset Shifts: Progress from being a problem-solver to a strategist by aligning technical expertise with business goals.
- Continuous Learning is Vital: Avoid complacency and always seek to expand your knowledge, whether through hands-on experience or structured learning.
- Soft Skills Matter: Attributes like curiosity, teamwork, and adaptability are as important as technical expertise in building a successful career.
- Network Engineering is Indispensable: Despite the rise of AI and automation, the demand for skilled network engineers will persist as the backbone of modern technology.
Conclusion
Network engineering remains one of the most impactful and rewarding fields within the tech industry. As AI and automation redefine how networks are managed, the role of the engineer will evolve but not disappear. By mastering the basics, embracing new technologies, and maintaining a mindset of continuous learning, you can future-proof your career and thrive in this exciting domain.
For both job seekers and companies in Birmingham's tech ecosystem, these insights offer a roadmap to building a stronger, more resilient network engineering community. Whether you’re just starting or looking to scale new heights, the possibilities are limitless - if you’re willing to adapt and grow.
Source: "How to Stand Out and Get Hired by a Top Tech Company | Networking Skills & Career Growth Tips" - NG Networks, YouTube, Aug 15, 2025 - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FTrwxiJM_dc
Use: Embedded for reference. Brief quotes used for commentary/review.
