Six Months Out: What’s Next?
Six months of resilience, reflection, and readiness
A few days ago, I woke up long before my alarm could pull me out of slumber. Was I well-rested? Probably not, since I hadn’t gotten my requisite six to eight hours of sleep. Yet at that moment, my body ignored that fact. My senses were raring to go, and I had plenty to do.
“The early bird gets the worm.” - William Camden (1605)
This early start wasn’t the result of a deliberate plan to get a jump on the day. Six months ago, I transitioned from my previous role, and mornings like these often become moments of reflection. After my layoff, a close friend asked me what I was most concerned about. The answer was straightforward: healthcare. I am fortunate to have support from the ACA and North Carolina Medicaid, which has eased some of those concerns. But there is still plenty to be stressed about. While basic needs like food, clothing, and shelter are currently managed, the importance of securing a new opportunity remains top of mind.
One of my main goals during this period has been to mitigate any impact on my children. As much as possible, I aim to maintain their quality of life and opportunities. Looking ahead over the next six to eight years, this means supporting their athletics (soccer and gymnastics) and assisting with the cost of two college degrees. Fortunately, North Carolina’s in-state tuition remains manageable, and its institutions are among the finest in the nation. The best way to ensure stability is by returning to full-time work where I can apply my skills and experience to their fullest.
“Just Get a Job!”
It sounds simple, but finding the right fit in today’s job market has its challenges. The IT sector has faced significant shifts over the past few years, compounded by broader economic adjustments. According to Crunchbase, recent IT layoffs highlight this competitive landscape.
2025 (as of Feb 21): 2,150
2024: 95,667
2023: 191,000
2022: 93,000
Despite these hurdles, I remain focused and optimistic. I’ve had several promising conversations with potential employers. While some opportunities have closed unexpectedly, I view each experience as a learning opportunity. For example:
Employer 1: After several rounds of interviews, the process ended abruptly, likely due to internal restructuring.
Employer 2: "Your experience is great, but you are not a 10 out of 10." Their expectations focused on an exceptionally niche skill.
Employer 3: "Sorry, you are overqualified."
Employer 4: "We’re concerned you may leave for a higher-paying role."
While the market is competitive, I remain confident that persistence, adaptability, and the right opportunity will align.
The Break of Day
As the morning progressed, the sun began to rise. I took the opportunity to take in the sights and sounds of the new day. It was the "blue hour," and the crisp air created a peaceful setting. Birds chirped as they flitted from branch to ground and back again. Squirrels busily moved about, their tails twitching as they surveyed their surroundings. The moment was brief but greatly appreciated. I had a full day ahead and teenagers to help get off to school.
“Here comes the sun. And I say, it's all right” - George Harrison, The Beatles (1969)
Reflection
This morning, and the act of writing about it, allowed me to reflect on how I’ve used this period of transition. When potential employers ask, "What have you been doing while unemployed?" I welcome the opportunity to share. Over the past six months, I’ve remained productive, focused on growth, and stayed connected with my industry:
Applied to over 80 targeted positions
Earned four certifications related to AI/ML:
Generative AI with Large Language Models
Human Factors in AI
Managing Machine Learning Projects (Duke University)
Machine Learning Foundations for Product Managers
Expanded technical skills using VS Code and GitHub Copilot
Developed an image processing pipeline in AWS (using S3, SQS, and Lambda)
Created Python scripts for submitting prompts to major LLMs (ChatGPT, Claude, Gemini, and LLaMA)
Photographed over 20 club soccer matches (approx. 15,000 photographs)
Ran more than 250 miles
Chopped over a cord of wood
Prepared over 250 meals
Prepared over 125 cups of coffee
Completed over 100 loads of laundry
Listened to over 100 new album releases
Created this Substack
In short, I haven’t been sitting still.
Appreciation
Time is a gift. While I look forward to rejoining the workforce, I’m grateful for the opportunity to focus on growth, family, and personal development during this time. I’ve recently joined a Job Search Council (JSC) to gain additional insight and expand my network, and I’m optimistic about what lies ahead.
If you are an employer or recruiter with an open opportunity, I would be glad to connect. I am ready to bring my skills, dedication, and energy to a team that values perseverance and results.