Student Success Stories: From NGT Academy to Network Engineer Six-Figure Salary

Are you considering a new career in IT or looking to move up from an entry-level tech role? This article explores how real NGT Academy students have gone from diverse backgrounds to achieve student success as network engineers earning six figure salaries. Through hands-on training, industry certifications, and career coaching, NGT Academy empowers career changers, veterans, and aspiring tech professionals to unlock high-paying opportunities in network engineering and cybersecurity.

How Do NGT Academy Students Achieve Six-Figure Network Engineer Salaries?

Many NGT Academy graduates land network engineering roles with salaries reaching or exceeding six figures, thanks to a blend of structured, skills-based training, practical labs, mentorship, and support in obtaining in-demand certifications. Even those without a traditional IT background or degree can succeed by following a focused, hands-on learning path designed for direct employment outcomes.

From Non-Tech Backgrounds to High-Paying IT Careers

One of the most inspiring aspects of student success at NGT Academy is the diversity of backgrounds among its alumni. Students have transitioned from roles such as warehouse worker, security guard, casino dealer, and even pizza delivery driver to become network engineers and cybersecurity professionals. The common thread is a commitment to learning and a desire for financial transformation through a tech career.

For example, one graduate went from zero IT experience to landing a network engineer role at Samsung within 18 months, while a former Walmart manager now enjoys a six-figure salary as a senior network engineer. These stories demonstrate that you do not need a college degree or prior tech experience to break into this field. What you do need is the right training, mentorship, and industry certifications elements that NGT Academy provides in every program.

Key Factors That Drive Student Success

1. Hands-On Labs and Real-World Simulations

NGT Academy's curriculum emphasizes practical, skills-based learning. Students work through hands-on labs that mirror real-world networking scenarios, from configuring routers and switches to troubleshooting network outages. This experience is vital for building confidence and competence that employers recognize.

2. Industry Certifications: The Fast Track to Six-Figure Jobs

Certifications such as CompTIA Network+, Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA), and Cisco Certified Network Professional (CCNP) are highly valued by employers. NGT Academy integrates certification prep into its programs, enabling students to validate their skills and stand out in the job market.

• CompTIA Network+: Demonstrates foundational networking skills; average salary around $65,000.
• Cisco CCNA: Opens the door to advanced roles; average pay is $93,000, with six-figure potential.
• Cisco CCNP: Specialized and advanced; average salaries reach $115,000 and up.

3. Career Coaching and Mentorship

Beyond technical skills, NGT Academy provides personalized career coaching, resume workshops, and interview preparation. Mentors with real-world experience guide students, helping them navigate job searches and negotiate offers, often resulting in accelerated career progression and higher starting salaries.

What Are the Typical Career Paths for NGT Academy Graduates?

Most NGT Academy students start in entry-level IT support or help desk roles and quickly move into specialized positions such as network engineer or cybersecurity analyst. Many achieve rapid advancement within two years, moving from entry-level salaries to six-figure compensation, especially in high-demand regions like California, Washington, and New York.

Role	Average Salary	Potential with Certifications
IT Support / Help Desk	$45,000 – $60,000	—
Network Engineer	$85,000 – $122,000	Up to $156,000+
Senior Network Engineer	$115,000+	$145,000+ (with CCIE)
Cybersecurity Engineer	$105,000 – $140,000	Varies by certification

Salary potential is influenced by certifications, experience, and location. With the right credentials and support, NGT Academy students often achieve results that outpace industry averages.

Real Stories: Alumni Who Changed Their Lives

NGT Academy’s student success stories showcase a wide range of transformations:

• From Forklift Operator to Network Engineer: After completing NGT Academy’s program, one student secured a network engineering job with a salary above $100,000 with no prior tech experience.
• Veteran to Cybersecurity Specialist: A military veteran leveraged NGT’s labs and mentorship to transition into a six-figure cybersecurity role within a year of leaving the service.
• Stay-at-Home Parent to IT Professional: Another student, previously out of the workforce, became a cybersecurity technician in just a few months and now enjoys remote work flexibility and financial independence.
• Help Desk to Senior Engineer: Several alumni have moved from help desk jobs to senior network engineer positions, rapidly increasing their annual income and professional satisfaction.

These journeys are made possible by a supportive community, industry-aligned curriculum, and a focus on bridging the gap between learning and real employment outcomes.

Skills and Certifications That Set You Apart

Technical Skills in Demand

• Network design and troubleshooting (LANs, WANs, VPNs)
• Security protocols and firewalls
• Routing and switching (BGP, DNS)
• Virtualization and VoIP
• Infrastructure monitoring and IoT basics

Essential Workplace Skills

• Analytical thinking and problem-solving
• Communication and teamwork
• Adaptability and organization
• Leadership and creativity

Employers seek candidates with both technical expertise and strong soft skills. NGT Academy’s training ensures you are well-rounded and ready for the demands of modern IT environments.

How to Start Your Journey to a Six-Figure Network Engineer Salary

If you are ready to pursue a high-paying, future-proof career in IT or cybersecurity, NGT Academy offers a comprehensive path. Whether you are a complete beginner, a veteran, or an entry-level IT worker aiming to advance, our programs are designed to help you succeed.

Explore the Network Engineer Program + Cybersecurity Accelerator to get hands-on training, mentorship, and career coaching that connects you directly to real jobs in today’s market.

Why NGT Academy? Our Mission and Impact

At NGT Academy, our mission is to help 1 million people get tech jobs by 2030. We believe in accessible, practical education that transforms lives. Our graduates’ success stories are proof that with the right support and determination, anyone can achieve a six-figure income as a network engineer or cybersecurity professional.

Learn more about our mission and values on our mission page.

FAQ

What qualifications do I need to enroll in NGT Academy’s network engineer programs?
NGT Academy welcomes adult learners from all backgrounds, including those without a college degree or prior IT experience. Motivation and commitment are key.

How fast can I become a network engineer with a six-figure salary?
Many students move from zero tech experience to six-figure network engineering roles within 18 24 months, depending on dedication and certification progress. See zero tech experience journeys for more insights.

Are network engineering jobs available nationwide?
Yes, network engineering roles are in demand across the US, with especially high salaries in states like California, Washington, and New York. Learn more about salary trends.

Do I need a degree to earn a six-figure salary as a network engineer?
No. While some employers prefer degrees, industry certifications and hands-on skills can unlock six-figure opportunities, especially for NGT Academy graduates.

What support does NGT Academy offer for career changers?
NGT Academy provides hands-on labs, mentorship, certification prep, and career coaching to help career changers successfully transition into IT and networking roles. Explore how to start a career with no experience.