Zero Experience to Network Engineer in 18 Months: Real Success Stories from Career Changers at NGT Academy

Are you considering a career change to IT or networking but feel uncertain because you have zero experience? You are not alone. Every year, thousands of adults, veterans, and tech enthusiasts pivot into high-demand tech roles97without traditional degrees97thanks to hands-on, skills-based training. This article explores how NGT Academy makes it possible to go from zero experience to network engineer in 18 months, sharing real success stories and actionable steps for your own journey.

How Do People Go from Zero Experience to Network Engineer in 18 Months?

With structured, practical training, strong mentorship, and targeted career support, motivated individuals can transition from no IT background to fully employed network engineers in as little as 18 months. NGT Academy92s accelerated programs blend theory with over 100 hours of real-world labs and provide ongoing career coaching, making this transformation accessible for anyone willing to put in the work.

The Growing Demand for Network Engineers and Cybersecurity Professionals

The United States faces a critical shortage of qualified network engineers and cybersecurity professionals. As organizations become more reliant on digital infrastructure, the need for skilled IT staff continues to rise. Industry sources project more than 3 million unfilled cybersecurity jobs, and network engineering roles remain essential for building and maintaining secure, reliable systems. For adults looking to switch careers, this urgent demand represents a unique opportunity97especially when traditional degrees are costly and time-consuming.

The NGT Academy Approach: From Zero to Engineer, Fast

NGT Academy92s philosophy is simple: "zero to engineer in months, not years." Founded by Air Force veterans Terry Kim and Jacob Hess, the Academy leverages military-grade training methods to give career changers and aspiring IT professionals a direct path to employment. Programs are designed for adults, veterans, and those without a college degree, focusing on affordability, flexibility, and hands-on skills.

What Makes NGT Academy92s Training Unique?

• Intensive, Real-World Labs: Over 50% of program time is devoted to practical labs97more than 100 hours of hands-on work with real equipment and scenarios.
• Mentorship by Industry Experts: Every student receives personalized guidance from active IT professionals.
• Comprehensive Curriculum: Courses cover LAN/WAN configuration, switching, wireless, VoIP, network design, security, and more. network design
• Flexible Learning: Choose between full-time (14 weeks) or part-time (24 weeks) options, online or at the Phoenix campus.
• Career Coaching: Resume building, interview prep, and direct connection to NGT Academy92s employer network. interview prep

Real-Life Success Stories: From Non-Tech to Network Engineer

Thousands of NGT Academy graduates have successfully transitioned from unrelated backgrounds into high-skilled IT roles. These stories demonstrate that zero experience is not a barrier if you have the right training and support.

Chase Mitchell: From College Debt to Network Engineer

Chase faced $50,000 in student loans and no clear path after college. After enrolling in NGT Academy, he completed the Network Engineer Program and landed a job as a network engineer at Samsung within 18 months, moving from financial stress to a six-figure income. Read Chase's full story here.

Makeia Jackson: Stay-at-Home Mom to Cybersecurity Technician

With no prior IT experience, Makeia transitioned from being a stay-at-home parent to a cybersecurity technician in just a few months, thanks to NGT92s hands-on labs and mentorship. Her journey proves that age or background does not limit your potential. See Makeia's story here.

Diverse Paths, One Destination

• Bike courier to cybersecurity analyst
• Warehouse worker to senior network engineer
• Walmart manager, security guard, casino dealer, and more97NGT alumni now work in IT support, systems engineering, and network administration

What these stories have in common is a structured approach, hands-on learning, and dedicated support systems97core features of NGT Academy.

Step-by-Step: Your Roadmap from Zero Experience to Network Engineer

1. Assess Your Motivation and Schedule: Decide between full-time or part-time based on your lifestyle. zero experience
2. Apply to NGT Academy: No degree or prior experience required. Explore the Network Engineer Program + Cybersecurity Accelerator for the most comprehensive training.
3. Engage in Hands-On Labs: Spend over 100 hours working on real-world networking scenarios, including LAN/WAN, wireless, and security projects.
4. Leverage Mentorship: Meet regularly with industry mentors for technical guidance and career advice.
5. Build Your Portfolio: Create a technical portfolio and resume with support from NGT92s career services team.
6. Interview and Land a Job: Tap into NGT92s employer network and attend bi-weekly career classes to sharpen your interview skills.

Why NGT Academy Works for Career Changers and Veterans

NGT Academy is built for adults who need results fast. The programs are accessible to veterans, career switchers, and people without a four-year degree. Payment options are flexible, including upfront tuition or income shared agreements so you can start learning without financial pressure. Plus, the curriculum is always up to date, focused on employer needs, and designed to help you move from the help desk to advanced engineering roles.

Military-Grade Methods, Civilian Results

Co-founder Terry Kim92s Air Force background informs the entire training model. Students are taught using proven techniques that have turned complete novices into field-ready network engineers in as little as four months97adapted for the civilian job market and extended for deeper mastery.

Key Skills You Will Learn on the Journey

• Network design and implementation (LAN/WAN)
• Switching, routing, and wireless configuration
• VoIP and modern communication protocols
• Network security and threat mitigation
• Real-world troubleshooting and systems analysis
• Preparation for industry certifications like CompTIA Network+ and Security+

Outcomes: Employment and Salary Potential

NGT Academy reports over 500 IT job placements in a single year, with graduates earning an average starting salary of $72,362. Alumni move into roles like network engineer, systems administrator, cybersecurity technician, and more97many within just 18 months of starting with zero experience. These outcomes are made possible by a direct-to-employment focus, employer partnerships, and ongoing career support.

Is the Zero Experience to Network Engineer Path Right for You?

If you are motivated, enjoy solving problems, and want a career with real growth potential, this path is designed for you. The combination of hands-on learning, expert mentorship, and job placement support means that your background or prior education does not limit your opportunity. Whether you are seeking better pay, job security, or a role that challenges you, NGT Academy can help you achieve your goals.

Ready to take the first step? Learn more about our Network Engineer Program + Cybersecurity Accelerator and request your info session today.

Values and Mission: Transforming Lives Through Tech Education

NGT Academy aims to help 1 million people start new tech careers by 2030. This mission is about more than jobs97it92s about creating financial stability, empowering diverse communities, and making high-quality IT education accessible to all. Discover our mission and impact here.

FAQ

How long does it really take to become a network engineer with zero experience?
Most NGT Academy students transition from zero experience to network engineer roles in 12 to 18 months, depending on their dedication, chosen program pace, and prior commitments.

Do I need a college degree to enroll in NGT Academy92s programs?
No, NGT Academy is designed for adults, veterans, and career changers without a four-year degree. Programs focus on practical skills, not academic prerequisites.

What types of hands-on training are included?
Students complete over 100 hours of real-world labs, covering LAN/WAN setup, wireless, security, troubleshooting, and more, using industry-standard equipment and scenarios.

How does NGT Academy help with job placement?
NGT Academy offers one-on-one mentorship, career coaching, resume and portfolio support, and access to a network of employers actively seeking graduates for IT and networking roles.

Is financial assistance or flexible payment available?
Yes, NGT Academy offers upfront payment and income shared agreements, allowing students to start with $0 upfront and repay only when earning a qualifying income.