Picture yourself acing the CCIE certification exams with confidence and coming out victorious. Seems like a far-fetched dream, right? Not when you have CCIEs Erica Cooper, Tim McConaughey, and Chris Miles sharing their insider tips and strategies on navigating the tough terrain of CCIE certification. Pulling back the curtain on their own journeys, they reveal their motivations, preparation methodologies, and the value this certification has brought to their careers. Erica’s narrative especially stands out, as she shares her inspiring journey from failing the route switch exam to succeeding in the data center track. CCIE isn't just an exam; it's a strategic marathon that requires planning, resourcing, and an unwavering commitment. Our esteemed guests shed light on the importance of having a plan, the power of study groups, and the resources that can be harnessed for CCIE preparation. We delve into the nitty-gritties of accountability in studying, choosing the right study group, and the advantages of cohort-based learning. But the CCIE journey isn't all rosy; there are challenges too. We dissect the differences between the written and lab exams, the necessity of quick problem-solving skills, and the financial burden it carries. But rest assured, we've also got you covered on how to approach your employers for sponsorship. As we wind up, we take a creative turn and delve into future gazing. What does the future hold for CCIE certification? It's a battle of multiple-choice exams versus practical applications, and the need to demonstrate continual learning. We explore alternative validation methods like panel discussions, blog posts, and more. The goal? To keep you ahead in the game. So, tune into this enlightening episode and get a head start on your CCIE journey. Don't miss it! More from our guest: Erica Cooper - https://twitter.com/TechLayDee We are now on TikTok! - https://www.tiktok.com/@artofneteng Cables2Clouds! https://www.cables2clouds.com Follow us on Twitter https://twitter.com/artofneteng​ Follow us on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/artofneteng/ ​Like us on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/artofneteng Join the group on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/company/artofneteng/ Check out our website https://artofnetworkengineering.com​ Merch Store – https://artofneteng.com/store Join the Discord Study group – https://artofneteng.com/iaatj