Join us for an insightful conversation with Ekrem Namazci, founder of LIYA and former Data and AI Lead at Microsoft. Ekrem shares his journey from an unconventional background to tech leadership, and explains his pioneering approach to building skills in the AI era. Learn why he believes skills are increasingly more valuable than degrees, and how his "STAR" methodology (Skills Through Alternative Routes) can help anyone design their career for future success.
TOPICS DISCUSSED:
1. Evolution of Technology Access
Ekrem explains how technology has evolved from being created by experts for experts, to being created by experts for everyone, to now where anyone can create and use technology with AI tools.
2. Skills vs. Degrees
Why university degrees alone are becoming outdated before graduation, and how combining skills with practical experience creates a stronger career foundation.
3. The STAR Method
Skills Through Alternative Routes - how to gain and prove valuable skills through non-traditional paths like bootcamps, projects, and mentorship.
4. Mentorship Benefits
The power of "learning on the shoulders of giants" through mentorship, and how even just two sessions can provide essential career guidance.
5. Future of Recruiting
How skill-based hiring is transforming industries beyond tech, focusing on demonstrated abilities rather than formal qualifications.
6. Building Evidence of Skills
Techniques for proving your skills through storytelling, STAR framework (Situation, Task, Action, Result), and personal branding.
7. Managing Multiple Passions
Ekrem's approach to balancing multiple professional interests and scaling LIYA across different markets.
INSIGHTS:
- Technology evolution has created a third wave where AI tools allow anyone to develop and use technology
- Domain knowledge is increasingly valuable as AI handles more technical tasks
- Degrees remain valuable but must be supplemented with practical skills
- Mentorship can provide crucial guidance with as little as two sessions
- Storytelling about your skills is more powerful than listing them on a resume
- Public content creation (LinkedIn posts, etc.) helps document and validate skills
- Focus on one skill for 10 minutes daily to build expertise over time
TOOLS AND TECHNOLOGIES MENTIONED:
- LIYA (AI-powered skill-building platform)- LinkedIn (for networking and personal branding)- ChatGPT, AI agents, no-code tools- Computer vision technologies
CONTACT INFO:
- LinkedIn: Ekrem Namazci- LIYA on App Store: Download- LIYA on Google Play Store: Download
CHAPTERS
00:00 Introduction and Background01:46 Evolution of Technology Access04:53 Skills vs. Degrees07:44 Designing Your Career Path10:31 The Power of Mentorship13:26 The Future of Recruiting17:42 Proving Your Skills24:09 Personal Branding Through Writing25:56 Managing Multiple Passions31:12 Surviving in the AI Era34:58 How to Connect with Ekrem and LIYA
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