Smart City Spotlight: Kenneth Nguyen

At Smart City Networks, one of our core business principles has always been “It’s the People,” and we strive to highlight our wonderful team whenever possible. The Smart City Spotlight is dedicated to boosting our team members for their extraordinary work and dedication to serving our customers. Kenneth Nguyen is a Technician at Kay Bailey Hutchison Convention Center Dallas. Kenneth, this is your spotlight!

CAN YOU TELL US ABOUT YOUR BACKGROUND AND HOW YOU ENDED UP AT SMART CITY NETWORKS?

K: I started at Smart City in February 2022. My job history is quite diverse. I’ve been a barista, worked in a UPS warehouse, been a sales representative, line cook, waiter/server, financial consultant, bartender, tutor, animator/video editor, and a military service member. I joined the Air Force as a Geospatial Intelligence/Targeteer, later becoming an Aerial Transporter/Parachute Rigger. I enjoyed teaching and advising fellow Airmen, helping them with career planning and financial literacy. After an injury led me to reconsider my career path, I pivoted to IT, studying cybersecurity and networking. After the military, I worked at an AT&T store, where I met a Smart City employee who introduced me to the company.

WHAT DO YOU ENJOY MOST ABOUT YOUR JOB?

K: My favorite part of the job is interacting with different people from different parts of the world about their experiences. Being able to take what I can from their experiences and apply it to my career path/life has been a blessing in disguise. I find myself spending time with customers, engaging in conversations and ensuring they are good to go for their event. This job made me realize that I do enjoy customer service, but rather just talking to people in general and learning. Learning is my true passion.

WHAT HAS BEEN YOUR BIGGEST CHALLENGE AT SMART CITY, AND HOW HAVE YOU OVERCOME IT?

K: The biggest challenge for me has been avoiding stagnation and complacency. It’s easy to fall into a routine and stop pushing yourself. However, being surrounded by inspiring colleagues and events like Dreamhack keeps me motivated. I’ve pursued further certifications and always strive for self-improvement. This continuous drive helps me stay engaged and excited about my work.

WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE TO NEW HIRES AT SMART CITY NETWORKS?

K: For new hires, I would say stay motivated and get those certs! There is a huge difference between knowing a customer cannot connect to the internet and understanding why.

CAN YOU SHARE A FUN FACT ABOUT YOURSELF?

K: A fun fact about me is that I was in a band and played the drums. Our first show was in a bar in the middle of nowhere and we had a beer bottle thrown at us. We were once described as sounding like “a group of drunk cats that got lost and ended up in a music shop and are desperately trying to get out.” Overall, it was fun having an excuse to hang out and be together