In the fast-paced world of technology, knowledge is power. And at Tech Master Academy, we believe that this power should be accessible to all, regardless of their background or experience. Today, we're excited to introduce you to the minds behind Tech Master Academy: Andrew Akers and Neil Farooqi – two extraordinary individuals with a shared passion for innovation, education, and making a difference in the world of technology.
Andrew Akers: A Journey from Military Service to Tech Leadership
From the Battlefield to the Cutting Edge
Andrew Akers, our Chief Executive Officer (CEO) and Co-Founder, brings a unique blend of experiences to the table. With a background in the military and an impressive array of tech certifications, including Amazon AWS Cloud Practitioner, CompTIA Cloud Admin Professional (CCAP), and (ISC)² Systems Security Certified Practitioner, Andrew has successfully transitioned from the military to the world of technology.
During his military service, Andrew displayed unwavering dedication and a commitment to excellence that laid the foundation for his later successes. Now, as a Technical Program Manager at Microsoft, he's been instrumental in leading international teams and proactively countering high-risk cyber threats.
His expertise has shielded organizations from critical incidents like Log4J Remote Code Execution (RCE), Solarigate, Petya, and WannaCry.
A Visionary Leader at Microsoft
At Microsoft, Andrew Akers has made significant contributions to the cybersecurity landscape. He's successfully managed international teams based in the APAC region, ensuring effective collaboration and operational excellence in cybersecurity risk management. His leadership during critical cyber incidents has been nothing short of exceptional, protecting Microsoft's infrastructure and global customers.
But Andrew's impact doesn't stop there. He's also developed proactive security strategies, including robust threat modeling and comprehensive security awareness programs, fostering a culture of proactive risk management within his organization. As a trusted consultant, he provides expert guidance and strategic recommendations to internal teams and stakeholders on cybersecurity best practices and emerging trends.
Neil Farooqi: A Multifaceted Approach to Success
From Sales, Consulting to Global Exposure
Neil Farooqi, Co-Founder and COO of Tech Master Academy, brings a wealth of experience in sales, consulting and banking exposure to the table. He's navigated the complex world of wealth management, optimized revenue streams, and forged enduring client partnerships. Neil's knack for aligning solutions with corporate accounts has been instrumental in driving growth and delivering exceptional client services from sales to banking.
His career journey has led him to working as an Operations Analyst at Goldman Sachs and priorly managing accounts at Digital Cloud LLC, where he built and strengthened relationships to drive revenue growth. As a marketing consultant at F.O Consulting LLC, Neil achieved remarkable results, generating over $1.2 million in revenue in a single year.
He also has interned within the Project Management department at Commercial International Bank assisting with the development of Egypt's first Mobile Banking e-wallet software.
A Global Perspective and Multilingual Abilities
Neil's international exposure is a testament to his adaptability and global mindset. Growing up in Hong Kong, China, from the age of six, he completed his IGCSE at a British Private School, gaining a solid foundation in global education. He later moved to Washington State, where he pursued a Bachelor's Degree in Business Administration at the University of Washington.
Notably, Neil knows Mandarin, a language that adds a unique dimension to his international background. This language proficiency has opened doors to a broader network and a deeper understanding of global markets.
Commitment to Ongoing Education
Neil's commitment to continuous learning is unwavering. Neil will be pursuing a Master's Degree in Business Analytics (MSBA) and a Master’s of Business Administration (MBA). He brings cutting-edge knowledge and analytical skills to Tech Master Academy. These qualifications enable him to provide students with valuable insights into emerging trends and data-driven decision-making, which are increasingly vital in the tech industry.
A Bright Future with Tech Master Academy
At Tech Master Academy, Andrew Akers and Neil Farooqi are combining their unique experiences and expertise to empower individuals with the knowledge and skills needed to excel in the ever-evolving world of technology. Their commitment to providing a world-class education that prepares students for real-world challenges and opportunities is at the heart of Tech Master Academy's mission.
Whether you're a veteran looking to transition into the tech sector, an aspiring cybersecurity professional, or someone with a passion for data science, Tech Master Academy is the place where you can turn your ambitions into reality. Join us on this exciting journey of learning, growth, and innovation.
Stay tuned for more updates from Tech Master Academy as we continue to make excellence in technology education accessible to all.