Erik Hughett

In April 2020, I took a deliberate break from my career to reassess my priorities and focus on personal well-being. The onset of the COVID-19 pandemic prompted me to reflect on the balance between work and life, particularly as I experienced burnout from the demanding hours and commitments of my previous role. This period of introspection coincided with the loss of both my beloved grandparents, further prompting me to reevaluate my life direction and the time I spent with loved ones. As I reflected on the significance of family and personal fulfillment, I realized the importance of being present for significant milestones.

With the prospect of a significant upcoming promotion that would require relocation further away from my family, I made the decision to resign from my position and take time off to prioritize spending quality time with my loved ones. I maintained open and transparent communication with my employer throughout the transition process. Over the subsequent two months, I devoted my efforts to meticulously training and facilitating the seamless transition of my successor into their role. Additionally, I actively supported the ongoing professional development of my team members to ensure continuity and effectiveness in operations.

During this hiatus, I explored opportunities for personal growth, spent quality time with loved ones, and considered a career change. Building on a longstanding interest in Computer Science, I decided to pursue formal education in this field and enrolled at Spokane Falls Community College, where I received an Associate of Applied Science Degree in Information Technology/Cybersecurity. My diverse skill set, honed through formal education, coupled with nearly two decades of experience encompassing business management, sales, marketing, strategic planning, and leadership, uniquely positions me as a versatile and experienced professional.