In this episode of Keyboard Samurai, host Wil sits down with Kevin Apolinario, widely known online as KevTech IT Support. a senior SOC analyst, technical trainer, and one of the most recognized educators in the help desk, sysadmin, and cybersecurity community.
Kevin shares his unconventional journey from 12 years in the restaurant industry, four years with the NYPD, and eventually into IT support and cybersecurity. This conversation dives deep into the realities of the help desk, the skill gaps aspiring cybersecurity pros overlook, and the truth about working with executives, SOC teams, audits, and the everyday chaos of IT.
Whether you're breaking into IT, transitioning into cybersecurity, or managing technical teams, this episode delivers real-world insight into:
- How help desk and customer-facing roles create stronger cybersecurity professionals
- Why communication and “translating tech to business” is one of the most critical career skills- What it’s really like supporting C-suite executives
- Why fundamentals—networking, operating systems, IAM, troubleshooting, matter more than certifications
- How SOC analysts and IT teams can collaborate more effectively
- The personality traits hiring managers actually look for in junior talent
- Why cybersecurity careers are impossible to succeed in without being curious, trainable, and willing to ask questionsIf you’re exploring IT, cybersecurity, help desk, SOC analysis, or want to understand how real teams operate behind the scenes, this episode is a must-listen.
Find Kevin
https://www.linkedin.com/in/itprofessionalkevinapolinario/
https://www.youtube.com/@KevtechITSupport