Baltimore Navy Veteran Brings Diverse Experience To Technology PR Position
Andrew Flick's journey began with four years in the U.S. Navy during which he completed the USN Advanced Electronics and Computers Techcore and Fire Controlman A School.
He followed this with numerous internships and entry-level positions usually in tech PR and even spent some time on a farm in Ecuador. He earned his B.A. in Journalism with a focus in P. R. from Georgia State University.
What inspired you finally to enter journalism, public relations, corporate communications?
"I was out of the Navy and working as a manager at a national electronics retailer. While I enjoyed meeting people and the sales aspect; I didn't want to do retail sales for the rest of my life."
"I was also intrigued by the idea that media performed a similar type of 'sales' on a societal level to shape cultural beliefs."
"I finally decided college was the best option. When the college counselor heard what I said about media shaping culture, she pointed me toward public relations; and I never looked back."
How does your educational background relate to your current role?
"My path has not been 'traditional' regarding educational background but the day-to-day of tech PR is unpredictable; and you have to be able to think on your feet. My background has certainly taught me to be adaptable!"
"I also have a strong technical education from the Navy. If I had not returned to college as a 26-year-old freshman, or if I had relied on my degree instead of finding ways to earn experience through internships and contract work, I would not be working for Tenable Network Security today in corporate communications."
How has your education helped to further your career and contribute to your success?
"My college education immediately made me eligible for thousands of jobs that won't even consider someone without a degree."
What is some advice you can offer others looking to go into journalism, PR, or corporate communications?
"The first thing someone needs to know is that it isn't glamorous. It can be fun, but it is demanding."
"The good news is that passion can take you a long way and diverse backgrounds are helpful. A degree in PR is not a requirement; but you need a degree and good verbal and written communication skills."
"An internship is almost required now; and many people have at least two. I recommend an internship with a local TV channel or newspaper followed by one at a large PR agency which will give you a good foundation in the business overall."
"Keep LinkedIn up to date. Try to be curious, driven and on top of current events."
Susan Brown originally spent many years in banking/finance before confronting her addictions. She has now been in recovery for 20 years. Her current interests, in which she has several certifications, are metaphysics and the healing arts. She has written for Examiner.com since 2009 and also writes for Om Times.