Meet Maria Beckles | Program Manager, CDP

We had the good fortune of connecting with Maria Beckles and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Maria, is there something that you feel is most responsible for your success?
Throughout my journey, I attribute my success to a combination of factors that have played integral roles in shaping my achievements. First and foremost, my willingness to take risks has been a pivotal catalyst. Embracing calculated risks has enabled me to step outside my comfort zone, seize opportunities, and embrace growth.

However, risk-taking alone is not enough. Discipline has been another cornerstone of my achievements. The ability to stay focused, maintain consistency, and adhere to set goals has empowered me to navigate challenges with unwavering determination. It has instilled a sense of responsibility and commitment to excellence in all my endeavors.

Moreover, personal development has been a constant priority in my journey. I believe in continuously expanding my knowledge, refining my skills, and seeking new perspectives. Through self-reflection, seeking feedback, and engaging in lifelong learning, I have consistently evolved as an individual and professional.

Inevitably, setbacks and obstacles are part of any journey. It is in such moments that resilience emerges as a crucial trait. By cultivating resilience, I have developed the ability to bounce back from failures, learn from setbacks, and adapt to changing circumstances. Resilience has been the driving force that propels me forward, enabling me to overcome adversity and emerge stronger than before.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
What sets you apart from others? What sets me apart from others is my unwavering commitment to self-improvement, a relentless pursuit of knowledge, a strong work ethic, and grit. While I may not always be the smartest or most experienced person in the room, I have the capacity and determination to figure things out and overcome challenges.

What are you most proud of or excited about?
I am most proud of my career change. Transitioning from working in call centers to breaking into the tech industry was not an easy journey. It required immense hard work, dedication, and the support of my family. Looking ahead, I am incredibly excited about the future. If I’ve been able to achieve so much in just three years, I can’t wait to see where the next three years will take me.

How did you get to where you are today professionally? Was it easy?
My professional journey began many years ago in a call center, where I spent 16 years feeling stuck and burned out. Despite having a natural affinity for technology, I didn’t always believe in myself. It was the summer of 2019, when I was facing financial hardship, that I became determined to switch to a more profitable career, no matter what it took. The journey was far from easy; in fact, it was one of the hardest and most challenging things I’ve ever done. However, the more difficult it became, the more rewarding the outcome.

How did you overcome the challenges?
I overcame the challenges by refusing to give myself an out. I decided that I would reach the other side, no matter what obstacles I encountered. There’s a saying that goes, “If you hang out at the barber long enough, you’ll end up with a haircut,” and that proved true. I simply needed to stick with it until I caught a break. Another crucial factor was my relentless pursuit of knowledge. I never stopped learning, taking courses, seeking tutoring, and working on various projects to enhance my skills and expertise.

What are the lessons you’ve learned along the way? What do you want the world to know about you or your brand and story?
The most important lesson I’ve learned is that with the right mindset, visualization, and discipline, anything is achievable. Another crucial lesson is that most people are risk-averse, and in order to succeed in life, one must be comfortable with taking risks, embracing change, accepting failure, and being willing to feel like the least knowledgeable person at the table. My story is one of grit, perseverance, continuous self-improvement, risk-taking, and an unwavering commitment to never give up. I want the world to know that I embody these qualities and am dedicated to pursuing my goals with passion and determination.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
If a friend were visiting the area, I would make sure they have the best time ever exploring the wonders of South Florida. Our journey would begin by immersing ourselves in the vibrant art district of Wynwood in Miami. We’d stroll through the captivating streets adorned with incredible murals, and indulge in culinary delights at iconic restaurants like Zack the Baker and Andiamo Pizza.

Since we’re in the Miami area, a visit to the Frost Museum would be a must. We’d be mesmerized by the enchanting aquarium and expand our horizons at the planetarium, soaking in the wonders of the universe.

Sports enthusiasts that we are, I wouldn’t miss the opportunity to take my friend to experience the electrifying atmosphere of a Miami Heat basketball game and cheer on the iconic Miami Dolphins during a thrilling football match.

But our adventure wouldn’t end there. We’d venture into the untamed beauty of the Everglades by embarking on an exhilarating airboat tour. As we glide through the lush mangroves and spot incredible wildlife, we’d truly connect with the unique ecosystem.

No visit to South Florida would be complete without experiencing the enchanting paradise of the Florida Keys. We’d bask in the sun, feel the sand between our toes, and relish the relaxed island vibes as we explore the captivating charm of Key West.

And just when we thought the excitement couldn’t get any better, we’d embark on a memorable road trip up to Orlando, where we’d immerse ourselves in the enchantment of Disney. Whether it’s exploring the magical lands of the theme parks or enjoying thrilling rides, we’d create memories that would last a lifetime.

In South Florida, the possibilities for an unforgettable time are endless. From art and culture to sports, nature, and the enchantment of Orlando, our adventure would be a whirlwind of excitement, laughter, and unforgettable experiences.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
In my journey, there are a few other key individuals and resources that deserve credit and recognition for their significant impact on my path to success. Firstly, my family has played an invaluable role as unwavering advocates throughout my career change. Even during the darkest moments when self-doubt crept in, their belief in me remained steadfast. Their unwavering support, encouragement, and belief in my abilities have been the bedrock of my resilience and determination.

Additionally, I owe a great debt of gratitude to the web development bootcamp at Wyncode. It served as the transformative platform that propelled me into the world of technology. The comprehensive curriculum, dedicated instructors, and immersive learning environment equipped me with the necessary skills and knowledge to break into the tech industry. The bootcamp not only provided technical expertise but also fostered a collaborative community that amplified the learning experience.

Furthermore, upon graduating from Wyncode, I discovered the invaluable support of Grammarhub, a social network that became instrumental in my personal and professional growth. Connecting with like-minded individuals and industry professionals on Grammarhub allowed me to forge meaningful relationships, gain insights, and find my path within the tech industry. The platform’s vibrant community and invaluable resources contributed significantly to my ongoing development and success.

Website: https://medium.com/@maria.j.beckles

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mariiab_305

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mariabeckles/

Other: https://medium.com/@maria.j.beckles