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Austin Buettner: A Software Engineering Success Story

Austin Buettner, a proud UAT alumnus, graduated in 2005 with a degree in Software Engineering. Today, he serves as a Senior Technical Account Manager (Sr TAM) at Amazon Web Services (AWS), where his expertise and passion for technology continue to impact the cloud computing industry.

Reflecting on his time at UAT, Austin highlights the close-knit community as a cornerstone of his experience:

"One of the most cherished aspects of my time at UAT was the opportunity to forge lasting friendships. Although UAT is a relatively smaller institution compared to larger universities... the close-knit community fostered an environment conducive to building meaningful connections. To this day, some of my closest and most valued friendships are the ones I formed during my years at UAT."

Austin credits UAT’s Software Engineering degree for providing a solid foundation in problem-solving and technical skills. The focus on innovation and hands-on learning equipped him with the tools to tackle real-world challenges early in his career. The emphasis on collaboration and project-based learning also prepared him to work effectively in dynamic, fast-paced environments.

Screenshot 2024-12-03 at 9.45.05 AMA Career Built on Dedication and Growth

Austin began his professional journey as a Junior Network Administrator at the City of Maricopa, advancing quickly to oversee critical IT projects, including onboarding the city’s Fire and Police departments. He then moved on to Maricopa County, where he honed his skills as a Systems Administrator and later as an Enterprise Datacenter Architect, managing large-scale migrations and exploring cloud technologies.

His passion for security led him to earn a CISSP certification, which opened the door to a role as a Security Architect, overseeing areas like election security and courtroom systems. In 2021, a recruiter from AWS discovered Austin’s impressive expertise, leading to his current position as a Senior Technical Account Manager.

At AWS, Austin enjoys the flexibility of remote work and the freedom to explore cloud technologies while contributing to projects like the "Security Education Series," a collaboration with the Cloud Security Alliance.

Advice for Current Students

Austin offers this wisdom for current UAT students:


"Perseverance is key! The college experience can be overwhelming, with numerous distractions and challenges, especially when transitioning from a small town to a bustling city like Phoenix. However, it's crucial to remain focused and committed to your academic journey. Embrace the difficulties as opportunities for growth, and never lose sight of your ultimate goals."

He emphasizes that education is an investment in oneself and encourages students to embrace challenges, stay dedicated, and trust in the value of their efforts.

Austin Buettner’s journey from a new graduate to a leader in cloud technology exemplifies the power of hard work, passion, and perseverance. His story is a testament to the lasting impact of a UAT education and the endless possibilities awaiting those who seize the opportunities before them.

 


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