Prepared to Launch: How Roosevelt Pacheco Propelled His Tech Career

In today’s revolving job market, it’s becoming increasingly more important to differentiate yourself from the competition. Continuing education and upskilling are great ways to adapt and follow industry trends. Roosevelt Pacheco saw an opportunity to add to his already extensive skill set and used those skills to land his current role. This week’s impact feature story takes us on a journey into the AWS Cloud Computing world and shows how taking the initiative can land you a better career.

About Roosevelt

Before stepping into the next chapter of his career, Roosevelt Pacheco had already built an impressive foundation. With decades of leadership experience across infrastructure, systems, security, and operations, he wasn’t new to tech but a seasoned professional with a love for the field.

Can you tell us a bit about yourself and your background before joining the AWS Bootcamp?

“I worked as a leader in technology with extensive experience supporting organizations across infrastructure, systems, security, and operations.”

What were you doing professionally, and what challenges or barriers were you facing in your career at the time, if any?

“I had spent over 18 years in management and reached a point where I wanted to expand my expertise—particularly in AI and cloud technologies like AWS—to stay relevant in a rapidly evolving industry.”

What sparked your interest in pursuing a career in tech?

“Technology has always been a passion of mine. I’ve consistently enjoyed solving problems and working with systems.”

The Discovery

Every transformation begins with a spark. For Roosevelt, that spark came through finding a local tech community. After attending one of BOT’s interview workshops and receiving a referral from a trusted connection, he found himself drawn to something bigger.

How did you first hear about BOT?

“I first became interested after attending one of their interview workshops, and I was also referred by Will Lasalle.”

Were there any hesitations or fears you had before enrolling in the program?

“No—I was genuinely excited about the opportunity to learn and grow.”

What made you decide to apply or take the leap to join?

“Even with over 25 years in technology, I recognized the need to retool and modernize my skill set, especially with the rise of AI and cloud computing.”

The Opportunity

Roosevelt enrolled in BOT’s AWS Cloud Computing Cohort to expand his skill set. Roosevelt joined BOT’s AWS Cloud Computing Cohort with a clear vision: to deepen his expertise and build for the future. What followed was a transformation through hands-on experience. From configuring systems and integrating APIs to building AI agents connected to platforms like Slack and Telegram, Roosevelt immersed himself in real-world applications of cloud technology. Along the way, he strengthened not only his technical toolkit but also his adaptability and problem-solving mindset.

What were your goals or expectations when you started?

“My goal was to learn about AWS cloud technology and develop the ability to build and deploy AI agents.”

What specific skills (technical and/or soft skills) did you gain during the program?

“As a leader gained hands-on experience was critical for configuring, installing, and running OpenClaw, creating API integrations, and connecting services with AWS S3. I also strengthened my problem-solving and adaptability skills.”

Can you share a memorable moment, project, or milestone from your training experience?

“A key milestone for me was successfully building AI agents integrated with platforms like Telegram and Slack.”

Did the AWS program support you beyond technical learning (mentorship, community, networking, etc.)? If so, how?

“Yes, absolutely. The program fostered a strong sense of community—we continue to meet, collaborate, and support each other while preparing for AWS certifications.”

Were there any moments where you felt challenged? If so, how did you overcome them?

“Getting started was the biggest challenge. I overcame it by staying consistent, working through each milestone, and eventually gaining a clear understanding of how everything connects—especially when building AI agents.”

The Impact

At the time Roosevelt entered the program, he was navigating unemployment. But equipped with new, practical skills in AI and AWS, he approached his job search with renewed confidence. The program gave him a competitive edge, enabling him to speak directly to real-world AI implementation during interviews. Beyond his own success, Roosevelt has become an advocate, encouraging others to invest in themselves and explore opportunities in cloud and AI. His journey underscores a critical truth: while technology evolves, skilled people remain essential to driving it forward.

Tell us about your job search journey after (or during) the program.

“At the time, I was unemployed, but the skills and experience I gained allowed me to confidently speak about AI implementation and real-world use cases during interviews.”

How long were you looking for work before you landed your current job?

“Approximately 2 months.”

What role did the program play in helping you secure your job offer?

“It gave me a competitive edge by adding practical AI and AWS experience to my background.”

Have you been able to support or inspire others since completing the program? If so, how?

“Yes, I’ve recommended the BOT community as well as the AWS program to others and shared my experience to help them see the value in upgrading their skills and exploring opportunities in AI and cloud technologies.”

Why do you think programs like the AWS Bootcamp are important for increasing access to careers in tech?

“First of all, they are hard to find.  Programs like this are important because they equip people with the skills needed both now and in the future. While there’s concern about AI replacing jobs, the reality is that skilled professionals are still needed to implement, manage, and optimize these technologies. AI enhances productivity, but people are essential to drive it.”

The Future

Today, Roosevelt is back in the field, providing senior-level support across server and network infrastructure while integrating AI-driven solutions into everyday workflows. But perhaps more importantly, he’s become a voice of encouragement for others standing where he once stood, giving back to the community that helped him find more success.

What is your current role, and what does a typical day look like for you now?

“Provide Sr. level support server and network infrastructure while also providing guidance to improve workflows through AI-driven solutions. Now working with MS Copilot.”

What would you say to someone considering joining a BOT program but feeling unsure?

“I would strongly encourage them to take the leap. I’ve personally recommended the program to several people—it’s a valuable opportunity to level up your skills and stay competitive.”

How would you describe your experience with BOT in one sentence?

“A welcoming program with a clear vision to empower and uplift the community through technology.”

Is there anything else you’d like to share about your journey that we haven’t covered?

“Just to continue the important work you’re doing—supporting the community and individuals in this fast-changing tech landscape and helping create new opportunities for growth and entrepreneurship.”

Ready to Write Your Own Story?

Roosevelt’s journey is a powerful reminder that it’s never too late to level up. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to stay competitive in a changing industry, our programs are designed to equip you with the skills that are applicable today and in the future.

Take the next step. Join an upcoming program, attend a networking event, become a sponsor or mentor, and start building your future in tech today.