Fletcher Joyce, a Senior Engineer and cornerstone of the engineering department of Sierra Systems, has just completed the first step towards achieving the coveted Cisco Certified Internet Expert (CCIE) certification.

CCIE is the highest level of technical networking certification by Cisco, and widely considered the most difficult certification in the IT industry since it began in 1993. In fact, the exam is so difficult that many CCIE certification holders – who number just 33,000 worldwide – consider it one of the greatest accomplishments in their careers. It’s no surprise, then, that CCIE certification holders represent less than 1% of the networking professionals worldwide.

The exam comprises two parts: the written exam (which Fletcher just passed) and the lab exam. The latter exam is the one that poses the greatest challenge to test takers because it tests practical, problem-solving skills in troubleshooting Cisco network equipment.

Despite the fact that most people study over 1,000 hours for the exam, very few of the 8,000 people who sit the exam annually pass the eight-hour test on their first try. Michael Reid, senior manager of CCIE programs for Cisco says, “Over the life of the program, the overall pass rate has usually been 26%. We target the material at an expert level. The pass rate is secondary."

Network engineers holding this prestigious certification are recognised for their mastery of Cisco products and solutions, which is why we’re so chuffed that one of our very own is on his way to becoming a CCIE himself.

“Besides it being a personal and professional challenge, preparing for the lab exam will allow me to continue to improve my skills technically as I grow in my role as Senior Engineer,” Fletcher says. “CCIE certification will allow me to design, propose and manage solutions more efficiently, which will be hugely beneficial for Sierra Systems and its clients.”