I was hired to be a consultant for a branch of the military. I was to continue the research and development of a network for a management division of the military. I was originally interviewed to fill a Dbase II position, but declined it as I felt it was a path to antiquity. Apparently, they were impressed and followed up with another offer, but one for which I had no experience: network design. But, then again, I knew nothing entering my last job either. So, I took it. And, boy, was it hell out of the gates. I worked for a defense contractor and replaced a very likable guy who knew his stuff. After being grilled on base for the first week, I stood tall and promised my dedication to the cause with a confidence level of getting it done and done right. My only frustration was the politics of military lobbying. I designed and lobbied for a 2500 node fiber optic network for a secure branch of the military. After 3 1/2 years of lobbying and several levels of approval, we were halted right before contract award by an anonymous ‘complaint’. In the government, that means long investigation bearing no verdict, allot of expense, and starting over. I felt my career would be better served getting things done. So, I left for the private sector. But I kept my eye on the project from afar. Suffice it to say, they spent twice as much, took twice as long to implement and it was antiquated in 5 years (note: the fiber would still be good today). Though I was merely a shadow, it was still vindication.