In recent years, technological advances and a rapidly increasing user base have made computer science and cybersecurity extremely profitable fields for businesses of all shapes and sizes. However,  IT is still a relatively new and developing sector and many of us may still feel uncertain about how to get involved. In order to learn more about business in this industry, Asian American News Network recently had the opportunity to sit down with Erkang Zheng, a Chinese immigrant and veteran businessman in the cybersecurity sector to find out his success story and advice for aspiring entrepreneurs.

Although his life’s work is now dedicated to computer science, Erkang Zheng wasn’t always interested in computers. He grew up as a typical kid in China—dealing with the stress of school work, hanging out with friends, and keeping up on the latest trends. His grandfather bought him a new computer in high school to try and get him interested in this novel technology, but Erkang found it boring. However, as computers improved rapidly over the next few years, Erkang decided that he wanted to get involved in this rapidly advancing field.

Starting humbly as a salesperson for vacuum cleaners in high school, Erkang became more involved in cybersecurity and networking after entering college. After several start-up experiences (some unsuccessful), Erkang landed as the Chief Technology Officer (CTO) for Magnus Health Technologies, helping them build technology and grow the company to over a hundred employees within three years. In 2018, Erkang created JupiterOne to establish his own business and incorporate engineering into his company. His prior experience with software security at LifeOmic, Fidelity Investing, and IBM proved valuable, as Erkang integrated his extensive expertise into this new frontier. Erkang’s journey was not without hardships: whether it be having to replace team members and form new project groups, or finding a new job after being laid off.  Nevertheless, through volatile times of transitioning, Erkang persevered and forged stepping stones to his eventual success.

As an experienced entrepreneur, Erkang has a lot of helpful advice for the next generation.

1. Have great, creative, and crazy ideas, but understand when to say no and when to give up

2. Don’t be afraid to fail, and fail early! It’s important to experiment.

3. Run towards, and not away from your goals.

4. Never be satisfied – it’s important to be happy, but you have to stay hungry for more.

5. Be committed to finding your passion – something that makes you feel committed or fulfilled, don’t find something that’s just easy. 

6. Don’t measure your success by how much money you make, but by the holistic outcome of your actions.

7. Seek good managers and mentors to help you advance your career.