Meet Umelo Onyejiaka

We had the good fortune of connecting with Umelo Onyejiaka and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Umelo, what is the most important factor behind your success?
DevOps Detroit empowers the local tech community through mentorship, workshops,, meetups and networking events that foster skill development, career growth, and innovation—helping individuals thrive and driving positive change in the industry.

Risk is uncertainty, but it can be a good thing—especially when it’s calculated. By identifying risks, you uncover your biggest concerns, which helps you think through practical solutions. This solution-oriented mindset, paired with adaptability, can take you far both in life and career.

I tend to get deeply immersed in the projects I work on, which can throw things off balance. Over time, I’ve realized the importance of stepping back, identifying when things are off, and being intentional about creating space to recharge. Finding that balance is an ongoing process, but I’m learning that sustainability comes from being adaptable and solution-oriented—not just powering through.

I’m not sure I’ve “arrived” at success yet, but for DevOps Detroit, success is measured by our social impact. It’s about the lives we’ve touched and the knowledge we’ve shared within the community. That impact—empowering others and creating opportunities—is what we consider true success.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
I’m currently a Cloud Solutions Engineer in the tech industry, and what really sets me apart is what I’m doing outside of my traditional nine-to-five job—founding DevOps Detroit. DevOps Detroit is an organization that aims to build and nurture a thriving tech community in Detroit. We highlight the incredible innovation happening here and create practical opportunities for growth, such as workshops and programs to help people upskill. One of our flagship initiatives is the Cloud Pathway Program, which sponsors certifications for young adults (ages 17–22). It’s my way of creating real pathways to enter and succeed in tech, especially for those who might not otherwise have these opportunities.

Faith has been instrumental in my journey. I believe God has given me favor and the discipline to keep pushing forward, even when it required sacrificing my social life to study for certifications and build projects. Throughout my career, learning from experienced professionals has been invaluable, and it helped me grow faster than I could’ve on my own. That’s also a major reason why I started DevOps Detroit—to connect aspiring engineers and tech enthusiasts with industry veterans, so we can all learn from each other and form a strong network.

It definitely wasn’t easy. I don’t consider myself the smartest person in the room, so I’ve always felt a need to put in extra effort and focus. I’ve battled imposter syndrome more times than I can count, and it can be tough to accept mistakes. But I’ve learned that the best thing to do is own them, learn from them, and keep going. Curiosity and stepping out of my comfort zone have opened doors I never thought were possible. Growth truly happens when we push ourselves beyond what feels safe.

My story is still unfolding—it’s not one of fame and glory, but rather of purposeful action and making an impact. I’m dedicated to creating opportunities for others and continuing to push the boundaries of what’s possible in tech, both for myself and the communities I serve.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
Shout out to Justice Oshiyoye founder of Duhtroit for being a solid friend and supporter of my vision

Shout out to Nkem Bernard founder of DetroitFind313 and Vice President of UIU Detroit she is a strong advocate of supporting other visions .

Instagram: @devopsdetroit_

Image Credits
Photography by Justice Oshiyoye