English is my second language. American Sign Language is my first. Now, how was I to incorporate yet a third language, Information Technology, with its many terms not carried in Sign!? The language dilemma was soon solved when Lake Washington Technical College (LWTC) Adviser, Marvin Everest, convinced me that my deafness shouldn't stand in the way of pursuing my major interest, Computer Security and Network Technology (CSNT).
I soon discovered that LWTC was one of few colleges that had hands-on instruction. Where do you find another school that offers 5 hours a day of hands-on lab? I was now ready to switch from a career as an American Sign Language instructor to CSNT, a field rich in employment opportunities!
I have a strong engineering mind, and knew all would run smoothly...until I met Instructor Mark Waddington and his Network Administration course! He showed his students what it was like in the real world by pushing us to become more independent. When we ran into complex technology issues, we worked through our frustrations with Mark's expert and patient guidance.
With the help of interpreters, Kirsten Curly, Jeanne Mooberry, and Cyndi Smith, who did a fantastic job of interpreting computer vocabulary, I was able to graduate in December 2007 with my Associate of Applied Science degree in CSNT. I'm proud to report I've been an honor student throughout the program and have received several outstanding attendance, scholastic performance, and positive attitude awards.
My goal this summer is to study and pass Network + and Security + exams to obtain certification. After graduation, I'd love to work for Hands On Video Relay Service or Sorenson Video Relay Service companies which consist mostly of deaf employees. Another goal is to learn C +, C# and C ++ language, as I'd like to know how to develop and write software.
I have my work cut out for me, while also raising my two dear children, a daughter who is 9 and a son who is 7. LWTC has set me on a solid path to success.
Stephen V.B. Holm
Lake Washington Technical College (LWTC) has been the right fit for me. Not only does the college offer Computer Security and Network Technician (CSNT) courses, but also my major area of interest, Computer Forensics.
However, the combination of my disability, taking 23 credits, commuting, and trying to work proved a challenge. Fortunately, the CSNT instructors showed extraordinary interest in my achieving success in my studies and reaching my goals. They are enthusiastic and passionate and will keep me coming back to LWTC to improve my overall professional advancement. Frankly, Instructors Joe Martorelli, Marvin Everest, and Jim Howe are so outstanding, that if you were in any of their classes blindfolded and hearing impaired, you still could not help learning a great deal. I quickly found that all of the LWTC instructors are truly exceptional and professional. Their top-tier ethics, instruction, and role modeling have definitely impacted my overall learning and attitude for professional conduct.
In June 2005, I was thrilled to receive the Laurie Clayton Memorial Scholarship which was an honor for me, my family, and LWTC. The award is given to a student who not only demonstrates financial need, but who has overcome challenges to achieve academic success.
I'm taking a break from my courses to work over the summer, but will return fall of 2006 to complete my studies and stay current with the ever-changing field of computer-related technologies.
I hope to accomplish both the Computer Forensics and CSNT course schedule to receive my AAS degree. Since I made the Deans List, I'm definitely on the right track. Noteworthy, too, is that the college's Kirkland location couldn't be better for studying technology, surrounded by all of the high tech companies in the area. Currently, I'm self employed with the goal of starting another company to provide customers with the outstanding service and professionalism I learned while enrolled in the Computer Forensics/CSNT program at LWTC.
"To prepare students for today's careers and tomorrow's opportunities" couldn't be a better mission statement for LWTC. It works. I feel prepared.
Dustin Sweet
In September, 2003, I faced a tough job market, no degree, and increasingly obsolete skills, with the closure of the electronics factory where I was employed. When I saw that Lake Washington Technical College (LWTC) was offering a program in Computer Forensics & Security, I jumped at the opportunity to fulfill a lifelong dream. With my wife's support, we turned our lives upside-down for 1 ½ years, in anticipation of the better life the LWTC degree would provide.
I was especially excited because LWTC was among the first two-year colleges in the country to offer an AA degree in this emerging Information Technology (IT) field. I spoke with the program advisor, Marvin Everest, and was impressed by his knowledge, genuine interest in my questions, and excitement about the new program.
I've always been investigative by nature and driven by learning what "makes things tick." In forensics, I learn not only the secrets and obscurities of networks and filesystems, but about people as well. I also know that having skills in IT Security will give my resume that extra edge. While forensics is a field that demands absolute precision and meticulous documentation, there is plenty of room for new ideas and creative approaches to solving problems.
Joe Martorelli, one of my favorite instructors, continually keeps the program cutting edge by consulting industry experts and adjusting the curriculum as needed. I'll always be grateful for his mentorship and his encouragement to develop an idea. I did just that, and now present my idea to the FBI... original image recognition software that will help identify and rescue missing and exploited children!
I'm proud to be one of the first graduates of the Computer Forensics & Security Program. I hold a 3.995 GPA and am a member of the Phi Theta Kappa International Honor Society.
Currently, I'm enjoying work on a contract basis as a software builder at a world renowned Redmond-based software company. In my free moments, I want nothing more than to spend time with my three baby boys and beautiful wife. We reached this goal together.
