Category Archives: In-Demand Technology Pathways

Career & Technical Education, Fabrication, In-Demand Technology Pathways, Interpersonal Skills, Mentoring, Skilled Trades, SkillsUSA, Student Success, Uncategorized

NOVA’s SkillsUSA Students Bring Home the Medals!

NOVA Students Win 23 Medals at SkillsUSA State Championship!

At the SkillsUSA Virginia State Leadership Conference, held in Virginia Beach on April 23, students from NOVA won 14 gold medals, 5 silver, and 4 bronze!

Each gold medalist was declared a State Champion in their respective competitive event, including Additive Manufacturing, Commercial sUAS Drone, Computer Programming, Engineering Technology Design, Interactive Application and Video Game Development, Job Interview, Job Skills Demonstration Open, Principles of Engineering Technology, and Related Technical Math. All gold medalists qualified for the SkillsUSA National Championship in Atlanta in June.

In total, there were 8 individual champions and 6 team champions, consisting of a two-person and three-person teams. Below are the winning NOVA students and their respective events:

Competition # on team NOVA Student/SkillsUSA Member SkillsUSA Virginia State Leadership Conference 2024 Placement
Additive Manufacturing 2 Nickolas Cowen State Champion
Additive Manufacturing 2 Tariq Aldalou State Champion
Commercial sUAS Drone 2 Alait Mesfune State Champion
Commercial sUAS Drone 2 Heidy Sandoval State Champion
Computer Programming 1 Serhat Erdogmus
Computer Programming 1 Mohamed Aziz Laouiti State Champion
Engineering Technology Design 3 Julio Gagnon
Engineering Technology Design 3 Misandratr’Avo Andriamasino

 
Engineering Technology Design 3 Thomas Choe
Engineering Technology Design 3 Lauren Traversa State Champion
Engineering Technology Design 3 Mateo Aguilar State Champion
Engineering Technology Design 3 Nyan Prakash State Champion
Engineering Technology Design 3 Benjamin Yam
Engineering Technology Design 3 Kanykei Korosheva
Engineering Technology Design 3 Maddie Gebremichael
Interactive Application and Video Game Development 2 Cinthia Terceros State Champion
Interactive Application and Video Game Development 2 Ugur Aksu State Champion
Job Interview 1 Lemar Ali State Champion
Job Skills Demonstration Open 1 Liza Alekseeva State Champion
Principles of Engineering Technology 1 Jonathon Gebremichael
Principles of Engineering Technology 1 Claudio Molina State Champion
Tanjim Redhwan 1 Related Technical Math State Champion
Kiera White 1 Technical Drafting

Feedback from SkillsUSA students included the following:

Claudio Molina won 1st place in the Principles of Engineering category with his design of a car transmission. “Without support from NOVA, I wouldn’t have had the materials needed to build a five-speed manual transmission system,” Claudio said. “The Fab Lab in Manassas was particularly helpful. It provides a great work environment with a friendly, supportive staff who guided me on the materials and tools to use. Without the lab, I wouldn’t have been able to undertake this kind of project.”

Lauren Traversa, Mateo Aguilar, and Nyan Prakash took 1st place in the Engineering Technology Design category with their Automatic Dog Trainer.

“Without the resources provided by NOVA, we definitely wouldn’t have been able to accomplish this,” Lauren said. “The help from faculty like Mary, along with the Fab Lab and resources such as 3D printers and various supplies, was crucial. They not only assisted us throughout the competition but also managed all the arrangements needed for the event. This support was critical to our success.”

“The most important aspect was Mary’s incredible support at the Fab Lab; she stayed late, which was really awesome,” Mateo says. “Having the Fab Lab open for extended hours was crucial. I’d like the Fab Lab to offer even longer hours. Most of us competing are based at the Annandale Campus, making it challenging to travel to the Manassas Campus where the Fab Lab is located. I’m really grateful for Mary’s flexibility. Moving forward, my next step is to develop the Automatic Dog Trainer into an actual product that I can sell.”

Kanykei Korosova, Benjamin Yam, and Maddie Gebremichael took 2nd place in the Engineering Technology Design for their Radio Control Airplane.

“It was great, honestly. Having support from the Fab Lab really made a difference,” Benjamin said. “Mary provided the materials on time, which was fantastic, allowing us to start working immediately. It was also nice to connect with other like-minded individuals involved in the project. Mary, Justin, and Andy were very supportive; they not only scheduled the trip to Virginia Beach but also organized the entire club and set up the competition. It provided a good platform. We were fortunate to have access to ample resources, which was a big plus.”

“This is my second time participating in SkillsUSA, which is awesome,” Kanykei said. “I felt more comfortable presenting this time; it just came naturally to me. I didn’t have to force anything, and surprisingly, there wasn’t much need for additional practice because of my previous experience. Overall, it was a good experience that gave me significant exposure to the field I’m entering.

“In terms of leadership, my involvement has been extensive. For example, I started the Virginia Tech Engineering Transfer Club and became the president of the Student Government Association (SGA). This allowed me to immerse myself in a community that was naturally aligned with my field. Becoming a leader in clubs related to my interests felt like a natural progression into SkillsUSA.”

“NOVA gave me the opportunity. There was help and support from mentors and professors,” Maddie said. “It helped me realize my potential. It was a great opportunity.”

Alait Mesfune and Heidy Sandoval took first place in the Commercial sUAS Drone event.

“I just wanted to give a shoutout to Mary and Justin at the Fab Lab. Their mentorship was crucial for us in the competition,” Heidy said. “Without their help, we wouldn’t have made it this far. Also, a big thanks to NOVA for making it all possible; without their funding and resources, we wouldn’t have been able to participate in this amazing opportunity. They set us up for success by providing us with study guides and drone equipment. And SkillsUSA, sponsored by NOVA? It was a blast! It gave me something to look forward to this semester, and I was able to make new friendships along the way!”

The State Leadership Conference allowed students to use the technical knowledge acquired in the classroom to solve real-world problems and apply what they had learned, with coaching and advising from industry professionals, in a competitive environment. Now, they have the chance to represent NOVA on the national stage!

 

Career Skills, Cloud Computing, Computer Science, Cybersecurity, Data Center Operations, Engineering Technology, IET Career Days, In-Demand Technology Pathways, Industry Partnerships, Information Technology, Interpersonal Skills, Network Engineering, NOVA to Transfer, NOVA to Workforce

IET Career Day at the AN Campus Has Students Looking at NOVA

Earlier this month we held our final 2024 NOVA IET Career Day at the Annandale campus to showcase our Information and Engineering Technology programs to over 85 high school students (after successful previous career days in March on other NOVA campuses where 300+ HS students attended).

Participants toured the campus, engaged in hands-on activities, and learned from industry professionals including Nick Dahal from Amazon Web Services (AWS), Cameron Brown from Suffolk Construction, Greg Howard from Peraton, and Ryan Ammons and Obaid Sabori from NOVA IET. Key support was also provided by NOVA’s Dual Enrollment team.

The primary goal of the IET Career Days is to spark student interest in the in-demand tech pathway at NOVA, enabling them to either transfer to a 4-year institution in an IET field, or in many cases, enter the workforce directly after one or two years at the college.

Here’s how some of the attending high schoolers responded to their day at NOVA:

“I enjoyed this event because it was informative and helpful. Now, I’m considering attending NOVA for two years before transferring to a four-year college. Hearing from professionals working in the real world was interesting. I’m really glad that I signed up.”

~ Patricia, Senior, Marshall High School Academy

“I’m considering applying to NOVA or to a college in New Orleans, where my sister lives. I’m interested in cybersecurity. The Annandale campus is nice, and the data analytics session was pretty cool.”

~ Solomon, Junior, Potomac High School

“This event was great. I liked the interactive session that gave out prizes. I applied for NOVA’s cybersecurity program. I’m currently taking a cybersecurity class at school.”

~ Jerry, Senior, Marshall High School Academy

“I’m a dual enrollment student at NOVA. I wanted to come to this event to learn more about NOVA, information technology, and the internship options. It was an interesting event. I’m attending George Mason University in the fall.”

~ Evan, Senior, Marshall High School Academy

“I’m interested in mechanical engineering and the IT field, so this event was intriguing and informational. The session with the instructional system designer was interesting because I never really thought about how the government and the IT field intertwine.

I’m deciding among Penn State, George Mason, or Virginia Tech for the fall (I’m on the VT waitlist). As a dual enrollment student at NOVA, I’ve taken a history class and am currently taking an English class and a systems technology class, where I’ll earn A+ certification.

I’ve also considered attending NOVA for two years and then transferring to a four-year university. My grandfather was an English professor at NOVA but is now retired. He also worked as a diplomat and at the World Bank. He’s from Syria.”

~ Nile, Senior, Langley High School

Insights from Presenters:

Greg Howard, an Instructional Systems Designer/Curriculum Development Specialist working as a contractor at Peraton, shared advice for students interested in the IT field: “When you start your career, you may be shy or nervous about talking to people, but you will have to interact with them. Sometimes, you have to ‘fake it till you make it’ as you learn how to communicate. If you don’t, you may not be able to do your job successfully, which would be a disservice to yourself and the organization you’re working for. You have to learn how to adapt accordingly; it’s an important skill to learn.”

Obaid Sabori, a NOVA graduate with an associate degree in cybersecurity, now an entrepreneur and lab support technician at NOVA, stressed that “everyone needs to learn about cybersecurity to protect their digital identity.” He encourages students interested in cybersecurity to gain experience through hands-on projects and participation in both in-person and online competitions, such as the National Cyber League and Hack the Box.

Ryan Ammons, an assistant IET professor at NOVA, highlighted how Artificial Intelligence (AI), or machine learning, is transforming the workforce. According to The World Economic Forum’s Future of Jobs Report 2023, it’s predicted that there will be a 40% increase in the number of AI and machine learning specialists by 2027, representing a 30-35% rise in demand. Ryan emphasized  the one-year Data Analytics program at NOVA, noting it equips students with skills supporting the latest advances in digital data analytics.

Nick Dahal, a NOVA and George Mason University graduate, now an Operations Manager for Amazon Web Services, urges students interested in the IET field to apply for internships. “My internship was a game-changer. Internships are very important because your degree’s value doubles when you graduate with internship experience. Since internships are competitive, you may have to apply to many, but as you go through more interviews, talk to more people, and review your resume multiple times, you fix more mistakes and just get better at the process.”

Computer Science, In-Demand Technology Pathways, NOVA Fab Lab, NOVA IET Career Pathways, Robotics, Student Success, Women in IET, Women in STEM

Student Spotlight: Women in STEM President at NOVA

“The NOVA Women in STEM club has introduced me to a diverse group of people from all six campuses, many of whom travel to Annandale for our weekly meetings. Collaborating with other clubs enhances the fun, and I’ve learned from everyone I’ve met here. I’m grateful for the unique and enriching Nighthawk experience.” ~ Judy Marouf

Last spring, Judy Marouf co-founded the NOVA Women in STEM Club. The club seeks to “present women that pursue STEM studies with the opportunities to depart from a transitory academic environment with the tools for success in their future endeavors.”

54% of NOVA is female, but only 17% of the engineering program is female and 21% of the Computer Science program is female. In this regard, the club seeks to be “a small force of change” in order to increase female engagement in STEM fields at the college.

The goals of Women in STEM are:

  1. To create a safe space that offers a well-rounded support system full of uplifting connections and friendships.
  2. To provide members with the latest opportunities and information for academic and career development – including jobs, internships, scholarships, research, and transfer support.
  3. To organize exciting and enriching events, workshops, guest speakers, activities, trips, and games.

Judy serves as the club president, with her duties divided between internal and external responsibilities. Internally, Judy closely manages the board’s schedules and key tasks. She keeps the vice president and secretary updated, approves documents, helps the treasurer with fundraising, guides the membership chair in promotions, and sets goals with the social media manager. She also mentors the president intern for future leadership roles. Externally, she works with other student clubs and handles tasks like organizing events and ensuring the club meets all regulations.

Physics professor Manori Nadesalingam serves as the club advisor. Meetings take place at the Annandale Campus on Thursdays from 12:30 to 1:30 p.m. The club has grown to almost 250 students on Discord and offers peer support, career resources, and organizes various events. Judy encourages all NOVA STEM students, regardless of gender, to participate in club events and join the Discord community to engage with and benefit from this diverse and active group. Join using this link: https://discord.gg/fqRFxE3qzf.

Judy will graduate this spring with an associate degree in business administration and plans to complete an associate degree in computer science this summer. She is considering a future career in project management.

Recently, Judy completed her first internship during the winter break with a program called Nvolve, designed to support women in overcoming barriers in STEM fields. As a web development intern, she significantly enhanced their website and trained other interns, gaining valuable experience.

Judy is also active in the FAB Lab Product Design Incubator, where she is paired with a mentor to enhance various skills, including resume building and technical development. Last semester, she developed an AI chatbot, a project supported by the Women’s STEM Club, which showcases program benefits like stipends and skill development. This experience has enriched her resume and provided key talking points for job interviews.

Additionally, she is a semifinalist for the Jack Kent Cooke Foundation’s Cooke Undergraduate Transfer Scholarship, which helps exceptional community college students transfer to top four-year institutions without incurring student debt. The winner will be announced in May.

As for her interest in STEM? “I was inspired by my oldest brother’s love for coding and robotics,” she says. “I’ve always looked up to him as a role model. In elementary school, I noticed I wasn’t naturally gifted in math, but I enjoyed the subject enough to challenge myself. I had to work twice as hard, but that didn’t stop me.” Clearly, her efforts have paid off!

Career & Leadership Readiness Institute, Career Skills, CLRI, In-Demand Technology Pathways, Industry Partnerships, Interpersonal Skills, Mentoring, Networking, NOVA IET Career Pathways, NOVA to Workforce, Soft Skills

CLRI Completes Spring Cohort with Executive Networking Event

The Spring 2024 Career and Leadership Institute (CLRI) was capped off on March 28 with the Executive Mentoring and Networking event!

A total of 24 students graduated from the Spring program, completing 7 workshops that covered topics including Leadership and Communication Skills, Building your Personal Brand, Technical Resume Writing, and Understanding Clearances and Vetting for Government Jobs.

The spring program covered 5 weeks starting in February and culminated in the Executive Mentoring and Networking event with 13 industry executives from Iron Mountain, HR Tec, Stack Infrastructure, CoreSite, AWS, A Foot In The Door, Vetting Konsultants, Micron, and Digital Realty.

Both mentors and students were recognized at the end of the event, and participants stayed an extra hour to network with industry partners.

Feedback from CLRI students included the following:

“I’m in the cybersecurity program and looking forward to entering the workforce. This event has been amazing; it helps break the ice, and all the questions I’ve been stressing about are being answered. Having come from the medical field, I’m entering this environment fresh. I was concerned about whether companies would hire people with no experience. Now, I understand what these companies are looking for in their employees, including certifications, and so on. It has been a fantastic experience.”

~ Kayley Radar, Cybersecurity

“I enjoyed speaking with professionals in groups along with other students because it prompted me to think of questions I hadn’t considered before. It allowed us to bounce ideas off one another.”

~ Arisiema Legasse

“I think it was cool that you could talk to industry leaders face-to-face. They were all very friendly, engaging, and interested in getting to know the students.”

~ Patrick Gilllespie, Data Center Operations

“This event was excellent as it provided a good opportunity to practice interacting with others. At NOVA, not many people engage in conversations; they attend their classes and leave. So, this experience was beneficial.”

~ Josh, Computer Science

“Andy Chavez said that working for a company is like a future relationship: the company wants you as much as you want them. I really liked this event.”

~ Nga Tran, Cloud Computing

Insights from industry professionals included the following:

Miguel Ramos, CMCO, Sr. Data Center Operations Manager, along with Zuri Johnson, Recruiter at CoreSite, an American Tower Company, shared their experiences through Q & A.

CoreSite operates 28 data centers across the United States, including three in Virginia.

Q. Which of your skills can be applied beyond your present job? 

Miguel explained from a manager’s viewpoint the importance of getting to know the people in your team. He emphasized, “It’s crucial to understand their personalities, the skills they bring to the table, their needs, and how to communicate with each individual uniquely. The way you perceive information may not be the same way they understand it. Having people skills can help you in any job.”

Miguel highlighted the importance of email organization in a data center, saying, “Every asset in the building, such as generators, chillers, UPS systems, and power panels, is monitored. It’s similar to getting an engine light in your car when you need an oil change. We receive alarms every day via email. I might get 500 alarms a day, translating to 500 emails that I have to sift through.”

Zuri shared, “Customer service skills are invaluable, regardless of your job. Another critical skill is project management, especially the ability to manage your time.”

Q. When you first started in the data center industry, was it overwhelming?

Miguel responded, “Anything new can be overwhelming at first, but once you find your rhythm, get trained, and understand your duties, it becomes manageable. We tend to be our own worst critics.”

Zuri added, “Yes, it was particularly overwhelming for me since it was my first experience in this environment. Choosing a company with a great culture and team is crucial.”

Michael Guttman, Strategic Program Manager at Micron Technology, a semiconductor manufacturing company based in Manassas and operating internationally, also provided insights.

Q. What makes work fun?

“It’s engaging to work with a group of people you get along with, where everyone values each other and can be themselves. Having a space where we can professionally joke around enhances the work environment.”

Q. Are there internship opportunities at Micron?

“Yes, we offer internships. I currently have an intern from NOVA on my team, who’s doing great. Although she’s majoring in cybersecurity, I’m assisting her in transitioning to mechatronics, which aligns more closely with our work.”

Q. Is your current position something you imagined doing when you were younger?

“Not in a million years. I assumed the highest position I would achieve was that of a senior technician. Managing projects worth a hundred million dollars was beyond my imagination.”

Q. What skills from your technician background helped you become a program manager?

“My military background provided me with leadership and technical skills. I’ve always been quick to learn and enjoy it, which opened many opportunities. This industry is challenging, and having a versatile skill set has kept me employed. Networking and building relationships with senior leaders are also crucial for success. Relationships are everything.”

Q. Have you ever felt like you didn’t fit into your role or experienced imposter syndrome?

“When I joined the STAR team, my knowledge of talent acquisition was limited, making me feel like an imposter. However, through extensive reading, online research, courses, and certification in management recruiting, I gained confidence. Starting a new position always comes with uncertainties, but taking smart risks and learning from mistakes, with support from your team, helps you progress.”

Stephen Jolly, Data Center Cluster Manager at Amazon Web Services (AWS), discussed career opportunities at AWS.

Q. What kind of career opportunities are available at AWS?

“AWS offers many entry-level positions that don’t require extensive experience. For instance, with a cybersecurity degree, you can start in an entry-level data center position, learning about the business while building a network to explore cybersecurity within AWS. I encourage students, even freshmen at Nova, to join us. We support their education and help them establish a professional network, creating a beneficial situation for everyone. We look for individuals who will contribute positively to our team.”

AFCOM, Career & Leadership Readiness Institute, CLRI, Data Center Operations, In-Demand Technology Pathways, Mentoring, Student Success

Spotlight on AFCOM/CLRI Grad Bryan Buford

Bryan Buford, a NOVA IET student, completed the Career Leadership Readiness Institute (CLRI) and an internship through AFCOM. 

Through CLRI, Buford gained an introduction to personal branding, enhancing his understanding of resume development to emphasize achievements over mere job descriptions. He also appreciated CLRI’s emphasis on effective communication and leadership skills towards his professional development.

He found the mock interviews particularly equipping, especially the exposure to Amazon’s STAR method, which stands for: Situation: What was a challenging situation at your previous job that you faced? Task: What did you do when the situation arose? Action: How did you take action to resolve the situation? Results: What happened as a result of your action?

During his AFCOM internship at CyrusOne Data Centers, he began as a critical operations intern. His duties included monitoring control center screens and managing the operation of rooftop chillers. He learned from seasoned professionals, occasionally starting up generators and improving his ability to interpret one-line diagrams.

He later transitioned to the position of technician intern, where he removed racks and cables in a data hall, distinguishing between fiber and copper and learning the careful handling of fiber to prevent damage. He values internships for the practical experience they provide, believing they differentiate candidates in the job market.

Now employed as a cable technician at N2N Integrations, he enjoys the role’s diversity and dynamism, rising to the challenge of juggling a full-time job with part-time college coursework and looks forward to graduating with an associate’s degree in Data Center Operations (DCO).

His future plans include continuing his technical career before transitioning to critical operations, to pursue a mechanical engineering degree with the dream of working at NASA.

He advises those interested in the DCO field to start early and invest significant effort, pointing out the promising growth trajectory of data centers in our increasingly digital world.

Buford compares his interest in the IET field to the allure of the “Great and Powerful Oz” from The Wizard of Oz. He explained, “There’s something intriguing about observing the inner workings of computers and servers behind the scenes.”

He acknowledges the significant influence of TJ Ciccone, the IET Program and Curriculum Support Specialist, on his career. Buford is grateful for Ciccone’s impactful instruction and assistance in securing his internship.

Career Skills, Cloud Computing, Computer Science, Cybersecurity, Data Analytics, Data Center Operations, Engineering Technology, IET Career Days, In-Demand Technology Pathways, Information Technology, Network Engineering

IET Career Days are Back!

Showcasing NOVA’s commitment to supporting students and professionals in IET fields, NOVA’s IET High School Career Days return this March and April! These events introduce high school students to in-demand technology career pathways.

Check out our IET Career Day Video

Career Days are FREE and feature presentations and panel discussions by industry experts covering a range of topics such as Information Technology, Engineering Technology, Computer Science, Data Center Operations, Cybersecurity, Cloud Computing, and Credit for Prior Learning (e.g. Google, CompTIA, and AWS certifications). Students will also tour the particular NOVA campus they are visiting (Loudoun, Woodbridge, Manassas, Alexandria, andAnnandale).

High schools that meet the minimum registration requirement will be provided free transportation to and from the event and lunch is also provided. This is a first-come first-serve event and each campus is capped at 200 attendees.

Registration is required to attend and all high school students must self-register for their respective Career Day.

Register below to attend a Career Day at one of our NOVA Campuses: 

Tuesday 3/12 Loudoun Campus
Wednesday 3/13 Woodbridge Campus
Thursday 3/14 Manassas Campus
Friday 4/5 Annandale Campus

For questions contact Braden Traw at jtraw@nvcc.edu or Justin Owen at jlowen@nvcc.edu.

Cloud Computing, Computer Programming, Computer Science, Cybersecurity, Data Center Operations, In-Demand Technology Pathways, Information Technology, Internships, Interpersonal Skills, Networking, PWCS IT Internship

Paid PWCS IT Internships for NOVA IET Students

Through December 13th, there are excellent PAID internship opportunities for Northern Virginia Community College students who are currently enrolled in an IET program of study (Cybersecurity, IT Help Desk, Cloud Computing, Computer Science, and more).

Prince William County Public Schools (PWCS) is offering multiple Information Technology (IT) Support Technician internships that will begin during the spring 2024 semester.

This internship involves working under the general guidance of experienced PWCS Technical Support Specialists to assist students, teachers and staff on-site with hardware and software issues at one or more PWCS locations.

Students will gain hands-on experience in IT support while contributing to the efficient operation of a school’s technology infrastructure.

The internship will operate during regular daytime business hours and interns will be paid $20/hr with a maximum earning of $3000.

Apply by December 13 through the NOVA Career Connection portal

More about NOVA IET at https://www.nvcc.edu/academics/divisions/iet/index.html

#InDemandTech #InformationTechnology #Internships #InformationTechnology #Nighthawks

Career & Leadership Readiness Institute, Career Skills, CLRI, Cybersecurity, In-Demand Technology Pathways, Information Technology, Internships, Interpersonal Skills, NOVA IET Career Pathways, NOVA to Mason, NOVA to Workforce, PWCS IT Internship, Student Success, Student to Workforce, Women in IET, Women in STEM

PWCS IT Intern Now Working at NOVA in IT

Fatima Shareen comes full circle from NOVA cyber student and CLRI to NOVA IT employee.

 By Kristy Gillespie

Fatima Shareen is a recent NOVA cybersecurity graduate and now works as an Information Technology (IT) Support Technician at the bustling Woodbridge Campus, future site of NOVA’s Data Center Operations Training Facility and where NOVA’s Information and Engineering Technologies (IET) program is based.

Her current career pathway was trailblazed from her time as a Prince William County Schools (PWCS) IT intern when she was a NOVA student. From the beginning, the 150-hour internship at Forest Park High School provided flexibility as she could choose between an eight or six-hour day, giving her the freedom to efficiently manage her busy schedule at work and at George Mason University, where she is pursuing a cybersecurity bachelor degree.

Like many technology students at NOVA who are looking to develop their soft skills, Shareen previously completed NOVA IET’s Career & Leadership Readiness Institute (CLRI): “I loved the CLRI program. I actually enrolled twice because the instructors provided great support for the interview process and helped with resume building.”

Shereen highly recommends that NOVA IET students take advantage of CLRI so they have better internship opportunities, as being a CLRI grad played a pivotal role in securing her own PWCS intern spot.

Her key tasks during the internship included computer imaging (which involves the installation of operating systems, applications, and settings) and computer scripting for automating tasks in websites and web applications. She utilized Configuration Manager, a systems management software product, to handle a total of 3,000 laptops.

At Forest Park High School, Shereen progressed through her internship in a “warm and welcoming environment with supportive individuals.” One person who had a profound influence on her was Sylvia Avila, an IT Support Technician. “I’ve been working for the last six, seven years, but never encountered someone like her. She was simply amazing and incredibly helpful,” Shareen said.

The PWCS internship significantly bolstered her resume, enhanced her teamwork skills, expanded her IT knowledge, and provided valuable hands-on training. Shareen emphasized how those skills acquired during the internship continue to support her in her current career, particularly with diagnosing and resolving computer errors or technical issues: “If you are in the IT field, troubleshooting is the most important thing that you should know.”

Shareen has come full circle, from NOVA student to NOVA employee. Reflecting on those who made a positive impact during her time as a student, she singled out IET Professor Michael Spiller as her favorite instructor: “The way he taught was different from other teachers. He always showed up to class stating that he was the boss and we were his employees. I took 3 or 4 classes with him. He was amazing.”

In her professional environment, Shareen is keenly appreciative of NOVA’s “positive vibe,” with friendly people and job tasks similar to those performed during her internship.

Looking forward, Shareen aspires to venture into entrepreneurship and develop her own business, possibly through the Fulfillment by Amazon platform.

Shareen’s heartfelt message to NOVA students is: “your time at NOVA is an invaluable investment in your future, and I encourage you to approach it with dedication and belief in your capabilities.”

PWCS IT Internship Opportunities are currently available for NOVA students. Apply by December 13 through the NOVA Career Connection portal

More about NOVA IET at https://www.nvcc.edu/academics/divisions/iet/index.html

#Nighthawks #NOVAPride #InDemandTech #InformationTechnology #Internships #InformationTechnology

Career & Leadership Readiness Institute, Career Skills, CLRI, Data Center Operations, DCO Tech NSF Grant, Entrepreneurship, GoVA DEEP IET Grant, In-Demand Technology Pathways, Industry Partnerships, Internships, Interpersonal Skills, Mentoring, NOVA IET Career Pathways, NOVA to Workforce, NSF Grant, Professional Development, Soft Skills, STEM Networking, Student Success, Student to Workforce, Uncategorized

CLRI Graduates Network With Industry Executives

Education meets opportunity! Our 6th cohort of NOVA IET CLRI (Career and Readiness Leadership Institute) grads at Northern Virginia Community College used new skills to make industry connections at our recent networking event aimed at securing #InDemandTech internships and jobs!

We had a record number of students this Fall, with 61 students at the preliminary interest meeting and 65 students attending at least one workshop.

NOVA IET’s  M. Andy Chaves and Sedrick Settle have done excellent work inspiring students to get involved and understand the value of interpersonal relationships in the technology industry.

Overall, 41 students are on track to complete CLRI, ready to get ahead with valuable soft-skills (Building Your Personal Brand, Interview Prep, Professionalism & Accountability, Effective Communication, Trends in IT, and How to Write a Technical Resume) that are vital for their technology career journey.

During the program, students were offered at least 4 site tours to Data Centers and a microchip processing plant to gain a fuller understanding of what they are preparing for.

The big finish – an Executive Mentoring and Networking Event where industry professionals advised and conversed with students to help them build their network. Many of these companies will provide internship and job opportunities to CLRI participants, as has been the case every time we do CLRI!

Big thanks to the following executives and companies who invested their time, knowledge, and experience for our CLRI grads looking to launch their careers:

CoreSite – Miguel Ramos, CMCO
Sustainable Workforce Development Solutions (SWDS) – Daisy Saulls
FedHIVE – Michael Cardaci
Amazon Web Services (AWS) – Stephen Jolly
Micron Technology – Michael Guttman
A Foot in the Door, Inc. – Keith W. Francis
Technology Infrastructure Advisors – Ajay Bawa

The feedback we received from students was effusive. Here’s a few of the responses:

“CLRI is an incredible program from beginning to the end, every single day was filled with great opportunities to learn and explore new careers. The best program ever created to achieve students confidence at the door step of widely expanding technology industries in Virginia. I’m thankful and grateful be in this program and hope future NOVA students will continue to be inspired by CLRI.”
– Shamalee Jayakodi Arachchige

It was fantastic! I had very thoughtful and insightful discussions with industry leaders. I feel much more confident in myself and in my speaking abilities. Thank you so much for the opportunity to participate, learn, and apply the concepts you’ve instilled in my CLRI teammates and I.” – Gabriel Diaz-Rosero

“Thank you for the the event. The mentors are so welcoming, open to share and listen. We are so glad to be a part of the community. I left with a clearer vision of my next step.” – Nga Tran

NOVA students who are interested in getting in on the 2024 CLRI sessions, go to https://bit.ly/CLRI24

More about CLRI at https://www.nvcc.edu/career-services/clri.html

Career & Leadership Readiness Institute, Career Skills, CLRI, Data Center Operations, Data Centers, Digital Realty Internship, Hispanic Heritage, In-Demand Technology Pathways, Industry Partnerships, Internships, Interpersonal Skills, NOVA Foundation, NOVA IET Career Pathways, NOVA to Workforce, Student Success, Student to Workforce

Digital Realty Internship Leads NOVA Grad to Data Center Career

Photo: Alec Vaca during the interview at Digital Realty

Story by Kristy Gillespie, NOVA IET STEM Writer

Despite it being his day off, NOVA graduate Alec Vaca joined us in a brightly lit, spacious conference room, eager to discuss his journey from NOVA to securing an internship at Digital Realty and eventually progressing to the role of a Data Center Operations Engineer 1. Vaca was enthusiastic about the chance to share his experience with the NOVA community.  

When questioned about the moment he realized that Digital Realty was the ideal fit for him, Vaca explained with a smile, “it was at the end of my first three weeks here on this campus. I was like, this has to be it. I want to do the things that they are doing, to learn, to be as equipped as they are, because it’s amazing stuff we do here. And I really do enjoy it.”

“I was so excited. This is a new path, a new journey, a new chapter in my life. And thankfully, it worked out,” he added.

Vaca started his journey at Micron as an intern and spent three years working in fabrications. During that time, he built an impressive background at NOVA, having earned an A.A.S. degree in Automotive and another in Engineering Technology. Before marking his one-year anniversary with Digital Realty in September, he spent six weeks interning.

During the internship, Vaca had a variety of experiences. Some of his favorites included learning how to run the remote operating center, which he explained is like the “brain” of the building. He also had the opportunity to try on an arc flash suit used for critical switch manipulation. In addition, one of the projects Vaca was most proud of was a handbook that he created for future interns.

Vaca encourages NOVA students to intern at Digital Reality, a business that supports the data center and colocation strategies of firms across six continents, over twenty-five countries, and more than fifty metros. In fact, there are over fifteen locations in the Northern Virginia area alone. Vaca works at the IAD39 data center in Ashburn.

Vaca explained how his internship at Digital Realty helped him recognize his capabilities and potential within the company. During this experience, he gained valuable insights into the day-to-day operations of a data center and their direct impact on customers and their equipment.

When asked for advice he’d give to NOVA students interested in an internship at Digital Realty, Vaca emphasized the importance of open communication with professors. He suggested letting professors know about their interest in the internship opportunity. Additionally, he stressed the significance of humility, patience, and staying relaxed, as securing such opportunities often takes time.

We also had the opportunity to talk with John Limbacher, the Data Center Manager for IAD39, who, as a military veteran, acquired a technical background during his service. When asked about what Digital Realty looks for in a potential NOVA intern, he emphasized that students should have a willingness to learn, collaborate in a team environment, and possess essential soft skills, including communication, creativity, and problem-solving, among others.

Just prior to his internship at Digital Realty, Vaca had recently completed NOVA IET’s Career and Leadership Readiness Institute (CLRI), a free program offering NOVA students, particularly those in IET fields, the opportunity to enhance their competitiveness as job candidates. Vaca highlighted the CLRI’s benefits, citing his significant learning experiences in communication skills and resume building. “I’ve learned so much at NOVA and I’ve grown as a person through it,” Vaca said.

When describing a typical workday, or rather, a worknight for Vaca, he explained that it starts with discussions with the engineers to gather information on ongoing tasks and important updates. Following this, he conducts checks to ensure the stability of the Building Management System, which acts as the center’s eyes, and to address any potential need for replacing critical batteries.

For NOVA students interested in future opportunities at Digital Realty, Limbacher advised seeking out education reimbursement programs and completing certifications such as data center professional certifications, design, and construction certifications.

Limbacher also highlighted the diverse career pathways available within the company once an individual secures a position. In fact, beyond data center operations, employees have opportunities to transition into various roles including design and construction, implementation, portfolio management, marketing, sales, cybersecurity, and more.

Although there is a lot that Vaca enjoys about his career at Digital Realty, he mentioned that having positive relationships with his team is at the top of his list. He explained, “I have a voice and I can say, ok, this is a good idea, let’s go for it, or let’s talk about this because it doesn’t seem right to me.”

With an infectious smile, he added, “the biggest thing that hit me when I came here was strong relationships and I really enjoy it. I like how we communicate and that there’s good open dialogue.”

Information About Internships

Applications for Digital Realty internships can be accessed through NOVA’s Career Connection portal. Click here for DCO and here for Remote Hands. Postings will be up through November 17th:

Internships will be over the holiday break between semesters for 4 weeks up to 40 hours per week. Interns will be based at the Digital Realty locations in Ashburn and will be paid $20 per hour, with a maximum earning of $3,000.

Digital Realty is a valuable partner to the college in providing accessible pathways to in-demand technology careers. The NOVA Foundation has also provided outstanding support by establishing the NOVA IET Fund, which directly supports NOVA IET programs such as internships for the Data Center Operations program.

#InDemandTech #DigitalRealty #Internships #DataCenterOperations #DCO#InterpersonalSkills #BoldlyNOVA

Story by Kristy Gillespie, NOVA IET STEM Writer