Texas Tech Fundamentals Spring 2022 Graduation Book

TECH FUNDAMENTALS

SPRING 2022

OUR STORY

NPower is a national nonprofit that offers an alternative fast-track to tech careers for military veterans, military spouses and young adults from underserved communities in New York, Texas, California, Maryland, New Jersey, Missouri, and Michigan. Our six-month program fuels a diverse pipeline of digital professionals hired into entry-level and mid-level jobs by Fortune 500 companies throughout the U.S.

Our curriculum equips students to meet marketplace demand—engaging businesses, volunteers and nonprofits in their long-term success. We invest in the growth of our alumni with continued professional development and credentialing.

NATIONAL

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Matt Horner Chair Executive Vice President Global Enterprise Sales World Wide Technology, Inc.

Gail Fierstein | Vice Chair SVP, Global Head of People CaaStle

Stephen M. Murphy Secretary Sr. Managing Director, Financial Services Technology, Global Lead Accenture

Viola Maxwell-Thompson Treasurer CEO Emeritus Information Technology Senior Management Forum (ITSMF)

Luisana Estevez Board Observer

NPOWER NY GRADUATE VP, Data Center Production Operations Engineer Meta

Michael Fugett Board Observer US Army NPOWER TX GRADUATE VP, Production Management Citi

Gerald Charles Jr. VP and Head of Product for Omni Customer Servicing Capital One

Craig Cuffie Chief Procurement Officer HSBC

Dean Del Vecchio EVP, Chief of Operations and CIO The Guardian Life Insurance Company of America

Guillermo Diaz, Jr. Founder and CEO Conectado, Inc.

Ami Desai Chief of Staff to Founder, Chairman & CEO Vista Equity Partners

Michael Fey Co-Founder & CEO Island

TEXAS

Keir Gumbs Chief Legal Officer Broadridge Financial Solutions

Kateau James Global Chief Operating Officer Deloitte Technology

Tony Kerrison Chief Technology Officer Bank of America

Debra King Chief Information Officer Bunge

Jennifer Kleinert Chief Operating Officer, Enterprise Infrastructure Operations & Technology Citi

Mark Patterson SVP, Chief of Staff to Chair & CEO Cisco Systems

Frank Pedersen Partner Apply Digital

David Reilly Tech Executive

REGIONAL ADVISORY BOARD

Hermen Wegayehu | Chair SVP, Senior Information Security Officer Bank of America

Doug Barnes Vice President of Operations NETSCOUT

Jacqueline Bragg

NPOWER ALUMNI

REPRESENTATIVE Information Security Analyst Citi

Dana Branch Senior Vice President, AI Bank of America

Robert Elliot Senior Client Partner Nexient

Steven Guiliani Senior Engineering Analyst Citi

Diane Schwarz VP, Chief Information Officer Johnson Controls

Dwight D. Shepherd REAR ADMIRAL (RETIRED) Director, Federal Government Client Relations IBM

Anupam Singhal Senior Vice President and Business Head Tata Consultancy Services

Josh Sutton Chief Executive Officer Agorai

Peter Trizzino President Dell Technologies Select Sangy Vatsa Founder Digital Insights, LLC

Bertina Ceccarelli Chief Executive Officer NPower

Rashimi Jain CIO Careington International

Terry Jenkins NPOWER ALUMNI

REPRESENTATIVE IT Business Unit Sr Analyst Citi

Christopher Karp Director of Customer Service Chewy

Michael Lawson Senior Manager, Boeing Global Engagement Boeing

Bobbie Long SVP Digital Automation & Infrastructure Citi

Daniel Maslowski Global Head, Digital Automation & Infrastructure Citigroup

Ashley Neumeier Account Executive Optomi

Kris Norris Director of Strategic Partnership Kelly Services

Raymond Pitts Senior Vice President Data Center Migration Portfolio Manager Citigroup

Diane Schwarz

NATIONAL BOARD OF DIRECTORS MEMBER Chief Information Officer Johnson Controls

Adrian Silva Senior Managing Director of Workforce Development and Apprenticeships Dallas College

Brashanda Walker NPOWER ALUMNI REPRESENTATIVE Jr. Network Engineer Service Experts

Chris Young U.S. Global Fi Strategic Resourcing Lead WWT

Tresia Eaves SVP, Program Manager Citi

TECH FUNDAMENTALS

SPRING 2022 STATISTICS

The curriculum for this program includes a NetAcad learning module courtesy of the Cisco Networking Academy.

100% GOOGLE IT SUPPORT CERTIFICATION

NOUGNONSETON ADONON

U.S. ARMY SERVED 3 YEARS

JOB IN THE MILITARY Cargo Specialist

CANDRIAN ASUNCION

U.S. NAVY SERVED 7 YEARS

INTERNSHIP Citi Group

JOB IN THE MILITARY Hospital Corpsman, Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal

CHARLES BRISCOE

U.S. AIR FORCE

SERVED 6.5 YEARS

JOB IN THE MILITARY Vehicle

Maintenance Technician, 8th Logistics Readiness Squadron Airman of the Quarter, Served during Operation Iraqi Freedom

37%

FEMALE ENROLLED

95% VETERANS ENROLLED

Prior to NPower, served almost three years of active duty in the U.S. Army as a Cargo Specialist. After I finished my contract, I spent time thinking about my transitioning life, and I knew what I wanted to do next but not much about how to start my journey. noticed that the need for computer skills and literacy was crucial to stay relevant in the job market. I applied for several entry-level jobs at a help desk. Still, nobody was ready to give me an opportunity because I did not have the required certification and minimum experience. I came across the NPower website during my research and decided to explore the program. After further investigation of NPower, I discovered that the training program was exactly what I was looking for and more. I came into the NPower program without any technical skills and left with the knowledge as an IT fundamental student with certifications to show employers my worth. Thanks to NPower, I have the experience to begin my IT career, and am confident in my ability as an IT professional.

My parents wanted me to go to college after high school and that was the track I was on. After finishing my freshman year, I realized I wanted to do something bigger, so I went behind their backs and enlisted in the U.S. Navy. It will never be a decision I regret; the experiences I gained, the places I visited, and the people I met were once in a lifetime! Once I left the military, I began my college journey — this time more motivated than ever. I studied Finance and even had the opportunity to intern for one of the “big four” accounting firms; however, my passion for Finance as a career dissipated. After finishing school, I was fortunate enough to secure a job that provided me with a salary and benefits but… I wanted more than a job; I wanted a career! I came across NPower after reading the VA (Veterans Affairs) newsletter. It said “IT” and “free,” so I applied. I didn’t think I would get a spot but the very next day I was told got in! didn’t know it then but on February 22, 2022, the trajectory of my life would change. Thank you, NPower!

I joined the US Air Force after a year in college and played football. I was looking for something to do that would help me pay for college, and the Air Force was the best option. I served a little over six and a half years in the Air Force. I was stationed in California, Washington, Korea, and Italy. I was also deployed to Iraq during Iraqi Freedom. After discharge, I went to work in Djibouti, Africa for 4 years. I returned to the US in 2011 and began going to school. After college graduation, I worked in various fleet management roles in municipalities in Texas and Colorado. Those jobs were rewarding, but I did not have a passion for them. NPower has provided me with an opportunity to get into a field that am passionate about. I look forward to my new career in technology and the endless possibilities in this ever-changing career field.

FATIMA TSAV BRYANT

U.S. NAVY SERVED 3 YEARS

INTERNSHIP Citi

JOB IN THE MILITARY Boatswain Mate IRVING, TX

I joined the US Navy in March of 2019. I was recruited as a Boatswain mate, where most of my work was on the bridge of the Ship. This provided me with opportunities to be able to follow instructions to the core, pay attention to details, and at some point, prove my leadership skills. As progressed, I found myself shouldering greater responsibilities of supervising larger and more complex teams and equipment. I contributed to the safety and success of those around me. These skills set has set me up for success I must say, from discipline to paying attention to details I believe these are qualities that are of value to any organization. I’m grateful to the military for that and more. NPower has been a solution and an answered prayer to navigate my way into Information Technology as I have always wanted to but had nothing that offers the kind of training and support that I received from this organization. I am very thankful for the opportunity, and I know the impact on me will last a lifetime.

JOSE CERVANTES

U.S. MARINE CORPS

SERVED 4 YEARS

INTERNSHIP Federal Reserve Bank

JOB IN THE MILITARY Infantry Rifleman

Before NPower, I served four years of active duty in the U.S. Marine Corps as an Infantry Rifleman. After active duty, I went back to school to pursue Criminal Justice as it was the closest thing to what I did in the military. After I completed my degree, applied to be part of the police force. I got offered a position, but I did not feel satisfied. I felt like I could do something more or bigger. I went back to school and started to pursue a computer science degree as I had a huge passion for tech ever since can remember.

After 2 years of being an adult and going to school full time and having a full-time job were taking a toll on me. I figured I had to do something quickly. I came across the NPower from a VA newsletter and decided to explore the program. After further investigation of NPower, I discovered that the training program was exactly what I was looking for and more. I got the opportunity to get started in my degree field while still attending school part-time and getting an internship with the Federal Reserve Bank. Thanks to NPower it restored peace and calm to my life journey.

JERMAIN COLLINS

U.S. AIR FORCE

SERVED 5.5 YEARS

INTERNSHIP NPower Internship Trainee

JOB IN THE MILITARY Air Traffic Control and Explosive Ordinance Disposal

Prior To NPower, I worked as an Airport Operations Coordinator for the City of Houston, I also worked for Apple as a Technical Support Specialist on Mac and IOS. Since becoming interested in technology and the way it’s changing things around us NPower popped up on my LinkedIn and I was excited about the opportunity to learn more! Not only did they offer training in the areas I was interested in they also provided Job Placement “ "Woo-hoo”, what a deal so I signed up and enjoyed every minute of it. The instructors were quite knowledgeable, and the Placement team and Professional Development Team really did a nice job with preparing everyone for the new Tech Job Roles I honestly want to tell everyone I know about NPower and the Success you can have by participating in the courses and job Placement. Unbelievable opportunity That I am truly grateful for, Thank NPower I now Feel EMPOWERED to do all Tech well some tech-savvy things at work.

MARIA CUEVAS

ARMY NATIONAL GUARD

SERVED 9 YEARS

INTERNSHIP Citi

JOB IN THE MILITARY 68W Health Care Specialist, Combat Medic

Prior to NPower, I was on a Covid relief mission full time with the Army National Guard traveling through Texas to administer free Covid testing and vaccines to the public. I came across the NPower program through a coworker. I came into the NPower program without any technical skills and left with certifications in the IT field. I look forward to exploring jobs in the IT profession and thank NPower for giving me a starting point.

JATERIA DAVIS MILITARY SPOUSE:

U.S. NAVY

INTERNSHIP Citibank Enterprise, Infrastructure, Operations, and Technology

GLENN DELOSTRICO

U.S. AIR FORCE

SERVED 11 YEARS

INTERNSHIP Citi Group

JOB IN THE MILITARY Munitions

Before starting NPower, was following a very narrow path toward a healthcare career. Life challenges left me unable to complete my degree and very discouraged. I could have given up, but I decided to focus on the lessons I had learned along the way: Tenacity, Empathy, and Ingenuity. I discovered NPower while searching through the Dallas County Community College course catalog for classes that I could take to learn about technology. I was so grateful to see that military spouses were included in the program since I was struggling to find affordable education options. NPower has truly changed my life. They have equipped me with invaluable technical training and transformed my professional presence through networking opportunities and seminars. They have given me the confidence to reach for opportunities that I previously never thought were possible. I greatly look forward to using the amazing skills NPower has provided me. I am forever grateful.

When I joined the Air Force right after high school, did not know what I wanted to do with my life. 9/11 had just happened and with a lack of direction and options, The decision was so impulsive that I shipped out for training in 3 days. I wanted to make that a career, but I didn't see what was coming after eleven years of service and dedication. I got hurt and was honorably and medically discharged. I tried various occupations from construction, hospitality, retail, and sales. found various successes in each of those industries, but it was not enough, I wanted more. My biggest success story is in sales but during Covid, I had a sort of manifest destiny and found myself wanting to try out a different career path. One that involved my hobbies in computers and electronics. Two years later I found NPower. With their help, I was able to get my Coursera certifications in IT Support and Project Management. Recently, I passed my ITF+ and am on track of getting my A+. For the first time, I feel like I finally made a decision that is not based on impulse.

MAMADOU DIENG

36

U.S. NAVY SERVED 8 YEARS HOUSTON, TX

I would like to thank NPOWER for allowing me to participate in this great program. I have been working full-time and going to school full-time since I got out of the Navy. I was fortunate enough to land a job in the civilian sector as a medical assistant, then switch to the IT department as a credentialed trainer where I get to collaborate with IT analysts and always knew that I would like to grow in the IT field either as a software analyst or network security. When I moved to Texas, I signed up for Work-Life Veterans of Texas where they sent me information regarding NPower, and I automatically seized the opportunity to start my IT career. I am looking forward to beginning my journey with these new skills and continuing to develop and grow in my career.

AARON DRISDALE

U.S. NAVY SERVED 10 YEARS

INTERNSHIP Citi

JOB IN THE MILITARY Electronic Technician

Prior to NPower, my professional career was scattered across several different industries. I served 10 years in the U.S. Navy as an Electronic Technician. After an honorable discharge, I served 8 years as a Police Officer in the Dallas area. I then left the police force (on good terms) to work for the U.S. Postal Service. During my time with the post office, the covid pandemic caused a major change in my household finances and threatened the well-being of my family. It was during this time that I received an email for the NPower training. After my research, I believed that NPower was the program I needed to gain the skills for a career change in the world of IT. While at NPower, I gained confidence that I could be successful in I.T., as the skills I need to be a desired candidate. Thanks to NPower, my new career is off to a great start.

KATHERINE GARCIA

U.S. ARMY SERVED 4 YEARS

JOB IN THE MILITARY Automated Logistics Specialist

Prior to NPower, served four years of active duty in the U.S. Army as an Automated Logistics Specialist. After active duty, I spent time finishing my bachelor’s degree at the University of Texas in San Antonio. After graduation, I worked as a Contract Specialist closing out contracts for the Air Force. I moved on to become a Contract Administrator for Oracle for almost 5 years. After being laid off, I decided to transition to a career in the IT field. This led to my first attempt at completing my A+ certification. My first attempt was not successful, but I searched for an opportunity to try again. Shortly after getting back into the workforce, I discovered NPower. After browsing the website and noticing the programs that were being offered, I decided to apply.

I came into the NPower program with minimal technical skills and left confident that I have the knowledge to begin my IT career. Thanks to NPower for the opportunity and training; I am confident in my ability as an IT professional. I thank NPower for my second chance at a new beginning!

PRAPTI RAI GIRI MILITARY SPOUSE:

U.S. ARMY

INTERNSHIP Citi Bank

Before starting NPower, I was unable to build a career as I was confused with so many changes in my life. Being in a new country, pregnant, learning a new culture, and language, and how to build a sound career, all of which have been very challenging for me in many aspects. have been to many consultancies and job agencies, but none of them have been helpful to me. Then a few veteran friends of my husband’s suggested NPower. I am glad that I am a military spouse and blessed to be here at NPower as it has groomed not only my technical skills but also my professional skills and ignited my passion to learn more in the tech field. The counseling from social support has been very helpful for me to balance my personal and professional life. I have always been interested in technology and NPower has given me networking opportunities and hands-on learning. I look forward to obtaining additional certifications and pursuing a professional full-time IT career after completing my apprenticeship at CITI Bank.

JOHNNIE HODGES

U.S. AIR FORCE

SERVED 9 YEARS

JOB IN THE MILITARY Electrical Systems Craftsman, Air Force Achievement Medal for Outstanding Achievement, Air Force Good Conduct Medal, Air Force Iraqi Freedom Decoration

I am a US Air Force Veteran currently with an associate degree in Applied Science in Mechanical & Electrical Technology. I have over 25 years of experience as an Electrical Systems Technician and Electrical Systems Training Instructor. I bring extensive technical, business, and project management skills to emerging teams, including programmable logic controls (PLCs), automation, robotics, photo inspection systems, and electronic, sensory, and intrusion detection systems. I hold a Certificate in Project Management from Southern Methodist University and currently training in the IT Fundamentals course with NPower. I am grateful that I came across NPower as they helped propel my technical, professional, and leadership career in a positive direction.

BRITTANY HOLMES

U.S. ARMY RESERVE

SERVED 4 YEARS

INTERNSHIP Citi

JOB IN THE MILITARY Petroleum Supply Specialist

I joined the United States Army Reserves while in my sophomore year of college. I joined to not only serve my country, but at the time I also needed assistance to pay for college as well. However, while in the military, I gained and learned valuable lessons that I could use in the civilian world. The teamwork, commodore, and leadership skills I gained helped me on my journey to graduating college and entering the corporate world. So, in 2022, after muchneeded self-reflection and life presented me with great obstacles, I decided to take my career by the hand and figure out how I could start my career in tech. I did a quick Google search to find programs that would assist me with my transition and that is when I came across NPower. I have learned so much and I have gained so much knowledge. I am looking forward to being a part of the CITI apprenticeship and putting to use what I have learned with NPower.

CHRISTOPHER HUDSON

U.S. ARMY SERVED 7 YEARS

INTERNSHIP Citibank

JOB IN THE MILITARY Petroleum Supply Specialist, Truck Driver, Honorable Discharged, Good Conduct Medal, Army Medal of Accommodation

Prior to NPower, I served in the U.S. Army for 7 years as a Petroleum Supply and Truck Driver. After active duty, I spent time working in customer service for the last 15 years in the management field for various companies. Currently, where I work now, the company moved their customer service to El Salvador and Belize. They informed me that my job will not be shipped off; that was a red flag for me. When one of my agents informed me of NPower, I jumped in with both feet at the opportunity; she is a veteran as well. This was the opportunity I needed to do something other than just customer service. I came to NPower with minimal computer experience and left with a brand-new opportunity in a field of IT that I would never imagine myself being in. I am eternally grateful to the entire staff of NPower for sharing the knowledge and educating me in this new chapter in my life.

TADDY HUGHES MILITARY SPOUSE

CHOICELLE JACKSON

U.S. AIR FORCE

SERVED 8 YEARS

Before starting NPower, I was working as a Patient Care Technician for Texas Health Medical Center and pursuing my bachelor’s degree at Texas Woman’s University. My husband is a Military Veteran and a graduate of NPower. He encouraged me to join the program and I’m grateful that military spouses are included in the program. I have always had an interest in learning technology so, my decision to join NPower was a no-brainer even though this is a career shift for me. I strongly believe that IT has a lot to offer, including numerous job opportunities, competitive salaries, and most importantly work-life balance. NPower has given me the skills and hands-on training to jump-start my Information Technology career. With my IT Fundamentals (ITF+) certification and the knowledge that I have acquired from this awesome program, I’m looking forward to starting my tech career and obtaining a full-time position.

INTERNSHIP CITI in Enterprise E-Com Archive Management, Digital Communications, and Investigation Services

JOB IN THE MILITARY Airfield Management Specialist, Letter of Commendation, Airman of the Year

After graduating high school, a year early, I attended a 2-year program in Mortuary Science. At 17 years old, I was the youngest person to ever attend that school and only the second person in my family to attend college. To my dismay, Mortuary Science paid very little, so I joined the military at age 19. I served my country until 1997. After the military, I worked in a series of dead-end jobs for many years until I discovered IT in 1997. My love for IT eventually led me to pursue a bachelor’s degree in IT Management, then a master’s degree in Cybersecurity. In February 2022, I happened upon a VA newsletter that stated, “Free computer training for vets”. This piqued my interest, so I applied. NPower has not only allowed me to become more confident in my IT skills but has afforded me a wonderful apprenticeship opportunity with Citigroup.

FAITH JOINER

U.S. ARMY SERVED 8 YEARS

JOB IN THE MILITARY 68W Combat Medic Specialist, 92Y Unit Supply Specialist

EUELALIA LARSEN 31 MILITARY SPOUSE

ROBERT LARSEN

RET.

U.S. NAVY

SERVED 24 YEARS

Prior to joining NPower, I was a Combat Medic and Supply Specialist in the United States Army for eight years. After leaving the active military, I worked in a variety of medical care professions, where I realized that computer literacy and computer skills were essential for staying competitive in the labor market. During my study, I learned about the NPower program from two graduates who had completed it and chose to learn more about it. After doing additional research into NPower, I learned that the training program provided what I needed and more. I entered the NPower program with no technical expertise and left with the knowledge and experience necessary to start my IT career. NPower and on-the-job training are to thank for this.

Before NPower, I was unable to build a professional career as I did not finish a c college degree. I believed gaining a degree was a great way to a better opportunity and a better career. I started my job experience in the food invested most of my time into my son while in the service industry and the medical manufacturing field. I took a break and invested most of my time into my son while running an e-commerce small business, promoting / advertising products on social media platforms. Since then, I have had a strong interest in it. world. I am a military veteran spouse, and my husband discovered this great program “NPower” in a veteran affairs newsletter, this program is a great opportunity for all military veterans and their spouses who want to transition and pursue a career in it given this opportunity, I was able to gain more knowledge, new skills, get professional development and obtain certificates. I look forward to starting my IT career, applying what I have learned, and better outcomes.

JOB IN THE MILITARY Lead inspector for Commander Naval Beach Group inspecting ships, groups, and sailors to meet criteria for deployments. Before that, was Port Operations Officer in Naval Base Bahrain, running country clearances, and coordinating supplies and logistics for all US and NATO ships. Prior to that, was the Recruiter in Charge of a Large station in Salem Oregon, which greatly contributed to the district’s recognition as #1 in the Nation.

After my time in the military ended, I attended college to get my bachelor’s in business management. I applied for many jobs during this time and one email caught my eye about learning in the I.T. field for free in a VA news e-letter. I saw this situation as a possible opportunity of a lifetime — Free… plus IT…jackpot! This could be the opportunity to use my brain vs brawn. After a quick phone call and interview, my wife and I were accepted into the program. Ever since I started the program, I have never regretted it.

The instructors are awesome and take the time to make sure you understand the project / topic. This further validated and solidified all my thoughts about the mystery of information technology. I am very grateful for this pathway that I was looking for and continue to go down. I’m going forward with confidence in my ability, knowledge, and network of peers.

TRINIDAD, TX

MCKINNEY, TX

PORFIRIO LOPEZ

U.S. ARMY RESERVE

SERVED 11 YEARS

JOB IN THE MILITARY Track Vehicle

Repairer, Drill Sergeant. I trained over 500 recruits in Army Basic Combat Training. also received Drill Sergeant of the Cycle in 2019.

JENNIFER LUU MILITARY SPOUSE:

U.S. AIR

FORCE

INTERNSHIP Cit

JEREMY ISAIH MATHIS

U.S. AIR FORCE

SERVED 8 YEARS

JOB IN THE MILITARY Security Forces, Outstanding Airman Award

DAVID MAYHAND

U.S. MARINE CORPS

SERVED 8 YEARS

JOB IN THE MILITARY Marine Aviation Logistics

I joined the military two years after finishing common core classes at Tarrant County College in Fort Worth, TX. never really had a set career wanted to achieve, but thought the Army would help me find my way. After two years away from school, I returned home and used my GI Bill to finish my schooling. I received my bachelor’s and master’s degrees from UT Arlington. I studied Spanish and worked translation jobs in law offices and government contractors in Dallas, TX. I enjoyed working those jobs for the majority, but I always felt there was something else bigger than me that I needed to accomplish. After trying out a career in law enforcement that I failed in, I didn’t know what step I would take next until spoke with another friend who was a drill sergeant in my same unit; he had gone through the NPower program and was working as an intermediatelevel IT specialist with Citibank. I was always interested in computers and technology since I was young, but I never attempted any formal training.

Before NPower, I struggled to build a career as a military spouse and a new mom in a low-income household after my husband separated from the military during the pandemic. I heard about NPower through Hire Heroes USA and applied to the program because it was just what I believed would get me into the technology industry. From the NPower program, I’ve learned a lot about IT and project management. I earned industry certifications, gained networking opportunities, built on my skills in professional development, and grew the confidence that I needed to break through imposter syndrome. I would like to thank the NPower Texas staff for this amazing opportunity to better myself as an individual and professionally. I am very grateful to NPower for changing my life in better ways than I imagined.

I joined the US Air Force one year after high school. At 18, I had my doubts about entering DeVry College at the time, so I decided to apply to serve my country from 2011 until 2019 as a Security Force. After my time in the military ended, had a hard time looking for a job. While in distort and trying to turn things in my life around, I came across NPower through my brother and his wife. At first, I had doubts about it because how can a program like NPower be completely free? I’ve always had an interest in computers and technology, and I saw it as a learning experience and as something that I can build upon. Ever since I started the program, I have met great people and classmates and learned so much from each mentor and everyone involved. struggled in the course due to work and life, but they never regretted helping me or saving me from giving up. I am thankful that I came across NPower as they helped me get started in my career and helped answer my prayers.

32

U.S. ARMY VETERAN

SERVED 4 YEARS STAFFORD, VA

INTERNSHIP Cit SAMUEL NYARKO

PATRICIA PAUL

57 MILITARY SPOUSE:

U.S. MARINE CORP

SERVED 30 YEARS

I joined the US Marine Corps at the age of 19, attended a year and a half of college before deciding to join the military. My occupation in the military was Marine Aviation Logistics. was informed by a military buddy about the NPower Program that was providing training in the IT sector since I enjoy technology, I researched and learned this was a completely free training program and immediately started to question it but ultimately decided to apply. I have gained information on technology I never knew existed and some that refreshed what I knew. I am glad I had the opportunity to experience this extended learning of technology.

Before enrolling in NPower, I was about to finish my contract in the military (Army), so I was thinking about a school or short course I will not use my GI bill, so I discussed this with a friend of mine, and he introduced me to NPower. I decided to make a career in the IT field with no experience, that can better my career and life. And what interested me most in the NPower training is that they help you with CompTIA certification and job placement. I would like to thank the NPower Dallas TX staff for this wonderful opportunity to better myself as an individual.

Prior to starting at NPower, I worked as a Registered Nurse. As a military spouse, I followed my Marine Corp Husband for around 25 Years. Being a military spouse has been very rewarding. I discovered NPower through my neighbor Mr. J Pride. I had been talking about a change in careers and computing has always been in my mind. I have always loved technology and was extremely excited to hear there was a program called NPower, that helps Military, Veterans, and spouses, giving them the opportunity to learn and become tech certified. I came into NPower with no technical background or training, but I will leave with a new career! I am very grateful to NPower and all the donors and companies that make it possible. I am excited to start this new path in my life in IT. After graduation, I will be starting an apprenticeship with Citibank. Thank you, NPower, for making a dream a possibility!

PATRICK W PARKER

U.S. ARMY

QUENTIN PARKER

B.O.S: U.S. AIR FORCE

SERVED 2 YEARS

I joined the US Army as 13 Bravo Cannon Crewman Active Duty Army from 1986 to 1989 right after high school. I did not have the financial resources to attend college, so enlisted. After my Honorable discharge, I started college and graduated from Stephen F Austin with a degree in accounting. After working in accounting for several years I obtained my MBA from the University of Dallas with a concentration in Database Administration in 1999. Unfortunately, my employers do not help with technical / IT training. As my technical training is over two decades old when read in the VA monthly newsletter about the NPower technical training program, I was extremely excited. I am very thankful for NPower and the opportunity to advance my IT (Information Technology) skills and professional opportunities.

Prior to NPower, I served two years of active duty in the U.S. Air Force as Security Forces. Once I left the military I moved back to my small town in Virginia, and I realized there wasn’t any growth in that town for me. I packed up again and moved all the way to Austin Tx. I became a full-time personal trainer and track and field coach. I was happy but I still felt like I was missing something. Austin is becoming the new tech capital and I felt like I wasn’t up to the times. I decided to make a career change once again and I found NPower. I couldn’t believe there was a program that would change my life completely. My time in NPower was so amazing it really opened my eyes to a new perspective in tech. I would have never thought I could accomplish something like this before. Having a team that believes in you really makes a difference. The sky is the limit I can’t wait to see all I can accomplish in this new field. After graduation, I Plan on continuing my education, while learning more about cybersecurity. I can’t stop now the journey has just begun.

VANESSA PARKER

MILITARY SPOUSE:

U.S. AIR FORCE

INTERNSHIP Citi

Before starting NPower, I was in the life of Sales and Customer Service, and I was not fulfilled in my career path. I was introduced to NPower through a friend / co-worker of mine who was going through the program at the start of COVID. Not keeping up with his journey, I remember him announcing via social media that he started a new career in Tech. In a casual conversation, he brought up the program again and that he believes Military Spouses were able to join as well. He directed me to the website, and I applied the same day. Here I am now writing my journey experience with this amazing program! I always felt a pull towards Tech and even more so in the last 5 years. I just didn’t know where to start! Upon being accepted, I was reading over the course objectives and syllabus I knew this journey would be life changing. With my new skills, I look forward to growing within the field and NPower was the door that was opened for me to do so.

JOSE PUTNAM

34 U.S. MARINE CORPS

JOB IN THE MILITARY Infantryman DALLAS, TX

I joined the Marine Corps in August of 2007. I enlisted as an 0311 infantryman and served 4 years earning a combat action ribbon while deployed to Afghanistan. Prior to joining the Marine Corps, I had always had a passion for technology. I remember as a boy playing on my parents’ Dell desktop which was running Windows 95 at the time. I wanted to learn everything there was about computers. I first applied for NPower classes in 2019. I applied for classes but was unable to attend due to time constraints. Now after a knee surgery from my time in Afghanistan, knew I could be in a position where I am on my feet for 8+ hours. Remembering NPower and how they help veterans achieve their tech goals is the reason I came back to this program. During my time in NPower, I have achieved several I.T. certifications as well as working towards 2 more by the time this course ends. I can finally realize my dream of working in I.T. and apply what I learn in this cohort to a career I can be proud of and not only proud of but passionate about.

O'NELL JEFFERSON RAYNES JR.

U.S. MARINE CORPS

SERVED 4 YEARS

INTERNSHIP Citi Group

JOB IN THE MILITARY 1st Supply Battalion, 1st Marine Logistic Group NCO

I had been working full-time at IBM in San Jose, CA, and going to school full-time at De Anza College in Cupertino, CA. However, IBM was downsizing, and I was laid off in 2000. I decided to move to Chicago, IL to my father for a fresh start. I joined the United States Marine Corps in 2001 the day after my 23rd birthday. I recently graduated from the University of Texas at Dallas with a bachelor’s degree in criminology administration of Justice in 2019 right before the COVID-19 Pandemic, while in the process of looking for a job, my uncle passed away last year from COVID-19, so I moved from Texas to California to assist my grandmother because he was taking care of her. I came into the NPower program without any technical skills and left with the knowledge and experience to begin my IT Career. Thanks to NPower and the on-the-job experience I gained from my internship. I want to thank NPower for the IT professional career head start.

ALFREDO REYES

U.S. MARINE CORPS

SERVED 19 YEARS

INTERNSHIP Citi Group

JOB IN THE MILITARY C-130 Power Line Technician, Publications Manager 4 Good Conduct Medals, 2 Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medals. We upgraded over 1100 publication manuals from paper to digital. Trained 26+ CTPL representatives. Performed quarterly, annual, and special audits.

I was born in Mexico and came to the USA in 1981 where I would later graduate high school/college in 1991/1993. decided to serve my country from 1996 until 2015 as an Electrical Engineer/C-130 Power Plants Technician. Finally earned my MBA in 2017. While looking for a better job with less stress on my body, I came across NPower. I started the program in February 2022. I have a love for technology and have taken some classes in the past. I am grateful for the free program thanks to our sponsors/donors. am learning about innovative technology and increasing my professional network connections. The staff were great as they helped me learn so much in a short amount of time. I am thankful that I came across NPower as they helped me start my IT career.

PAUL RODRIGUEZ

U.S. ARMY

SERVED 14 YEARS

JOB IN THE MILITARY Aviation Resource Management Journeyman Combat Medic & Practical Nurse, Meritorious Service Medal, Presidential Unit Citation, ARCOMx5, AAMx6

CHRISTOPHER SMITH

U.S. ARMY

SERVED 15 YEARS

JOB IN THE MILITARY Signal Support Systems NCO

BIJAY SYANGBO

U.S. ARMY VETERAN

SERVED 4.5 YEARS

DIRECT HIRE Infosys, Software Developer

JOB IN THE MILITARY 92Y Supply Specialist

EUGENE THOMPSON

U.S. ARMY VETERAN

SERVED 2 YEARS

JOB IN THE MILITARY Artillery Mechanic

KURT VOGEL

U.S. ARMY

SERVED 4 YEARS

INTERNSHIP Citibank

JOB IN THE MILITARY Company Commander, Parachutist

RASHEDA WALKER

U.S. ARMY RESERVE

CURRENTLY SERVING

INTERNSHIP Citi

JOB IN THE MILITARY 42A, Human Resources Specialist

Prior to NPower, I served fourteen years of active duty in the U.S. Army as a Combat Medic and Licensed Practical Nurse. I decided after serving that I needed a career change that would allow for a better work-life balance and me to spend time with my two small children as they grow. I have always had a fascination for computers and electronics as a youth and some rudimentary computer knowledge. Also, my background in medicine and wanting to fix things saw NPower as a natural fit and an opportunity to gain technical skills that would allow me to explore a career in Information Technology. NPower has allowed me to gain the necessary skills and basic knowledge to make me marketable and excel in my new role as an IT professional. This program has ignited a desire in me to continue to explore and enhance my IT knowledge and is only the beginning. Thank you, NPower!

I joined the U.S. Army in 2006 after completing 2 years of college at the University of Houston, at the time I did not have the funds to continue with school, so I joined the military. While in the military I traveled the world, and I was able to obtain my Associate, Bachelor, and master’s degree in Homeland Security. While going into my 16th year of Army service I decided that I wanted to be more prepared for when retire and leave the military behind, so I reached out to a friend of mine, and she told me about the NPower program. I’ve done IT my entire military career and I was very excited about what I learned about the NPower program. Since I started the program, I have never regretted my decision to join the program. The staff and instructors are amazing, and they bend over backward to take care of each and every person that is in the NPower program. I am so thankful for NPower and how they have helped me and other veterans to start a career in the IT field.

My name is Bijay Syangbo, and I live in Fort Worth Texas. I am a US Army Veteran, i.e. I served in the Army for 4.5 years as a supply specialist. Right Now, I am enrolled in the NPower IT fundamental tech program. I graduated from McNeese State University in Dec. 2014 with a bachelor’s degree in general studies. I love technology and like to explore new things about computers and technology.

I joined the U.S. Army in 2009 when I was 21. I severed for 2 years as an Artillery Mechanic. So, after my time in the military, I went to a Trade College named Everest to be a commercial electrician for 6 years. I didn't want to do that for the rest of my life and wanted to change my career. I reshared veteran tech programs to help find my start in the IT field. NPower Help me do just that, I had no IT experience and basic computer knowledge. I've been thankful to the team of people that didn’t give up on me when I had family problems during school. They helped me get through a really tuff time in my life. Thank you so much NPower you helped me find a new purpose in life and I will never forget NPower and the wonderful team to keep pushing me.

After leaving the Army went to business school, then worked at various jobs in the US before going to Japan. I was in the Japanese cement industry, purchasing coal and chartering ships, but after 25 years returned to the US, where I operated a small business. My wife wanted to move back to Japan, and my son wanted to attend a Japanese university, so they moved, and I prepared to follow them. Unfortunately, while waiting for a visa, the Covid panic hit, and I was unable to travel. Next, my wife passed away, leaving me stranded here and unemployed at retirement age. When I heard about NPower, it sounded too good to be true, but guess what; it’s for real. Not only did I get a chance to earn several tech certifications for absolutely free, but excellent job-search support (not to mention moral support).

As a result, I was (shockingly to me) offered a high-paying job in a completely new career path starting a month before I turn 67.

Before joining the NPower program, I was facing the most difficult period of my life. There seemed to be nowhere to go but up. recognized the need to obtain skills training to overcome many personal challenges, including homelessness, unemployment, and the need for personal support. This program gave me hope when things looked the most difficult for me by providing not only the technical instruction, but social support needed to continue the program. The most transformational lesson I learned through this process is it is ok to be a beginner at something because you can continue to learn. That is life-changing. In a few weeks, I will now have new skills, certifications, and an opportunity to learn in a way that is invaluable to me through an apprenticeship. I came to this program as a complete beginner in IT and am now moving forward gaining experience to start a new career. With my new skills, I plan to continue to learn everything I can during my apprenticeship with the goal of obtaining a full-time career in a specialized field, then moving on to advanced training.

KEVIN WHITE 23 U.S. AIR FORCE

SERVED 4 YEARS

INTERNSHIP ITexas Instruments

JOB IN THE MILITARY Aerospace & Operational Physiology Journeyman, 7 month tour in South Korea, 5 month tour in Fairford, England.

Before I learned about NPower, I served four years of active duty as an Aerospace and Operational Physiology technician. I knew that after the military I wanted to start a promising career doing something that I feel would truly give me purpose. A few months before my final out, my father educated me on what type of organization NPower is and how they could get me started in learning IT. After hearing that it was free for veterans I enrolled in the program, and it was the best decision that I could have made at this point in my life. There are endless avenues in the world of IT, and I am excited to find out which one I am most passionate about.

RODNEY WILLIAMS U.S. ARMY / MARINE CORPS VETERAN

SERVED 20 YEARS

INTERNSHIP Citi Bank

JOB IN THE MILITARY Generator Mechanic

After graduating from High School, I decided to join the Marine Corps. Being seventeen at the time, serving my country was a big decision in my life. After staying out of service over ten years later I found myself back in the military. Now I wanted to get into the IT field, so after a few weeks of getting out of the Army I found out about the NPower program. I found out about it from the recruiter at the unemployment office, and after signing up found the training to be very helpful and beneficial. can’t wait to start my career in this exciting field.

ROBERT YOAS U.S. AIR FORCE

Before I started my NPower journey, I was a Culinary Arts Teacher that had been unemployed since 2019. I am a father of three and a 12-year of service US Air Force veteran in the field of weather. I happened across the NPower advertisement in the VA newsletter, and it was just the opportunity for a new career path that I had been hoping for. The program has been challenging, and rewarding, and only cost me my best effort. After certification, I plan on starting an internship / apprenticeship at a great partner company with a follow-on permanent position or fellowship with Salesforce. Now my career path is clear and impressive with unlimited upward mobility potential.

NICHOLAS JOSEPH DAT NGUYEN

CONGRATULATIONS!

TECH FUNDAMENTALS SPRING 2021

NOUGNONSETON ADONON

CANDRIAN ASUNCION

CHARLES BRISCOE

FATIMA TSAV BRYANT

JOSE CERVANTES

JERMAIN COLLINS

MARIA CUEVAS

JATERIA DAVIS

GLENN DELOSTRICO

MAMADOU DIENG

AARON DRISDALE

KATHERINE GARCIA

PRAPTI RAI GIRI

JOHNNIE HODGES

BRITTANY HOLMES

CHRISTOPHER HUDSON

TADDY HUGHES

CHOICELLE JACKSON

FAITH JOINER

NICHOLAS JOSEPH

EUELALIA LARSEN

ROBERT LARSEN

PORFIRIO LOPEZ JR.

JENNIFER LUU

JEREMY ISAIH MATHIS

DAVID MAYHAND

DAT NGUYEN

SAMUEL NYARKO

PATRICK PARKER

QUENTIN PARKER

VANESSA PARKER

PATRICIA PAUL

JOSE PUTNAM

O'NELL JEFFERSON RAYNES JR

ALFREDO REYES

PAUL RODRIGUEZ

CHRISTOPHER SMITH

BIJAY SYANGBO

EUGENE THOMPSON

KURT VOGEL

RASHEDA WALKER

KEVIN WHITE

RODNEY WILLIAMS

ROBERT YOAS

WATCH THE RECORDING npower.org/graduation/spring2022

LAUNCHING TECH CAREERS. TRANSFORMING LIVES.

NPower’s model is a solution to building a diverse tech pipeline. Our graduates launch tech jobs with an average starting salary of $41,000–$60,000 and are positioned to advance their career path, enabling them to earn more than their peers in lower-wage jobs. Higher earning potential is the key to breaking generational cycles of poverty, positioning our students and their families to achieve long-term economic success.

WE ARE THE FUTURE OF WORK

Through partner and tech industry collaboration, our free training model is a workforce development solution for the future. In today’s economy, over 50% of all jobs require some degree of technology and digital skill. We prepare untapped, diverse talent to fill the number of technology-oriented jobs that will increase in the U.S. to 13 million by 2025, according to a recent Microsoft Data Science report that estimates that digital job capacity. Our graduates of over 4,000 veterans and young adults are hired at over 2000 companies and nonprofits as interns and full-time employees.

NPower is on a mission to create pathways to economic prosperity by launching digital careers for young adults and military veterans from underserved communities.

Part of this goal is our ‘40 by 22’ initiative, which aims to advance more young women of color in tech careers. This initiative is supported by the Citi Foundation’s Pathways to Progress initiative.

› Of students who enroll graduate

› Of alumni get jobs or continue their education

THANK YOU...

TO OUR FUNDERS

Bank of America

BBVA

Boeing

BravoTech

Capital One

Celanese Foundation

Craig and Kathryn Hall Foundation

Cognizant

DFW Jobs

Fluor

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Hillcrest Foundation

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King Foundation

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May & Stanley Smith Charitable

Trust

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Northrop Grumman

Perot Foundation

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United Way

USAA

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Workforce Solutions Dallas

WWT

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TWC

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The Ramesh and Kalpana Bhatia

Family Foundation

Texas Veterans Commission

TVC

US House of Representatives

TO OUR EMPLOYMENT PARTNERS

Beacon Hill Preparatory Institute

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Virtual Tech Gurus

AND TO OUR VOLUNTEERS

Bank of America

Robert Ekuribe

NPOWER ALUMNI

BravoTech

Kurt Scholl

Citi

Bobbie Long

Michael Fugett

NPOWER ALUMNI

Citi Group

Rebecca Moss

John Eydenberg

EY

Luke Lively

NPOWER ALUMNI

Globant

Robert Elliot

James Patterson

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GM Financial

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Kelly Services

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Life Blue

Russel Dubree

LinkedIn

Romero Nelson

Mohawk Kind

Nellson Burns

MTX

Angela Georgiades

SIM-DFW

Doug Zahniser

SPGlobal

Reed Defever

Stefanini

Josh Lewis

Texas Instruments

TaKendra Elbert

USAA

Gayathri Kaligotla

Christal Lawrence

John Hulett

Virtual Tech Gurus

Ric Darquea

Votum Technologies

Mark Reynolds

Wells Fargo

Daney Forbes (Alumni)

WWT

Guy McDonald

Septimus Oglivie

PATHWAY BUILDERS

Pathway Builders are individual donors invested in the future of our country and changing lives for military veterans and young adults from underserved communities. To learn more about Pathway Builders or to join this group of changemakers, please visit npower.org/support or email hello@npower.org.

Ronald & Cynthia Gula

Charitable Fund

Tim Brien

Dean Del Vecchio

Mike Elmore

Gail Fierstein

Matt Horner

Stephen Murphy

Christopher Perry

Daniel Petrozzo

David Reilly

Julie Sweet

Peter Trizzino

SUPPORTERS

Mahir B AbdalRazzaaqEl

James Alcombright

Robert Anselmo

Linda Apsley

Jack Azagury

Peter Benzie

The Ramesh and Kalpana

Bhatia Family Foundation

Michael Blumstein

Brian Bohan

Chad Bope

James Carey

Steve Cass

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Paul Daugherty

Anthony DeLisio

Richard DePalma

Bruce Derr

Anthony DiSanto

Darcy Down

FRIENDS

Noreen Fierro

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Leif King

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Viola Maxwell-Thompson

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Brian Mize

Hunter Muller

Joe Murphy

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Frank Pedersen

Greg Raimann

Michael D Robinson

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Diana Scott

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James Smith

Joel Spieth

Harold & Diane Steuber

Nicole Tate

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Rex Thexton

Cliff Thomas

Rah Thomas

Joel Unruch

Alphonse Valbrune

Robert Vaughn

Chris Wegmann

Casey Wells

Crystal White

Pete Agresta

Guillermo Diaz, Jr.

Diane Gherson

Candace Givens

Mark Heil

Debra King

Jennifer Kleinert

James Linnett

Tristan Morel L’Horset

Harry Moseley

Larry Quinlan

Diane Schwarz

Ellyn Shook

Einat Burshtine

Benjamin Ciaglo

Allison Crady

Amy Heydman

NPOWER SUPPORTERS

UNDERWRITERS | $750K+

SPONSORS | $250K+

PARTNERS | $100K+

AHEAD

Andreessen Horowitz

Atlas Data Systems

Beth & Ravenel Curry Foundation

Bloomberg Philanthropies

Centene Charitable Foundation

Check Point Software Technologies

Corteva Agriscience

SUPPORTERS | $50K+

The Achelis & Bodman Foundation

ADP Foundation

Ascension Information Services

Auth0

Baltimore Nonprofit Relief Fund

Blue Data

Carl B. & Florence E. King Foundation

Centene Corporation

The Centene Charitable Foundation

Craig Newmark Philanthropies

Dennis M. Jones Family Foundation

Emerson

Ernst & Young

Fiserv

Global Leadership Forum

Hewlett Packard Company

Ira W. DeCamp Foundation

KPMG

Llewellyn Family Foundation

Maryland Apprenticeship

Innovation Fund

Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development

MTX Group Inc

NetApp

NETSCOUT

The New York Community Trust

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Patrick J McGovern Foundation

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Rocket Community Fund

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Tata Consultancy Services

Community Foundation of Southeast Michigan

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Elasticsearch

Flextronics International USA, Inc.

Fortinet

France-Merrick Foundation

Henry & Ruth Blaustein

Rosenberg Foundation

IBM

Infinidat

JobFirstNYC

Kaiser Permanente

Kirkland & Ellis

Light a Single Candle Foundation

LinkedIn Corporation

Mainline Information Systems

Mass Mutual Insurance Company

Medidata Solutions

Morgan Stanley

TECHNOLOGY PARTNERS FRIENDS

Motorola Solutions

New York City Council

Northrop Grumman Corporation

OneTen

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SAP

The Saigh Foundation

Shippy Foundation

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Twilio Inc

United Way of Greater St. Louis

U.S. Department of Homeland Security

Veterans’ Educational Assistance Program

West Baltimore Renaissance Foundation, Inc.

Workday Foundation

St. Louis Regional Business Council

Tanium Inc.

Texas Mutual Insurance Company

Vmware

Vodafone

The William R. Orthwein, Jr. Foundation, Inc.

Wilson Sheehan Foundation

Veritas Zoom

Thanks to our government partners, the U.S. Department of Labor, Maryland, New Jersey and New York Department of Labor.