NPower California Tech Fundamentals Fall 2019

california

#NPOWERGRADS

TECH FUNDAMENTALS FALL 2019

THURSDAY, JANUARY 16, 2020 | 6:00 PM – 8:30 PM

PALO ALTO NETWORKS

3200 TANNERY WAY BUILDING #3 | SANTA CLARA, CA 95054

FOLLOW TONIGHT’S EVENT @NPOWERORG AND POST YOUR OWN #NPOWERGRADS | #NPOWERCALIFORNIA

TECH FUNDAMENTALS  FALL 2019

GRADUATION PROGRAM WELCOME Christopher C. Starling, Executive Director, NPower California

ALUMNI SPEAKER Kyree Jordan NPower California, Networking Administration & Security Spring 2019 Network Systems Administrator, General Dynamics CLASS SPEAKER Catharine Dao NPower California, Tech Fundamentals Fall 2019

AWARDS NPOWER ACADEMIC EXCELLENCE AWARD

NPOWER LEADERSHIP AWARD

Christopher C. Starling, Executive Director, NPower California

Christopher C. Starling, Executive Director, NPower California

COMMENCEMENT SPEAKER Malcolm Palmore, Chief Security Officer, Palo Alto Networks

PROGRAM COMPLETION CERTIFICATE CEREMONY Corey Hashimoto, Recruitment and Admissions Manager, NPower California CLOSING REMARKS AND RECEPTION Christopher C. Starling

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COMMENCEMENT SPEAKER MALCOLM PALMORE

Chief Security Officer, Palo Alto Networks

MK Palmore serves as VP, Field CSO (Americas) for Palo Alto Networks.

His responsibilities include support of the initiatives headed up by the office of the global Chief Security Officer and continuing to provide thought leadership in the cybersecurity arena through both writing and speaking engagements. Prior to joining Palo Alto Networks, MK served as the Head of the Cyber Security Branch for FBI San Francisco capping a career of public service spanning 32-years. His leadership and investigative experiences while in the FBI included: Cybersecurity, Crisis Response/Management, Risk-Management Advisory Services, and Counter-Terrorism Investigations. MK’s cyber security certifications include the CISM, CISSP, GCCC and the Carnegie Mellon University CISO Certification. He earned a B.S. from the United States Naval Academy and an MBA from Pepperdine University where he currently serves as an adjunct instructor in the Information Systems Department for graduate studies. MK began his professional career as a commissioned officer in the U.S. Marine Corps.

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ALUMNI SPEAKER KYREE JORDAN

NPower California, Networking Administration & Security Spring 2019 Network Systems Administrator, General Dynamics

Growing up in East Point, Georgia was tough to say the least. I praise my mother for putting me in programs that shipped southern kids to northern schools. Because of this, I was able to see past my small city. It’s hard to reach for something you never knew was there. My older sister had joined the Navy as I was entering high school and told me nothing but positive things. So I signed up after I graduated high school and was in the Navy by 17.

While staying at a homeless shelter for veterans, I had a roommate that was going through NPower’s Tech Fundamentals training and had received an internship with Mozilla. I figured I’d give it a chance and applied to the Network Administration and Security course. I enjoyed every moment of training and each night couldn’t wait to go back. I loved the fact that veterans and young adults were helping to support each other’s success. After graduating and earning my Security+ certification, doors finally opened and I am currently working as a Network Systems Administrator for General Dynamics! Thank you NPower, you have a friend for life!

I never thought of myself as the college type but once my naval career was complete I knew I had to keep improving myself. I went back home and earned an Associates in General Information Technology from Georgia Military College and a BS in Informatics from Mercer University. In the midst of my college journey, I met my beautiful girlfriend “There is a space between man’s imagination and (from Oakland) and started a family. Once I graduated, man’s attainment that may only be traversed by his we decided it would be best to make the move to the Bay longing.”

Area. I was expecting doors to fly open for me being that I was a recent graduate with a strong GPA, however, it —Khalil Gibran didn’t work out that way. The same questions were asked as to whether I had experience or certifications. I knew I wanted to break into the tech field but just didn’t know which route to take.

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CLASS SPEAKER CATHERINE DAO

NPower California, Tech Fundamentals Fall 2019

“Our deepest fear is not that we are inadequate. Our deepest fear is that we are powerful beyond measure.”

—Marianne Williamson

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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.

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NATIONAL

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

CALIFORNIA

REGIONAL ADVISORY BOARD

David Reilly | Chair Chief Information Officer, Global Banking and Markets Bank of America

Thomas Knowlton Partner and Director of Corporate Practice TCC Group

Alicia Johnson Principal, Technology Transformation Ernst & Young

Sean Miner Head of User Experience (Global) QuinStreet

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

Viola Maxwell-Thompson President and CEO Information Technology Senior Management Forum (ITSMF)

Troy Johnson Managing Director, Western Regional Technology Deloitte

Kris Stadelman Director NOVA Workforce Board

Gail Fierstein | Secretary Head of People CaaStle

Ramana Murthy Magapu Vice President, Head of Banking and Financial Services, North America Tata Consultancy Services

Corey Marshall Director, Splunk4Good Splunk

Vittorio Cretella | Treasurer Principal VC Advisory Steven Ballantyne Vice President of Product Operations PowerSchool Dean Del Vecchio Executive Vice President, Chief of Operations and Chief Information Officer The Guardian Life Insurance Company of America Guillermo Diaz, Jr. Senior Vice President, Customer Transformation Cisco Systems Edward Fandrey Vice President of Financial Services, US Microsoft Mike Fey Chief Executive Officer Mesosphere Richard M. Greenbaum Managing Director, Global Head Technology Infrastructure Citi Debra King Senior Vice President and Chief Information Officer Corteva Agriscience

Sylvie Veilleux Chief Information Officer Dropbox

Stephen M. Murphy Financial Services Global Lead Accenture Frank Pedersen Managing Partner GoodScout Christopher J. Perry President, Global Sales, Marketing and Solutions Broadridge Financial Solutions Dan Petrozzo Venture Partner Oak Hill Capital/FT Larry Quinlan Global Chief Information Officer Deloitte Diane Schwarz Senior Vice President, Chief Digital and Information Officer Hunt Consolidated, Inc. Dwight D. Shepherd

REAR ADMIRAL (RETIRED)

President Dwight Shepherd Consulting Josh Sutton Chief Executive Officer Agorai Bertina Ceccarelli Chief Executive Officer NPower

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NPOWER CALIFORNIA

TECH FUNDAMENTALS FALL 2019 STATISTICS The curriculum for this program includes a NetAcad learning module courtesy of the Cisco Networking Academy.

71%

GRADUATION RATE

92%

CERTIFICATION RATE

25%

WOMEN

75%

BLACK / HISPANIC / ASIAN

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DIRECT PLACEMENT Murphy, McKay, & Associates

NAVEED AHMAD

While working in non-tech related jobs, I realized I had an interest in tech. I was referred to NPower by a friend, who explained a short-term way to reach my goals and begin a career in tech. The biggest reason to work in technology is the work itself. If you’re interested in being on the precipice of research, discovery, development, and innovation, there is likely no better industry, and NPower helped me make connections in the tech world. My favorite site visit was Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory. I want to continue my studies in tech to reach my goal of going into cybersecurity.

24, Fremont, CA

DIRECT PLACEMENT Astreya Before learning about NPower, I was a student at San Francisco State University. I found out about NPower through my university’s student veterans club. I wanted to pursue a career in the Bay Area’s tech industry, but I didn’t have formal training or experience in tech. NPower’s free IT training and paid internship sold me. Soon after, I decided to leave college and apply to NPower’s Tech Fundamentals program. Thanks to the awesome IT and professional development training that NPower has provided me, I’ve been able to pass two IT certification exams and land my first IT job.

MARCO ANTONIO

MARINE CORPS RESERVE Sunnyvale, CA DIRECT PLACEMENT Astreya

ROMMEL AQUINO

U.S. AIR FORCE San Francisco, CA

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Prior to NPower I proudly served nine years in the Air Force as a federal officer. I was a qualified sniper, law enforcement dispatcher, and certified defensive tactics instructor. After leaving the military, I decided to make the transition into the tech industry because I’ve always been drawn to working with and fixing computers. I’ve built many computers for friends and family and wanted to build off that hobby and turn it into a full-time career. What brought me to NPower was the training program, together with the opportunity to gain experience in tech and the sense of community.

As a veteran, I believe it’s important to surround myself with like-minded individuals, and the staff provided me with both the training and the right mindset to do what it takes to excel. My future goals in tech are to be an expert in my craft and pursue a career in cyber/network security as a front-end web developer.

PLACEMENT TBD

MARITZA BARRIOS 24, San Jose, CA

Before NPower, I was an independent contractor in the experiential marketing industry. I assisted production teams as an on-site events manager and represented organizations at high-profile events as a brand ambassador and promotional model. Having worked at trade shows in Silicon Valley and Las Vegas, I was exposed to IT innovations. I could not shake off my curiosity about technology, so when I discovered this incredible organization, I knew it would be an opportunity that I couldn’t pass up. As technology continues to evolve, I want to contribute, whether by becoming an engineer to develop a new solution or being a spokesperson sharing my journey of pursuing IT to inspire others. My favorite site visit was the Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory; the North Bay view from the facility was amazing, and the content covered in the tour was inspiring. I am hoping for a full-time position in the diversity and inclusion sector as well as getting involved in coordinating internal events.

PLACEMENT TBD After leaving the Army, I gained experience in technical support and consulting. I’ve developed skills in installation, migration, and maintenance of network operating systems, but I was always on the lookout for new opportunities. When I heard about NPower California’s updated Tech Fundamentals program, I jumped at the chance to refresh my skills in an industry that is ever-evolving. I plan to use the knowledge to build a productive and rewarding career in the Bay Area.

WILL BROWNING U.S. ARMY San Pablo, CA

DIRECT PLACEMENT Murphy, McKay, & Associates

CYRUS CHIU

I was always interested in technology but did not know how to get my foot in the door. That is when I found out about NPower, in my last quarter at De Anza community college, through a job fair. I was skeptical about applying at first because of how my life would have to change if I committed to this program. This opportunity that was created for me did not go to waste. I am grateful for this amazing venture and for all of the support staff, instructors, and the student community that NPower has given me. I plan to continue pursuing the IT field and see where it leads me.

21, Los Altos, CA

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DIRECT PLACEMENT Murphy, McKay, & Associates Before applying to NPower, I worked as a data analyst at a biotech startup for a year. With my prior experience in healthcare, the biomedical industry, data analytics programming, and project management, I plan to combine what I’ve learned at NPower to transition into a full-time IT network engineering position.

CATHERINE DAO

24, San Jose, CA

CONTINUING EDUCATION Before I joined NPower, I was looking for classes to enhance my skill sets.

I learned about the program from a friend. I come from a family that isn’t well-versed in technology, so I decided to learn more about technology to help them improve their lives. NPower has increased my knowledge of technology. It was difficult at first, but I now have a better understanding of how a router operates and how hardware works within a computer. I learned about technology and had the opportunity to visit Robert Half Technologies. It was incredible learning about such a different work environment. I look forward to a position where I can fix computers with the knowledge, I’ve gained from NPower.

MELVIN FIGUEROA DE PAZ

20, San Jose, CA

DIRECT PLACEMENT Sony

DAVID FONG

24, San Francisco, CA

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Before NPower, I was working as a quality specialist for a dietary supplement company. I wasn’t content with my career path, as I had seen coworkers get stuck in positions with little to no growth. A friend, who happened to be an alumnus of NPower, referred me to the program. Having seen his success, I decided to give it a try. NPower has given me a strong foundation in IT and has allowed me to seek new opportunities. I plan to further my knowledge of networking and pursue a career in the networking field as a systems administrator.

CONTINUING EDUCATION After gaining experience in IT-related roles, I decided to enroll in NPower’s Tech Fundamentals program to further expand my skills. A friend who was enrolled in the program referred me to the program. It seemed like the perfect fit. I enjoy playing video games and using programming to solve complex mathematical problems on Project Euler and HackerRank.

MARCO GALLARDO

25, San Pablo, CA

DIRECT PLACEMENT Murphy, McKay, & Associates I was always interested in computers and Information Technology, but jumping into the IT field seemed risky and unpredictable. My husband, a military veteran, told me about the opportunity to transition into a career in technology through NPower. Through NPower’s Tech Fundamentals class, I have gained a whole new outlook on life. NPower set me on the path toward an IT career. NPower has helped me make connections in the tech industry, establish practical entry-level experience, and gain professional development skills. I am thankful for everything they have done!

TATIANA GERA U.S. NAVY SPOUSE Benicia, CA

DIRECT PLACEMENT Murphy, McKay, & Associates

STEVEN HA U.S. NAVY RESERVES San Jose, CA

After high school, I enlisted in the Navy to gain experience and eventually was commissioned as a naval officer in the IT field. Technology was a big part of my life connecting me with others, but my anxiety hindered my communication skills. I decided to focus my career on technology. Working in logistics, I dealt with the same struggles most warehouse employees go through—reliance on the internet and supercomputers to store all records of sales, shipping, receiving, and storage, which often have system failures and loss of data. NPower provided further insight into the tech industry. NPower has provided me with extensive knowledge that I never had about security and network troubleshooting and has prepared me for diving deeper into my computer science major. Throughout my time at NPower, I’ve built up the confidence, character, and leadership skills that I will need both when I return to active duty and when I transition back to the civilian sector after retirement.

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DIRECT PLACEMENT Murphy, McKay, & Associates Currently, I’m a full-time employee at Tesla in Fremont, CA. I heard about NPower from a friend, who told me that they provide tech training to veterans and young adults. In the future, I hope to become a network engineer.

FAISAL HAQIQI

23, Fremont, CA

PLACEMENT TBD I was born and raised in Salinas, CA and showed an early interest in the tech field by fixing and jailbreaking iPhones while in high school. While I had prior construction experience, I wanted a career change. I started working in the technical construction field, making radio frequency shielded chambers. I was intrigued by the benefits the military offered and found the perfect fit working in cryptologic technician networks. After taking the Cybersecurity class, I obtained my certification for free! I’m excited about my future and hope to obtain a position as a network engineer or cybersecurity analyst.

ANTHONY HERNANDEZ U.S. NAVY RESERVE Salinas, CA

DIRECT PLACEMENT Robert Half Technologies

CARL L. HILL JR.

CALIFORNIA AIR NATIONAL GUARD Castro Valley, CA

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Before joining the National Guard, I was in and out of college. During my time in the Guard, I serviced different types of aircraft navigation systems.

After leaving the Guard, I completed my degree in computer science, got married and started working. Before NPower, I worked in the network operations center at a financial institution. I started working in the high-tech industry when certifications weren’t required. Through NPower, I obtained my CompTIA ITF+ and A+ certifications and received an outstanding employment opportunity with Robert Half.

PLACEMENT TBD

JOSEPH L. JOHNSON II

U.S. AIR FORCE San Leandro, CA

An Oakland native and father of three, I recently made the life-changing decision to shift careers and pursue an IT career with the goal of obtaining my CCIE certification. Prior to joining NPower, I spent over 12 years in the low-voltage cabling field. NPower has been monumental in facilitating my transition. As a U.S. Air Force Security Forces veteran, I learned many life lessons, but most importantly the multiple meanings of the word discipline.

Discipline doesn't always mean punishment; it also means knowledge. It is having the willpower to accomplish a task from start to finish and training yourself to achieve desired results. I appreciate the Air Force for teaching me valuable life lessons, and I appreciate NPower for guiding my transition and organizing a path for veterans and their spouses and young adults along with their families to shape and reshape their lives.

INTERNSHIP Deloitte After college, I didn’t have a clear career path. I knew that I wanted to work in technology and with computers, but I was unsure of what specific area.

During my search to find the right career path, I joined a coding boot camp, worked as a freelance web developer for start-ups, and became a QA analyst. These experiences piqued my curiosity around testing software and identifying issues before and after they arise. I heard about the NPower Tech Fundamentals program through a colleague who completed the program. I decided to apply. I plan to obtain additional certifications and climb the ladder to success in the tech industry. NPower gave me the tools I need to succeed!

EUNICA LAZATIN

U.S. ARMY Walnut Creek, CA

PLACEMENT TBD I joined NPower because I saw it as an opportunity to get into the tech industry and acquire a certification along with my degree. I wanted to take a chance and apply myself to learning new skills. I was raised in a lowerincome family, so I didn’t have all the same opportunities as those in more affluent areas. NPower has given me experience for my resume and the opportunity to continue learning new concepts and ideas that I will apply to my career and life.

KEVIN LE 20, San Jose, CA

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PLACEMENT TBD

RAYMOND LEUNG

My childhood interest in video games led me to NPower. I developed a growing interest in technology and found myself working with computers and eventually graduating with a computer science degree. A friend, who was a graduate of NPower, referred me to the program where I could utilize and enhance the skills I learned at university while building my network and IT career. After having earned my CompTIA ITF+ certification, I am determined to keep moving forward to explore other fields, such as networking and cybersecurity.

23, Milpitas, CA

INTERNSHIP SFO – San Francisco International Airport After working in accounting for some years and embracing the continuous challenges and personal growth that came with that field, I developed a strong passion for tech, a field that is challenging and always advancing. I wasn’t sure how to take the first step. Fortunately, I found about NPower and its mission of transforming and changing lives by focusing on technical skills and career development. I successfully obtained my first certification with the knowledge and hands-on training provided by NPower, and know there are more to come. I hope to become a cybersecurity professional in three years. I am truly grateful for this awesome opportunity!

ZHUO LI U.S. ARMY Sunnyvale, CA

DIRECT PLACEMENT Murphy, McKay, & Associates

JAVIER LOPEZ U.S. NAVY Salinas, CA

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california

I have been interested in computers and technology from an early age.

After completing my service in the United States Navy, I decided to turn my passion for technology into a career. After receiving my computer science degree, I decided to continue my education with NPower. I have gained knowledge of networking and have been trained in resume writing and professional development. I’m happy that I decided to continue my education with NPower as it is helping me reach my goal of becoming a network engineer.

PLACEMENT TBD

KRIS E. LUTZ

While attending the local junior college after high school, I joined the Marine Corps. After I was honorably discharged, I decided to start and raise a family and had a rewarding career in the airline industry for eleven years.

When my job was outsourced, I changed jobs a few times. After settling into bartending, I realized that a career change was needed. When I heard about NPower from “Marine for Life”, I applied and was accepted. NPower provided me with the skills and knowledge needed to succeed. I am thankful for this opportunity, and I look forward to launching my career in the tech industry with the confidence and skills I’ve gained.

U.S. MARINE CORPS San Jose, CA

DIRECT PLACEMENT Murphy, McKay, & Associates After receiving my software engineering degree from Santa Clara University, I joined the United States Navy. Before joining the military, I had a few years of experience in software engineering. After attending and graduating from the Facebook Cybersecurity University for Veterans with honors, I was awarded several Facebook scholarships and became more and more passionate about cybersecurity engineering. Even after completing my Palo Alto Networks’ Accredited Configuration Engineer (ACE) certification, I still found it challenging to get a civilian job in that emerging field. A current NPower staff member who used to be the organizer of the ACE Program at Palo Alto Network introduced me to his team. The NPower team has supported me in securing interviews for positions at some great companies in the Bay Area, which has been a huge help!

MAHSHID MEHRAYIN

U.S. NAVY RESERVE Campbell, CA

DIRECT PLACEMENT Murphy, McKay, & Associates Before NPower, I was interested in information technology. I joined the program wanting to learn IT fundamentals to complement my knowledge and background in social sciences, basic system testing, and quality assurance. NPower helped me fill the gaps in my technical knowledge and professional development and prepare to transition to a career in technology. I'm hopeful that my plans will be fulfilled at NPower and that I will be one of NPower's success stories!

CATRINA N. San Jose, CA

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INTERNSHIP SFO – San Francisco International Airport

HARINI NATARAJAN

I am a graduate in electronics engineering, passionate about working in tech. During college, I showcased my interest in hardware engineering by designing a multiplier, which can be implemented in VLSI technology.

Since I have a gap in my career, I had been looking to expand my limited work experience in IT. Luckily, I found NPower at a job fair. I enrolled in the Tech Fundamentals program, which helped me refresh my knowledge and improve my professional skills. Thank you, NPower! I aspire to apply my knowledge of troubleshooting by becoming a network engineer.

27, Santa Clara, CA

DIRECT PLACEMENT Murphy, McKay, & Associates As a high school graduate who struggled to find direction in college but had the desire to learn and a curiosity for everything, NPower has provided a starting point for me to launch a career. With NPower’s support, I have been able to build foundational skills in computers and IT, as well as develop professionally, and I hope to continue to grow and reach my full potential.

I was fortunate enough to stumble across the program via a web search and thought that it sounded like the perfect opportunity for me. With the experience I’ve gained, I intend to continue working hard to develop my skills and work toward a brighter future. Thank you, NPower!

MICHAEL NELLIS

21, San Jose, CA

DIRECT PLACEMENT University of California, San Francisco Throughout my time at NPower, I’ve had the opportunity to study for several certifications; in the effort of becoming the most well-rounded IT professional I can be. I enjoyed the hands-on training, as well as having an instructor and mentor to ask questions. With the amount of information, we put on the internet, it becomes susceptible to malicious intent. In order to keep my information and the information of others safe, I am working toward a career in the Information Security field as a Security Engineer.

ALVIN OUM

27, South San Francisco, CA

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DIRECT PLACEMENT Bosch

HARRISON PHAM

I always had an interest in technology but never knew how it worked.

Majoring in management information systems at San Jose State University gave me a taste of what information technology was about and it sparked my interest! I knew it was time to take the next step and prepare for a career in IT. I was lost and didn’t know where to start. I was recommended to apply to NPower by colleagues. The awesome staff at NPower helped me develop professional and technical skills, which will allow me to pursue a networking career. I will never forget my experience at NPower because of my classmates and the amazing staff!

21, San Jose, CA

DIRECT PLACEMENT Murphy, McKay, & Associates I have loved computers ever since I built my first computer at age 16.

NPower helped me obtain my CompTIA ITF+ certification, and I’m glad that I have had the opportunity to further my love of computers and networking.

MICHAEL PLOCHJONES

U.S. MARINE CORPS San Jose, CA

INTERNSHIP San Francisco Giants

ULYSSES RAMIREZ

After serving eight years in the Army between the Army Reserve and active duty, I was honorably discharged and went on to serve my community as a federal correctional officer. I became a CPR and BLS instructor, sectary of the local union, and a member of the Enhanced Disturbance Control Team (EDCT).

I have always embraced a “fail hard, fail fast” mentality and try to approach new ideas with an open mind. Always moving forward, I went on to educate myself, first by getting my BA in criminal justice administration, and later an MBA from California State University, East Bay. I found myself wanting to learn more about the technology industry, and thanks to NPower, I have a new bright future!

U.S. ARMY Hayward, CA

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DIRECT PLACEMENT Murphy, McKay, & Associates

VINCENT SIMBE 25, Milpitas, CA

Prior to NPower, I was an art student with aspirations to work in the animation industry. I had always been interested in computers, so I took introductory classes to see if I’d like it. My interest grew, particularly in networking, for which I had taken a CCNA course. I heard about NPower in 2016 from my father, who signed up for the A+ program in San Mateo while I joined the ServiceNow and ITIL program in Alameda. After working for a year, I decided to earn an A+ certification and began studying for the Network+ certification. I then heard about the Tech Fundamentals program.

I was excited to learn IT fundamentals and valuable networking skills. My goal is to become a network engineer and study how networking concepts continue to evolve while continuing to explore my interest in art.

Eventually, I plan to return to school for a degree in computer science.

PLACEMENT TBD Prior to NPower, I was a student at San Jose State University pursuing a degree in computer science. For personal reasons, I had to leave school and work full-time. I learned about NPower through SJSU’s veteran's program. NPower provided an opportunity for me to pursue my career again. I have always had an interest in engineering and technology through influence from my family; my father and grandfather were electrical engineers. At NPower, I have achieved ITF+ certification, and my goals are to get my CCNA by the end of this program and CCNP certification within the next year. I want to work as a network engineer. Once I have my certifications and start working, I would also like to go back to school and finish my degree.

SHRI SINGH U.S. ARMY San Jose, CA

DIRECT PLACEMENT Amazon Data Center

SEAN SPENCE U.S. AIR FORCE San Jose, CA

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Technology is my passion; I have had constant exposure to it. I grew up with the technology curve and went from Walkman to a CD player, to iPod, and now we have the cloud. I served in the United States Air Force for four years as a radar technician and found my passion for troubleshooting. I pursued my education at the University of North Carolina before discovering NPower.

I have leadership experience through volunteering, as well as through my time in the military, which ranges from leading small teams to a team as large as 100+. These skills, coupled with my time at NPower, have enabled me to learn more about IT and pursue certifications with CompTIA ITF+/A+ and Cisco CCENT/CCNA. I am interested in pursuing a career in database/ network engineering.

PLACEMENT TBD

KEVIN TRAN

My passion for helping others led me to my college Job Fair Club, where I facilitated the 2019 spring job fair. This event connected me to NPower.

Joining NPower allowed me to learn about the growing IT field and equipped me with the skills to fulfill my dream of building a company that develops miniature medical devices. After graduating from college, I hope to work in the technology, aerospace, or biomedical industries for a few years, then return to school to obtain my MS in mechanical engineering, with a specialization in heat transfer and solid mechanics. This will propel me to new heights!

19, San Jose, CA

DIRECT PLACEMENT Murphy, McKay, & Associates I came to the Bay Area two years ago after graduating from college in the Philippines. I studied IT and majored in game development, but being new to the area, I didn’t have any connections and struggled to find work since game development has high industry standards. I felt lost, so when a friend referred me to NPower, I quickly applied. Even though my major is game development, IT is related to my career. NPower helped me develop professional and technical skills. I learned more about technology and security, including troubleshooting, creating a network system, and configuring routers and switches. Everything became clear to me; I finally know what I want to do in the future! My goal is to become a desktop support analyst and explore network engineering.

JOSHUA VILLAREAL 22, Fremont, CA

DIRECT PLACEMENT Murphy, McKay, & Associates Before NPower, I was struggling to find meaningful employment. My EDD veteran representative told me about this program, and once I met with the staff, I knew I was on the right track to launch a career in IT. NPower has given me the tools professionally and personally to succeed in a field I thought wouldn’t be possible for me; it opened my eyes to a plethora of possibilities and opportunities. I plan to use my experience and the knowledge I obtained to begin a career as a network security engineer.

VLADIMIR WADEGREENE

U.S. NAVY Santa Clara, CA

#NPOWERGRADS

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INTERNSHIP SFO – San Francisco International Airport

KOUA XIONG

U.S. ARMY Milpitas, CA

After graduating from high school, I attended two years of college at CSU Sacramento. Not knowing what I wanted to pursue, I enlisted in the United States Army in 2012 as a healthcare specialist to serve my country and find myself. After seven years, I knew what I wanted to do; I needed to get out and chase my dreams. I found out about NPower through a friend from basic training who had gotten out of the military in 2016 and found himself homeless. While traveling through different shelters, he found a flyer for the NPower Tech Fundamentals program. After completion of the course, he was hired full-time at CA Technologies in Dallas, TX and is now doing well. My career goal is to complete the NPower Tech Fundamentals program and further my knowledge so that I can become a network engineer. I believe NPower is the “gateway” that we all need!

DIRECT PLACEMENT Murphy, McKay, & Associates I joined the Navy seeking a challenge, and I met all the challenges. The IT industry is another challenge. Although I had four years of college experience in technology, my knowledge and skills were out of date; I needed a refresher. I couldn’t imagine then that IT would change the world. Today, through NPower, I have the chance to become a member of the population who will change the world again. I can’t wait!

SHAOGAI YAN U.S. NAVY RESERVES San Jose, CA

PLACEMENT TBD I graduated from a four-year university with honors but had difficulty entering the job market. I applied to NPower through an Instagram ad in hopes of pivoting my career into the IT field. I have completed a CompTIA ITF+ certification and am working towards Cisco CCNA/CCENT certifications. My goal is to enter web development and full-stack engineering to combine engaging storytelling with easily accessible and navigable technology.

SUSIE YI

23, Santa Clara, CA

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DIRECT PLACEMENT MemSQL Having been referred by a friend and alumnus of NPower, I enrolled in the Tech Fundamentals program to improve and adapt my professional outlook.

I had been looking to expand my limited work experience, much of which was in private tutoring during my time at SJSU. I have a BS in computer science from San Jose State University, and I needed NPower to help make connections in the tech world.

DENNY ZHAO

24, San Francisco, CA

#NPOWERGRADS

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CONGRATULATIONS TECH FUNDAMENTALS FALL 2019!

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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.

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california

WE ARE THE FUTURE OF WORK Through partner and tech industry collaboration, our free training model is a workforce development solution for the future. We prepare untapped, diverse talent to fill the nearly 6 million jobs expected to require tech skills by 2020. Our graduates of over 4,000 veterans and young adults are hired at over 200 companies and nonprofits as interns and full-time employees.

NPower is on a mission to place 15,000 young adults and veterans into quality jobs or continuing education by 2023. 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.

80%

› Of students who enroll graduate › Of alumni get jobs or continue their education

(Based on NPower’s national average 2017-2018)

#NPOWERGRADS

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THANK YOU...

TO OUR EMPLOYMENT PARTNERS, SPONSORS, FUNDERS & SUPPORTERS Amazon Data Center

May and Stanley Smith Charitable Trust

Arista Foundation

Murphy McKay & Associates

Astreya

Palo Alto Networks

Bader Family Fund

Quinstreet

Bank of America

Robert Half Technologies

Bosch

San Francisco Airport

California Wellness Foundation

San Francisco Giants

Citi Foundation

Samba TV

The County of Santa Clara

The Sobrato Family Foundation

Craig Newmark Philanthropies

Sony

CSAA

St. Paul’s United Methodist Church (San Jose, CA)

Deloitte Dropbox JPMorgan Chase & Co.

Wells Fargo Workday Foundation

A SPECIAL THANK YOU FOR HOSTING OUR GRADUATION

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TO OUR VOLUNTEERS Aspira Oscar Garcia

Robert Half Jerry Doherty

Astreya Erika Keough Deidra Murphy

Splunk Heidi Smith Chris Wilson

Lawrence Berkely Labs Elizabeth Bautista Lady Idos Kelly Johnson

Symantec Kimberly Bishop Johnathan Omansky

Mozilla Mike Purzyski

UN Women’s Council of Diversity and Inclusion Nuray Ozbay

Murphy, McKay, & Associates Troy Dixon Barbara Kirk Al Silva

Work2Future Karen Elliot George Leanos Kenya Rawls

Netflix Jimmy Sanders

Workday Nikki Egenolf

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NPOWER SUPPORTERS UNDERWRITERS | $750K+

SPONSORS | $250K+

PARTNERS | $100K+ The Abell Foundation

Centene Charitable Foundation

Ainslie Foundation

Cognizant

Ascension Information Services

Emerson

Bloomberg Philanthropies

Fidelity

Heckscher Foundation for Children

The Sobrato Family Foundation

Ira W. DeCamp Foundation

Tata Consultancy Services

St. Louis Community Foundation

Mastercard

Tiger Foundation

Microsoft

Bob Woodruff Foundation

First Data

The California Wellness Foundation

The Hearst Foundations

The New York Community Trust

The Achelis & Bodman Foundation

Carl B. & Florence E. King Foundation

France-Merrick Foundation

American Express

CompTIA

Andreessen Horowitz

Corteva Agriscience

Atlas

Craig Newmark Philanthropy Fund

Workday

Publicis Sapient

SUPPORTERS | $50K+

Capital One

St. Louis Regional Business Council

JobsFirstNYC

Verizon

The Meadows Foundation

Vodafone

Motorola Solutions Foundation Netscout

TECHNOLOGY PARTNERS Cisco Systems

HPE

Deloitte

Tata Consultancy Services

Zoom

FRIENDS Agorai

GoodScout

Mesosphere

CaaStle

Hunt Consolidated, Inc.

PowerSchool

TCC Group

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

New York | New Jersey | Texas | California | Maryland | Missouri | Michigan | Canada |

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