Graduate Bios
Alvarez 24, San Jose, CA
Prior to NPower, I was struggling to get my interest in technology back. I currently work as
for the past year and a half. As time passed, I understood why the technological industry is always advancing rapidly. Just like the growth of the industry, its people must follow the progress
Nearly 4 years ago, I enrolled in the Fall 2019 NPower session and saw just how impactful it could be on young adults with interest in tech careers. At that time I was unable to complete the program. Now that the opportunity has presented itself again, I am committed to success-
become a program manager. I believe with the right connections and my determination that is very possible through NPower.
Guadalupe Arellano 23, Santa Clara, CA
Before NPower, I worked as a phlebotomist at a clinic. Throughout my journey as a Lab Assistant and diversity demonstrating patient care I have come to a point where I want to turn over my skills on a different path. From the beginning of my interest in tech I came across the NPower program. I was shocked to see there was a program out there that was free to teach individuals. I had doubts about starting the program because I’m also working but decided to give it a try.
start. Challenging myself into something completely out of my comfort zone could change my life. -
rrent skills and working in IT support. I see myself working in IT support as a career steppingstone for more advanced areas in tech that I can grow into.
Jesus
in tech, especially game consoles. My very own console was a Silver Slim PS2, I still remember the night my parents brought it home from Best Buy. Before NPower, I was working at a good-paying job in San Fransico. Then the unthinkable happe-
after-school instructor. I kept thinking, how long before I get another good-paying job? How long will I stay at my current job? How long until I ran out of money to support my family?
Thanks to my supportive family, I found NPower. I look forward to continuing to develop my skills
feels as if I haven’t been in a learning setting in a long time, so I’m glad to be at NPower. I don’t
people, problem-solving, working with data, and working on projects. I know that through the effort I have put into this program, I can achieve my future professional goals.
Before NPower I was working with Collins Aerospace maintaining radio, satellite, phone, and network communications for airlines. I decided to become involved in tech after college because the job outlook for my degree was not very great. IT is something I am interested in and paired with the job outlook it became a no-brainer. I am most proud of being able to move away from home and begin to build a sustainable life for myself.
Joining NPower is a close second; because although I am second in my family to graduate university, I never had a real passion or plan during that time. I have a great feeling about the decision I made by being a part of NPower. This program is leading me in the direction I want to be heading. It was not easy for me to partake in the program as I had many other obligations. I am proud of being brave enough to take this leap.
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Oscar Banuelos Richmond, CA
Abdellah Bouzidi U.S. Airforce Stockton, CA
Mount Hamilton, CA
Prior to my involvement with NPower, I had the privilege of serving as an Avionics Technician in the Marine Corps. Upon completing my enlist-
both the bicycle and assistive technology manufacturing sectors. Additionally, I successfully invented, patented, developed, manufactured, and marketed a compostable paper spoon.
Currently, I am employed at the Lick Observa-
When I learned of NPower’s opportunity to deepen my understanding of the tech industry, I ea-
Before starting NPower, I was working a job that I didn’t enjoy. I was a college student, but I couldn’t continue my education to get a degree
came across NPower from a tiktok video done by a NPower staff member. I proceeded to sign up for the program so I could obtain the knowledge to grow in my career. This program has proven to be an invaluable resource offering various forms of support, all of which were provided at no cost.
NPower’s program will facilitate a transition into a more tech-focused career path.
Matthew Brooks
U.S. Marine Corps
Melissa Castenada 23, Riverside, CA
Rancho Cordova, CA
As a native of Monterey County, the tech industry wasn’t a consideration. Instead, I became an air federal, Department of Defense, and contracting arenas both in and out of CONUS, I am aspiring to take advantage of work from home opportunities. I learned about NPower from a fellow veteran that appreciated the amount of support and opportunities the program has provided.
Prior to NPower, I spent time as a Sales Manager for “The Good Guys” setting up and training sain the company. I learned great customer service and management skills. After working at least 20 -
tion. I truly enjoyed the NPower program. Thankssional.
Latoya Clark
U.S. Navy
Robert Coston
U.S. Air Force Antioch, CA
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Prior to joining NPower, I attended community college, and I was also employed by UCSF Medi-
tients talked with, so I always had a big smile on my face and communicated with the patients in a compassionate and kind manner. Working with UCSF made me realize I enjoy helping and communicating with other individuals and being able to make a positive impact on others.
I learned about NPower while doing research on -
re I read a lot of interesting information about NPower. I applied and luckily my interviews went well, and I was able to get accepted. My goal in -
ces to further my career as an IT specialist.
Prior to NPower, I was working in Social Services. I have always had an interest in technology but never pursued it as life took me down a different path. I was introduced to NPower through a -
During my NPower training, my favorite thing was having all the concepts start to “click” for me. I enjoyed gaining insight from industry professionals and the opportunity to engage with them along with my fellow trainees. I think tech can help people in underserved communities change the trajectory of their lives and from this forward to launching my tech career while con-
NPower and San Jose’s incredible staff for their dedication and support!
Yaneth Diaz 24, Fremont, CA
Nary Dunajski Sacramento, CA
Prior to NPower, I worked as a Program Manager for Kern Regional Center. I managed our Service Coordinators in the Adult Unit and supported, reviewed, and approved services for participants that were active on the Service Coordinators caseload. In addition to that I trained staff and fostered a growth mindset, and a person-centered approach to services.
an alternate source of income and came across NPower. I have always been interested in IT. In many of the positions I have held I was considered the resident “tech guy;” supporting and troubleshooting tech issues for staff. So, I applied and was accepted into the program in 2021 but was wait-listed. The opportunity came up again to get involved in NPower and I jumped at the opportunity. I look forward to breaking into the
Services to build on my passion to support the organization to better serve their demographic.
Devyon Foster 23, Los Angeles, CA
Before I was in NPower, I was a recent college graduate working in retail. I was not working in a
heading towards through college was no longer what I wanted. Prior to NPower, I had taken an interactive storytelling tech class where I discovered the resilience and detail it takes to create gaming programs, even when they are literature based.
I was introduced to NPower by a distant friend
I was currently in, and she told me about the program. My interest in technology and NPower grew once I investigated the program a little knowledge of technology and pursue a career in the tech industry. I am grateful for the community and knowledge that I have gained throughout my time at NPower.
Joseph Flores U.S. Coast Guard
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U.S. Navy
East Palo Alto, CA
In June of 1979 after completing 4 years of college, I enlisted in The United States Navy to make my family proud and gain valuable job training. I served 6 years active, 2 years reserve. While active, I was a S.O.N.A.R. Technician for surface ship warfare and served as a Work Center Supervisor.
Naval Intelligence as a Research Analyst. This led for successful computer and telecommunications companies.
time-off from tech to be treated for it. Like many -
less and addicted to alcohol. It has not been easy; it took 13 years before I felt well enough to attempt attending school again. Through NPower, I have continued to hone my skills in computers and network technology, and I intend to get back on my feet at a new place of employment. It is my hope that the success I have worked for can
ring strength and hope for a brighter future.
U.S. Marine Corps
Long Beach, CA
Before NPower I was in the United States Marine Corps and jumping from job to job. During my military service, my MOS (Military Occupational Specialty) was 6531 Aviation Ordnance Techni-
ving in the Marine Corps taught me to be to be disciplined, have integrity, and to be a leader. I was in the military for four years, and throughout those years we were tested daily on our physical
about myself was that I can accomplish anything with determination and willpower.
I decided to go into tech when I realized how much the tech industry was growing and how much we depend on it daily. I learned about NPower through an email with the title “Break -
ven me a new passion for tech. I hope to gain more knowledge by obtaining my CompTIA A+
Tim Gallegos
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Oscar Garibay
U.S. Navy
Menifee, CA
Growing up, I was always interested in technology and how it could improve the world. After high school, I attended a local community collestruggles forced me to drop out before I could earn my degree. A few years later, after departing from the U.S Navy, I heard about the NPower program. Through months of intense training and hard work, I learned an incredible amount about the fundamentals of IT while gaining my others who shared my passion for technology. Now, as I begin to search for job opportunities in the tech industry, I hope to use the skills I’vepact in the world. Whether it’s developing new software applications or working to improve and solve end user problems as an IT professional, I am eager to put my knowledge to use and build a successful career in technology. I am grateful for the opportunities that have brought me to this future holds.
U.S. Navy Reserves
Oakland, CA
I joined the US Navy in 2020. From active servicecited me. I thought, “What a fantastic opportunity to learn something new!” Since I started the course, I have never regretted it. I learned a lot in a short amount of time thanks to NPower staff. I am grateful that I found NPower because they helped me start my career in tech.
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Alexis Gonzalez
Shengjie Guan
Prior to NPower, I have always had a strong pas-
but was uncertain as to how to transition to ei-
I have learned a great deal from both my peers and instructors and was able to obtain my Goo-
I am currently working towards my CompTIA A+ fellow peers and instructors I hope to better myself professionally, academically, and earn the opportunity to intern at a company.
Before starting the program, I immigrated from Afghanistan to seek refuge from Taliban rule.
at times depressing and challenging. I’ve worked many jobs trying to earn money to continue my schooling to no avail. Luckily, the International Rescue Committee (IRC) introduced me to the -
gram will lead me to the path to reach my goals and dreams for my future success. The skills and fundamentals I learn will launch my tech career and help me to attain a position with a Fortune 500 company.
Kyle Guevara 26, Long Beach, CA
Faisal Hamidi 25, Tracy, CA
Omar Harris U.S. Marine Corps San Francisco, CA
Before starting NPower, I was struggling to enterlor introduced me to NPower. I decided to join to make a career move for the better and knew this was just the program for me. I knew that a course like this could help me accomplish my dreams.
NPower provides the system for success. Among the networking, internships, mentorship, and cer-
sing and everything was free! The only thing I had to do was “trust the process” and put in the work. With my new skills and IT Fundamentals
my tech career by obtaining a full-time position after completing my internship at a clean transportation company.
Ahmad Hazrati 25, Fremont, California
Prior to NPower, I have been tackling many obstacles since the age of 17 where I had to work to provide for my family. I came to the United Stated as a refugee in 2014 as a senior in high school. I attended college and completed my 2 years of general education. Since my mom and dad are of
also be their caregiver. My older brother and I are trying to make a living and help pay rent, bills, and all other necessities.
I came across NPower through a close friend of mine from high school. I currently work as a movie theater manager, which I worked my way up throughout the years starting off as a cashierlogy as we use projectors. The tech side always a coding-class, and I really enjoyed it. This pro-
professional. This means so much not only to me but my family as well.
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U.S. Army/Air Force National Guard
Orange County, CA
Prior to becoming a student with NPower, I was working as a Staff Assistant for the Internal Audit Department. My duties included proofreading, editing, publishing public and private audit reports, and billing.
NPower has helped me to upgrade my technical
Google IT Support, Google Project Management, and Security+. I have also been able to improve my professional skills through the professional development class each week. I am actively seeking a professional role in cyber security regarding Governance, Risk Management, Compliance. I enjoy networking with fellow tech professionals from my Tech Fundamentals cohort who may guide my development.
U.S. Marine Corps
South San Francisco, CA
Before NPower I was working at an Amazon warehouse and then became unemployed. Duringtrol as my MOS. Serving in the USMC taught me organization skills and discipline. I learned about NPower from a Hiring event at SF Goodwill Career services. Seeing that it could teach the basics of IT careers interested me the most because I was unemployed and homeless, but still wanted to in-
Since entering NPower’s classes, I have learned a lot about technology I would normally take for granted. I also recently achieved my Googledge of technology with NPower’s advanced pro-
IT will help me land an entry level IT position until I can work up to getting a Cloud services-based position.
De’Shan Howard
Brian Ikemoto
El Cajon, CA
Prior to joining NPower, I served in the US Navy as a Personnel Specialist. After I left the military, I continued to work for the government by suppor-
Center. I completed both my bachelor’s and master’s degrees in business administration in four my achievements in the administrative sector, I more thrilling and demanding position. I pursued technology.
When I came across an email promoting the NPower program, I realized it was the ideal chan-
Long Beach, CA
Fresh out of High School I joined the U.S. Army at the tender age of 17. I then decided to do security where I could still use skills I learned in the military. The idea of working in cybersecurity has opened my eyes to a career path I didn’t originally see in my future. After receiving an email from Work for Warriors about the NPower program, I immediately knew this might be my calling.
My time at NPower gave me the knowledge I nee-
the technical knowledge I needed to be successgrounding in networking, cybersecurity, and IT support, which I have added to my skill set. I am grateful to the NPower program for giving me the skills and information I need to reach my overarching goal of serving as a penetration tester. I have faith in my skills and am eager to see what the future brings.
of the best instructors that spent hours preparing the professional development classes helped us get ready for the real world. The tips and guilike to give a special thanks to everyone here at NPower. After graduation, I plan to continue my education, but I will be using the skills I’ve gained to help me start my new career in Cloud Security.
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Ana Jasso
U.S. Navy
Yuahki Jones
U.S. Army
I studied Intro to Cybersecurity at CSULB before joining NPower. I learned about NPower through -
veral thousand dollars. I’m glad I learned about NPower because I might have paid a lot of money
cybersecurity professionals in the market, I am -
continue my education through NPower’s advanced programs.
Before NPower, I was a passionate gamer that worked at Best Buy trying to get into coding. What brought me into NPower was my passion
year studying on Coursera by myself, and a few months later I’m getting interviewed for a seat
with the passion of a gamer I dream that NPower can help me get to that point in my dream, maybe even further.
Amrinderjeet Kaur 19, San Jose, CA
Tyzhon Kendricks 23, Oakland, California
Tessia Laulu
U.S. Army
San Jose, CA
Right out of high school I went to college for about a year and had 2 jobs. I knew from that point in my life, I wanted more discipline and structure, so I decided to join the Army. From 2010 to today, as I am still serving in the California National Guard, I have had 3 military jobs and 2 deployments. I was activated during the start of Covid in 2019 through 2021 and saw such a huge shift in the technology world and that is what really started my interest in Tech. The problem was I just didn’t know where or how to start. During the Covid pandemic decline I got pregnant and had my son at the end of 2021.
After taking a year to get my footing as a pa-
Richard Leung
U.S. Marine Corps (Reserves)
Millbrae, CA
Before NPower I served in the United States Marine Corps Reserves as an Automotive Maintenance Technician up until early 2020, right before the pandemic. In between that time, I was in school and worked a variety of jobs, ranging from
I originally found out about NPower through the Work for Warriors program in an email inviting me to an information session. I applied for the application. I applied again out of interest in a ca-
ge. Through NPower, I have gained the skills and change.
interviewed at many places but never got past scrolled through my emails looking to see if I had gotten any notices from the potential employers.terans. I read through it and applied immediately. again for a tech career after participating in the NPower program and gaining my ITF+ and Goo-
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Ryan Listberger
U.S. Air Force
Lincoln, CA
Force as a Security Forces Member. After active to go in life. I started with going back to school to learn about my own mental health by achieving a BA in Psychology. While attending school, I contacted Wounded Warrior Project to receive help with returning to the workforce. While speaking with my Warrior to Work counselor, she suggested NPower due to my love for technology. After learning more about NPower, I decided this was the perfect program for me to get back into the
purpose since leaving the Air Force, but now, I have regained that sense of purpose and a clear direction. I hope to achieve a lifelong career withe public.
June Loaiza 22, San Jose, CA
Before I began NPower I wasn’t sure what career I would be pursuing. I knew schooling in tech provided a lot of opportunities but didn’t know where me. With NPower’s help I’m not only getting the knowledge that I’ll be using to have a successful career in this industry, but I have found something I can enjoy doing. After NPower I plan on taking another course to further my knowledge and eventually work in the coding sector.
Jason Louie
25, San Francisco, CA
Prior to NPower, I was working as a Community Health Worker at a local clinic. I initially envi-
year in this position I felt the urge to do more. A new career path was something I had trouble -
cially just graduating at the start of the pandemic. I stumbled upon NPower while scrolling through TikTok. NPower seemed like the perfect way for me to advance in my career. I have always wan-
Robert Teley Marks
18, Canyon Country, CA
Before Starting NPower I was in high school wia college degree to look forward to but no real alternative. I also had no credentials nor profesmy school’s halls for a program to help me get a career in tech, so I applied. NPower helped me out by training me in IT and professional development. I learned the importance of networking and professionalism and I was even able to get a
I hope through NPower that I get to break into the IT world. One of my goals this year is to take up space in new areas I may have strayed away from in the past. Through this program, I hope
advance in my career. I am hopeful that I can incorporate these new skills with my background in -
line. I now have an alternative if college does not forever change my life for the better. After gra-
a good job to work through my degree, and afterwards to use my skills to get a job I can raise a family off of.
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Edgar Marquez 25, Salinas, CA
Before NPower I was attending college not knowing where my path or career would lead me. I was working minimum wage jobs not feeling accomplished in my lifestyle. Throughout my life I would spend hours on technology, whether it be game consoles or computers. During college I realized I wanted to pursue a career in technology knowing that would be my future. I’ve truly felt I accomplished something when I decided to build my two computers from parts I picked out.
In the NPower program I have enjoyed learning more in depth about computers and their parts. I attempted to learn on my own but with the program it has allowed me to learn at a faster rate with the help of my classmates. Professional development has also taught me how to speak professionally for potential interviews needed for my future. In a year, I strongly believe I will be worbeing in a job that I love.
Betty Martin-Finneran, Ph.D U.S. Air Force Pleasant Hill, CA
I am a US Air Force veteran; my specialty was include any computer technology at that time. Before NPower, I was employed as a retail as-
using my advanced degrees. I completed my Ph.D. in Interdisciplinary Studies at The Union Institute, University Graduate College, Cincinnati, Ohio. My original goal was to teach in some area
in a business computer lab at a community colle-
ding employment in education. Thus, I returned to college and completed my Master of Science Degree in Information Management Technology at Grantham University, Kansas City, Missouri. This is an IT manager-centric degree. I have no interest in IT management and was interested
newsletter and decided to pursue technology. I would love to be employed as a NPower instructor. Three years from now, I see myself as an
technology or professional development.
Joel Munoz Pleasanton, CA
se in data analytics through Google. I was also giving private lessons to young, beginning brass player students. Throughout my working career I found that I have a passion for educating others, helping them grow, and develop so that they can
the way. I knew I wanted to be involved in tech while at my last job because I had to troubleshoot with computers and registers crashing with the company’s IT support. I worked on daily evaluations using some of the analytical skills I had developed which prompted my interest in data analytics. Through NPower, I have learned some new skills and feel ready to start a new career in tech.
Martin N Muthama U.S. Air Force Oakley, CA
Before joining NPower Tech Fundamentals Program, I had served Actively and as a Reservist with the USAF for a combined 6yrs. I have had a great interest in IT, particularly the Cyber Securi-
veterans with employment, training and entrepreneurship.
While in the NPower program I have gained my as new professional knowledge. I will forever be grateful for this great opportunity and support in securing a career in the IT Support Industry. I hope to secure a job within the tech industry shortly after graduation.
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Gerald (Wayne) Newton U.S. Coast Guard San Francisco, CA
Before NPower, I was relentlessly seeking gainful and meaningful employment following my
the U.S. Army Reserves in Northern California, -
ring my time at NPower resiliency was reiterated -
pport, CompTIA ITF+, CompTIA A+, and Coursera Google Project Management with Agile. Through -
sulting in me being successful on the other side of the trials. After graduating from NPower, coupled with 16+ years of federal & corporate work consultant! I would like to thank NPower for this phenomenal opportunity!
Austin Nguyen 23, San Jose, California
Before NPower I was working minimum wage at Starbucks while saving up money for school. I took a step back when covid started and reevaluated my goals because I was majoring in creative writing at the time. I have a wide variety of interests that I struggle to keep up with. I like reading, going to the gym, video games, music, and eating good food! I was born and raised in San Jose, California so I’ve always had an interest in technology. I learned about the NPower program through a friend who told me to sign up in my career. Through the tech and professional to kickstart my tech career by getting my foot in the door.
Before NPower, I was a college student who had majored in Psychology, but I was still uncertain about what I wanted to do in life. After I graduated, I felt lost and didn’t know where to go from there. I heard about NPower through one of my college professors and signed up for it after I graduated. I decided that I wanted to be involved in tech because I was already very comfortable with using computers. I also knew that the general populace is getting increasingly involved with tech as time passes and it is commonplace in many workplaces.
During my time at NPower, I was able to adjust my resume and make it look more appealing for potential employers. I also learned some strategies that would help increase my chances of getting a job. I’ve learned about the importance of networking, and I believe that I’ve gained morekforce. In 1 year, I think I’d see myself engaging in another NPower program or perhaps an internship.
Before hearing about NPower I was trying to learn Python coding by myself through YouTube, but it was hard because I had no one to help me. So, I gave it up and got a part-time job at Lowes. I recently moved out of my parents’ house and my uncle told me about the NPower program, as he had just attended the cohort before. Throughout my time in the program, I have gained technical knowledge and had fun doing it. The instructors have been very helpful in preparing me to take -
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Kevin Nguyen 23, San Jose, CA
Christopher Pedroza 19, Oceanside, CA
Prior to NPower, I was working at Walgreens as a Customer Service Associate and studying at Sanring student. I learned about NPower from a Google search looking for an apprenticeship. What I -
taking NPower’s advanced courses, and venturening.
Redwood City, CA
Prior to NPower I was a Grant Coordinator for the California Conservation Corps (CCC). I graduated with a BS in Recreation, Parks & Tourism Administration from San Francisco State University with a focus on natural resources. Over the course of my career with the CCC, I developed many relationships with CCC staff, project managers,
other state agencies to carry out programs that serve our corps members.
I was introduced to NPower by Marines from my reserve unit and heard NPower was providing job training and employment assistance to Bay Area residents interested in technology-related careers. The Bay Area can be a challenging place to live, and despite my career success, I wanted to struggle less while living here. Tech is an in-demand profession with high salary positions,tential to grow within the industry. I’ve always been curious about the tech world. I felt open to jumping on the “techie bandwagon” and learning new skills. Through NPower, I was able to com-
skills to help me on the road to career success.
Matthew Pena
21, San Jose, CA
Anthony Pham
U.S. Marine Corps Reserves
Shabbir Rasooly 23, Oakland, California
Before starting NPower, I worked full-time secu-
enough to do so. I heard about NPower from a friend at IRC. I decided to participate in the NPower program. This program was very well
self-building strategies, and also professional development. The only thing I had to do was trust the process. With my new skills and my IT Funlaunching my tech career and obtaining a full-time position at a tech company.
I am grateful to NPower, and to my peers and mentors, for making it possible to turn my passion into a career. Before starting NPower, I was lost without a plan of action. NPower gave me the path to be able to start my journey in a successful tech career. I found NPower through a friend that had told me about great successes within the organization. I am glad that she opened a door for me to sharpen my skills and knowledge to build a better future for myself and the ones I love.
CompTIA A+, CompTIA Network+, Security +, andperience working in a health care setting, I hope IT administrator professional. This will combine both strong passions in my life, technology and -
ce and knowledge that will help me achieve my goals.
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Joshua Ravalo 27, Orange, CA
Before NPower I was working full time at an assisted living home where I served food to the residents. What brought me to NPower was a desi-
and start my career. My time at NPower gave me the ability to be more open and communicate better with people; as well as the technical skills to further my knowledge of computers. After graduation I plan on starting my career in the tech industry and one day a career in programming.
Before starting NPower, I was working as a security guard trying to make ends meet for my single mother and younger brother. I wanted to gocially wasn’t able to. Then after seeing a listing on Craigslist for a free IT tech program, I decided that this was a sign. During my stay here I’ve been able to cultivate and tap into my true potential. Academically, NPower has helped to set me up for success. Not to mention the great professional development opportunities that come with training at NPower. After graduation, I am a long-term career goal to support my family!
Robbie Robbins 25, Vacaville, CA
Adham Saleh 19, San Jose, California
Mina Semu 24, Sacramento, CA
Before starting NPower, I was working two jobs striving to provide a living and ending a season of being homeless. I wanted to go back to-
mat two years ago and applied that same week. I was accepted and attended for a few weeks only to leave the training due to entering a season of homelessness. I worked hard to get back on my feet so that I could reapply. I have now not only -
for this program that allowed me to have access and internship opportunities. I’m looking forward to seeing what the future has in store for me.
Michael Shimmin U.S. Navy Belmont, CA
The coronavirus pandemic served as a time toces. Massive disruptions in the labor market had that would normally have been closed to me due to my age and lack of a college degree. I decided that I wanted to be involved in tech in the late 90s and 2000s when I lived near Stanat NPower, my interactions with classmates and I came to appreciate how the program’s structure can help organize an individual’s mind and thinking process.
At the beginning of my NPower studies, though I had a diverse skill set, I had failed to bring everything together in a way that would advance my career. During training my favorite thing was the organizational breakdown and presentation of the material. It was presented with realistic deadlines that I felt constantly challenged me but were not overwhelming. The professional development modules were incredibly useful for provi-
effective dialogue with prospective employers. In 3 to 5 years, I see myself occupying a vital and productive role in the technology working space, hopefully as a contract employee working on a software development team.
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Hajra Sidiqi
26, Fremont, California
Prior to NPower, I was working 1 full time and 2 part time jobs, struggling with being homeless,
used to live alone just with my father and when Iving me to go about my life all alone. When my
in being able to ever have a support system.
in college but was unable to transfer because I didn’t have enough funds to support myself as a full-time student.
Fortunately, my coworkers introduced me to NPower. My coworkers have been like family to me. They care for me and see the hard work I put in and understand how it can feel redundant working minimum wage jobs. After graduation, I plan on implementing the skills and knowledge I have gained at NPower as an IT professional. I will be forever grateful for the opportunity to be a student at NPower and for the ongoing blessings this program will provide for me.
Daria Speranksa
25, Sacramento, CA
Before NPower, I worked as a team lead dispatch degree in Management and Master’s degree inwhere I helped to coordinate and assist refugees helped me to overcome a language barrier, increased my multi-tasking and problem-solving skills, and taught me to do data analysis. I’ve years, and my proudest accomplishment was to create and supervise a strong productive team. As an ambitious person, I realized that I’ve reached the top in the transportation industry, so I decided to change my professional career. In tech I see many more opportunities to grow and develop in the future. During my NPower training, I learned about the tech industry from the bottom research, reading comprehension, and business communication. Tech is the key for everyone, regardless of their background, to succeed. I’m a my technical and interpersonal skills; allowing me to achieve my career goals and ultimate dreams.
Before starting NPower I was working as a contracted Lead Analyst for a medical device com-
at the company. Having always been interested in Game Design, I was struggling to seek out jobs within the industry. My father saw an advertise-
mended me to investigate it. I did have a slight interest in technology outside of programming and this was a good chance to learn new skills that would hopefully guide me to my dream job. After graduation I hope to secure a job that can lead myself into my dream job of being a manga artist or narrative designer for a game design company.
Before NPower, my background stemmed from Human Services and Social Services. I have work
Government, and Local Social Service agencies. I discovered that the tech industry is where new jobs are in demand and became interested in learning new skills to pursue a career change. I learned about NPower through a Hire Our Heroes job coach and decided to apply.
Despite many personal setbacks during the program, I was able to complete my Google IT cer-
employable, and necessary skills in tech to navigate a variety of IT roles and start a new career path for a brighter future.
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Yuki Tan 25, Hayward, California
Tracy Van Buren U.S. Army Los Angeles, CA
for the past 5 years I’ve worked in different clihave had to go back to school, but because I am the main source of income for my family, that option was not feasible. A fellow mother told me program that landed her in a great position to provide a better life for her and her children. The opportunity with NPower couldn’t have come at a better time. A tragedy occurred in my family -
tically plummeted. This new chapter gave me a sense of hope and an opportunity to gain con-
Before NPower I was going to school at SJSU for class in high school, I’ve known I wanted to work in technology. My friend, who is an alumnus of the program, told me about all the opportunities NPower offers and recommended it would be a -
mentary school students in an after-school program. It taught me life lessons like leadership and effective communication with both parents and students.
I’m most proud of a few of my achievements in-llege, earning my Associates Degree, many of the Graphic Design projects I completed, and now completing the NPower program. After graduation I hope to pursue a career in cyber security, data analytics, or IT technology.
Alyssa Vargas Sacramento, CA
Luis Vasquez 26, San Jose, CA
Cesar Villasenor Antunez
21,
Vallejo, California
Before starting NPower I was an overworked and underpaid cashier at a fast-food restaurant. -
complished and had an urgency to create a ful-
began losing huge sales. A technician was called and began troubleshooting the computer. As I observed the tech, I became curious and asked
Before starting NPower, I was a Behavior Change Manager with The Geo Group. During my time with The Geo Group, I managed a case load of assist them with a successful transition into the
needed to enter the industry. Later in the week, a friend told me about a program he thought I should apply to, NPower Tech Fundamentals.
My time at NPower was not only an educationalring the program, I gained industry-recognized skills like troubleshooting hardware and software issues. The instructors and social support managers were very helpful every step of the way. The program opened a plethora of new opportunities and career paths. After graduation, I will continue to pursue higher education to advance my knowledge of technology.
of Science in Criminal Justice from California State University, Sacramento. I decided I wanted to be involved in tech after conducting research on the technological advances we have as a society. During my NPower training, my favorite thing I be and the creativity that can go into creating a system to operate as a computer. In a year, I see myself having an entry-level job in the tech industry. In 3 years, I see myself managing projects and building upon my tech skills.
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LaMirra Whitaker 26, Sacramento, CA
Before NPower I was working as a security guard, a package handler, and an athletic coach. Work has always had to be a priority for me. While working security I was always at tech sites andned they did. They would encourage me to learn more about it. Once work stopped being consistent, I realized it was time to do what I wanted, not what I had to.
A good friend of mine got his career started in tech through the NPower program and recommended it to me. During my time in the program, I have obtained my Google IT Support and ITF+
Before partaking in my journey at NPower, I was an at home mother with no other identity outside of the one my daughter and partner gave me. I yearned for a touch of self-actualization. Before motherhood, school delivered that for me. I always thought it would be costly to return. As I was scrolling through social media, I stumbled upon an ad for NPower. Immediately, I felt a calling and applied.
I can’t say that I always had a pursuit for a career in tech, but NPower has unlocked a deep interest knowledge, support, and consistency by myself, peers, and instructors. A pivotal part of my time here at NPower has been our professional development days. I believe the team has helped nurture the skills I already had. With easy access to help and support, it has never been easier to be--
Aypril Williams 26, Tracy, CA
Yocelyn Zaragoza 23, Richmond, CA
Spring 2023 Tech Fundamentals
Jesus Alvarez
Guadalupe Arellano
Oscar Banuelos
Abdellah Bouzidi
Matthew Brooks
Melissa Castaneda
Latoya Clark
Robert Coston
Yaneth Diaz
Nary Dunajski
Joseph Flores
Devyon Foster
Tim Gallegos
Oscar Garibay
Shengjie Guan
Kyle Guevara
Faisal Hamidi
Omar Harris
Ahmad Hazrati
De’Shan Howard
Brian Ikemoto
Ana Jasso
Yuahki Jones
Amrinderjeet Kaur
Tyzhon Kendricks
Tessia Laulu
View Highlights:
Richard Leung
Ryan Listberger
June Loaiza
Jason Louie
Robert Teley Marks
Betty Martin-Finneran
Joel Munoz
Martin Muthama
Gerald Newton
Austin Nguyen
Kevin Nguyen
Christopher Pedroza
Matthew Pena
Anthony Pham
Shabbir Rasooly
Joshua Ravalo
Robbie Robbins
Adham Saleh
Mina Semu
Micheal Shimmin
Daria Speranksa
Yuki Tan
Tracy Buren
Cesar Antunez
LaMirra Whitaker
Aypril Williams
Yocelyn Zaragoza
http://npower.org/graduation/spring-2023/california-techfundamentals/
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