When it comes to being certified in various aspects of computer technology, Gary Leonard of Sullivan County, a student in the Computer Information Technology program at the Tennessee Technology Center at Elizabethton, believes "more is better" in order to enhance his marketability in the job market.
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| Gary Leonard |
Leonard has received certification in six specialized areas of computer technology, including IC3 (Microsoft Office online basic e-mail setups and power point), A+, Network+, Security+, Cabling and Fiber Optics.
"If it were not for the computer class, materials, equipment and hands-on experience at TTC-Elizabethton, it would have been extremely difficult for me to take the certification tests," he said.
With A+ Certification, Leonard said he studied for three months for the two-part exam. "I took both parts of the test at the same sitting and had a perfect score on both parts," he said.
Depending upon the type of test, there are approximately 100 multiple choice questions to be answered in 90 minutes. Questions deal with repair, professionalism, customer service and the environment.
Leonard said Security+ Certification is desired by financial institutions to prevent hacking and to identify viruses affecting their customers.
"Each certification specializes in a certain field. When combined together, it gives you a competitive advantage in the marketplace. You are more marketable in the job market as a result," Leonard said.
In recognition of his proficiency in the classroom and beyond, Leonard was named Student of the Month at TTC-Elizabethton. After graduating from Tennessee High School in Bristol, Leonard attended college one semester.
He was employed by Superior Industry, a manufacturing plant in Johnson City, until the plant ceased local operations. Leonard next visited the Tennessee Career Center to seek employment assistance. At the Career Center, he learned about the Trade Readjustment Act, which pays the cost to retrain displaced workers.
After receiving a TRA grant, Leonard decided to attend the Tennessee Technology Center at Elizabethton "because students there are not required to go through all the math, English and psychology courses required at a two or four-year college or university. I wanted to return to the workplace in the shortest period of time."
By 2020, Leonard believes technology will be an integral part of daily life. "Some people try to avoid emerging technology. Eventually, you are going to see widespread use of the iphone, blue tooth, wireless, internet cafe and free wifi. Everything is going to be computerized and more efficient. Paper trails will be turned into electronic documents that can be tracked," Leonard said.
On the subject of privacy, Leonard believes data, personal data and technology are at a point where data can be secured. "Why it is not as effective as it should be is the fact many individuals are still using manual documents...they don't understand how to secure data. Some companies don't know how to secure data and protect it. It is a major issue right now," Leonard said.
According to Leonard, many companies, including credit card companies, have a false sense of security in believing their data is secure. "They don't believe an outside individual can hack into their system and steal the financial data. If they don't have all the right security in place, then their data is vulnerable," he said.
Is there a way to prevent computer hacking that originates in foreign countries? "I don't believe regulation of the Internet will be effective because a lot of the issues are overseas and you are dealing with international enforcement. Laws in the United States are different," said Leonard, who encouraged computer users to "back up your data and ensure it is secure."
"I never really thought that I could have a dream job of turning a hobby into a career," said Leonard, who desires to open his own Computer Networking business."In reality, I may work a year or two to get experience," said Leonard, who is scheduled to graduate from TTC-Elizabethton this spring.