Southwest Virginia Community College student Bruce Russell considers himself a life-long learner. From working on guided missile systems in the Navy to teaching a class full of children in a local school system, Russell is constantly looking for a new challenge. After teaching and working as a speech pathologist for 10 years, he decided it was time to move on to his next challenge.
Not sure what that challenge would be, Russell started exploring his options. Then he heard about the high-tech companies that were locating in the region and their need for programmers. Intrigued, he attended a job fair held by CGI and was interviewed. “At the interview, they asked if I had any programming experience. I admitted that I didn’t. They told me I needed to re-tool myself.”
At the time, there was no way for Russell to retrain for a high-tech career without entering a four-year program at a college or university. Then he heard about the on-line Fast Track program for software development offered by SwVCC. The program offers individuals a way to quickly acquire the skills to become a computer programmer. The 34-week program is designed for individuals possessing a two-year or four-year degree. The Fast Track program is web-based and utilizes the Breeze macromedia system.
Russell was accepted into the inaugural class that began this past August. “The program is a rapid re-tooling of people’s skills so that they may enter the workforce prepared. I hope to finish this program and get a job as a programmer/analyst. I feel this is an excellent opportunity for me, other students, the region, and CGI.” Upon completion of the program, students are guaranteed an interview at CGI.
Even though he quit his teaching job, he has another full-time job as a stay-at-home dad to his daughters who are two and four years old. He acknowledges that his family remains a top priority. “It is all about a balance between work and school. Sometimes I have to take a break from school work to read Dr. Seuss.”
“I think this new direction into computer programming will allow me to utilize my teaching skills and other professional skills,” said Russell. Still, he has had to change gears for the program. “I am determined. I am a good communicator, a wordsmith. This is a huge change for me. However, I have strong will power. I know I can do it.”
For students who want a slower-paced program, Southwest also offers an Associate Degree in Information Systems Technology through day, evening, and web classes.
For more information about the Fast Track program contact, Dr. Barbara Fuller, Dean of the Business Division at 276.964.7278 or barbara.fuller@sw.edu.