Spotlight on Wenatchee Valley College

For those living in Eastern Washington and looking to break into the world of IT or cybersecurity, Wenatchee Valley College (WVC) offers a practical starting point with its Associate of Technical Science Degree in Computer Technology - Network Administration and its Data Center/IT Support Technician - Certificate of Completion. While not dedicated exclusively to cybersecurity training, these programs equip students with critical foundational skills in networking, server and domain maintenance, Linux, and technical support—essential stepping stones to a career in cybersecurity. 

A Solid Start for Future Cyber Professionals 

Instructor David Burns, who leads the program, emphasizes that WVC's goal is to prepare students for real-world, entry-level roles in local industries such as: 

• Healthcare (e.g., hospitals like Confluence and CBCH)
• Public Utility Districts (PUDs)
• School Districts
• Power and Utilities
• And increasingly, the Microsoft data centers sprouting up in the Wenatchee Valley

With the region’s low-cost electricity and expanding tech infrastructure, including support for AI and fusion power technologies, these employers are actively seeking qualified tech workers. WVC’s hands-on curriculum ensures graduates have the troubleshooting mindset and technical know-how to get their foot in the door. 

Cybersecurity Exposure Baked In 

Though the program is focused on network administration, cybersecurity basics are integrated throughout. Students learn about: 

• Security fundamentals in their CTS 222 class, aligned with CompTIA Security+ topics
• Penetration testing tools (e.g., Kali Linux)
• Windows Server management
• Group policy, mail server management, and Exchange environments
• A+ and Network+ level concepts

Burns notes that the coursework prepares students for industry certifications. Motivated students can pursue CompTIA A+, Network+, and work their way up to Security+. 

Training That Aligns with Local Demand 

WVC takes pride in aligning its program with regional workforce needs. The college offers a one-year certificate for students who are time- or funding-constrained, designed to meet the demands of entry-level tech support and data center technician roles. In fact, Microsoft has invested in scholarships for WVC students and plans to locate 85% of its new data centers in the Wenatchee Valley. 

Students benefit from hands-on labs, in-person collaboration, and direct access to local employers and internships. WVC also recently became a Prometric testing site, making it easier for students to sit for certification exams right on campus. 

Funding and Retraining Opportunities 

Many WVC students receive Worker Retraining funds, helping those who have been laid off transition into high-demand tech careers. Additional financial support comes from the Good Jobs Challenge grant, which provides exam vouchers and study resources to help students pursue certification. 

Real Success Stories 

Burns shared the story of a standout student who, after completing the two-year program and demonstrating self-motivated learning in programming, landed a job in the college’s own IT department. He's now managing network administration tasks and even writing automation scripts—proof that the WVC program can launch ambitious students into impactful careers. 

Final Thoughts 

While WVC’s program isn’t labeled as a “cybersecurity degree,” it’s a gateway into the cybersecurity workforce, especially for those who begin with a solid understanding of networks and systems. It’s a smart, affordable choice for students looking to launch careers locally in Eastern Washington’s growing tech economy. 

Learn more about Wenatchee Valley College’s Computer Technology Systems program and see how it can help you take the first step into a future in IT or cybersecurity.