St. Petersburg College Networking Technology grad Isaiah Chavez likes to get things done. With a vivacious personality and an enthusiastic attitude, it’s of little surprise that he has succeeded in his academic and occupational endeavors. Chavez received multiple degrees and certifications at SPC, and is currently pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Information Systems from the University of South Florida, with a focus on Informational Security. Determination is an apparatus he carries on his journey down the path of life, and he won’t hesitate to use it whenever necessary.

Upskilling

Chavez’s story began like that of many other students at SPC and across the nation – he wanted more for himself. Specifically, he wanted to be a valued employee at his company, and he wanted his employer to know that he was keeping up with new technology by continuing his education. Most of all, he wanted to make a living wage, own a home and be financially autonomous in an economy that is often unkind even to those who work hard. Chavez began his education at SPC as a nontraditional student with high hopes and substantial goals. He loved working in radio and TV and thus decided to continue his education in his field with the intent of achieving his dreams.

Chavez earned an associate degree in Networking Technologies and several other certifications from SPC. Never one to miss an opportunity, he also took the time to receive his CRO – Certified Radio Operator, CTO – Certified TV Operator, CBT – Certified Broadcast Technologist, and A+ certifications through the college’s Career Connections department. Due to his academic achievements and his insatiable drive for success, Chavez has been able to work in several different positions at his current employer over the last seven years.

Tools for Success

Despite a drive for success, Chavez still encountered a few barriers as he pushed toward his goals. As he attended classes and studied for his certifications, he was working two jobs and running his own business. There didn’t seem to be enough hours in the day, but he divvied up his time sensibly so that he could accomplish his goals. By managing his time effectively and by using a daily planner, Chavez found himself pushing past the barrier of time.

Chavez gave a special thanks to SPC’s Certification Testing Coordinator Julia Meyer for her support.

“Julia is a one-of a kind woman,” he said. “She bends backwards to help you succeed. I contribute a lot of my success to her.”

Dreams Are Within Reach

The need to succeed is something that motivates us all to plod onward, despite any obstacles blocking our path. Sometimes those barriers are small to medium in size, like road cones or sink holes that we can stop and assess how to best navigate around. Other times, they are colossal beasts that tower over us, warning us of potential failure. Any obstacle can be daunting and stressful to traverse, let alone actually bypass. Yet no matter the challenge, finding determination and using it to fuel our actions is how we push past these obstacles to succeed.

Chavez eagerly advises anyone who is interested in pursuing a certification from SPC to go for it.

“What do you have to lose? What more can you ask for? If you study properly, and SPC gives you lots of study materials to help you be successful, you shouldn’t have a problem with any sort of barriers,” he said. “When you stack your certifications with your SPC degree, you’re unstoppable.”

Chavez’s passion for his goals is inspiring and encouraging, but it is also a notable reminder that determination lies within us all.

As Isaiah says, “You just gotta relax, breathe, and you will succeed!”

Check out all of St. Petersburg College’s Technology programs here.