When St. Petersburg College co-hosts the annual International Technology Council (ITC) eLearning Conference Feb. 19-22 at the Tradewinds Resort, ITC and SPC will present the 2017 Outstanding Online Student Award to College of Computer and Information Technology student William Wantling.

Wantling began his online journey to a degree in Fall 2015, but before that, his life had spiraled to a low point. He’d worked in the IT field for 18 years, but emerging technologies had outpaced his credentials, so he found himself unemployable in IT.

“For several years I struggled trying to get back into any type of IT job, but found myself stuck in more customer service roles,” Wantling said.

This, coupled with other personal issues, increased his personal struggle.

“I was severely depressed and found myself homeless for nearly a year,” Wantling said. “I have always been professionally employed, but found after a while I had nothing to look forward to.”

In April of 2015, Wantling landed a full-time position, which allowed him to get his own apartment near SPC’s Downtown Campus. He visited the Admissions Department there, which set him on course to change his life.

“With the help of the admissions department, I was able to get Pell Grants and financial aid and began my first online course in the Fall Semester,” he said.

Wantling enrolled in the Computer Support Certificate program, achieved a lifelong dream of being CompTIA A+ certified, then earned a Microsoft Technology Associate Certificate for Windows Server. He credits his instructors for their support, especially Downtown IT Academic Chair Laura Malave.

“Ms. Malave met with me and encouraged me to continue my journey and get further certifications,” he said. “I spoke to her every few weeks, giving her status updates, and she encouraged me to continue my education by switching to the A.S. Degree in Cybersecurity. I just got my CompTIA Network + certification, and if it wasn’t for the encouragement of Ms. Malave, it wouldn’t have been something I thought I could accomplish.”

Malave said Wantling is a dedicated and enthusiastic student, fully deserving of his award, which brings not only recognition, but includes a $500 stipend.

“William works very diligently to excel in his coursework and also to complete industry certifications,” she said. “He has demonstrated outstanding scholarship through online coursework, while working and studying for industry certifications. He is also active in campus life. I look forward to his continued academic and career success.”

Wantling is now 48 years old, working 35 hours a week at his job and taking a full load of online classes. He said SPC’s CCIT online courses are challenging but rewarding.

“I now have the skills needed to resume a career in Information Technology, with many opportunities. I am indebted to the instructors, staff, Ms. Malave and Dean Setterlind for the support and assistance in getting my education. I am once again becoming a productive member of society.”