The Byron Martin Advanced Technology Center (ATC) in Lubbock, Texas, serves as a hub for Career and Technical Education (CTE), offering students from five high schools in Lubbock ISD the opportunity to explore technology and career-focused courses. With a single IT teacher leading the charge, the program has grown significantly over the years, thanks to the integration of CompTIA’s CertMaster curriculum and support from the CompTIA Instructor Network. This partnership has empowered students to achieve industry-recognized certifications and prepared them for successful careers in technology.
The challenge
As the only IT teacher at the Byron Martin ATC, Brandon Grace wanted to build a comprehensive and scalable IT program that could meet the needs of students across multiple high schools. The program needed to:
- Provide a robust curriculum that prepares students for real-world IT careers.
- Offer resources and support to help students earn industry certifications.
- Keep up with the growing demand for technology education, including the addition of cybersecurity courses.
With limited resources and a growing student base, the program required a partner who could provide the tools and support necessary for success.
The solution
Brandon turned to CompTIA’s CertMaster curriculum and the CompTIA Instructor Network (CIN) to address these challenges. Key elements of the solution included:
- CertMaster curriculum: This provided the necessary labs, lessons, and support materials to create a successful and engaging learning environment. The curriculum was fully integrated with CompTIA’s certification pathways, ensuring students were prepared for exams like A+, Network+, and Security+.
- CompTIA Instructor Network: This network offered a wealth of resources, including shared worksheets, guest speaker opportunities, and access to some of the best minds in education across the nation. Educators could ask questions, share ideas, and collaborate to improve their programs.
- Student support: Through CompTIA, students received the same level of support as their educators, ensuring they had the tools and guidance needed to succeed in their certification exams and future careers.
The results
The partnership with CompTIA has led to significant growth and success for the IT program at Byron Martin ATC:
- Program expansion: The program has grown to include cybersecurity courses, providing students with even more opportunities to explore in-demand fields.
- Student success stories: Many students have passed CompTIA certification exams and secured high-paying jobs. For example, one student was hired by McAfee Antivirus straight out of high school, earning $80,000 annually without any college credits.
- Career readiness: Students who complete the program leave with a significant advantage in the job market, whether they pursue tech-related careers or other fields.
- Educator growth: The CompTIA Instructor Network has provided invaluable support, enabling the teacher to grow the program and better prepare students for success.
In partnering with CompTIA, Brandon has transformed the IT program, providing students with the skills, certifications, and confidence to excel in their careers. The program demonstrates the power of industry-recognized certifications in opening doors for students and highlights the importance of a strong support network for educators. CompTIA’s resources have been instrumental in growing the program and ensuring its continued success.