Certifications Earned:
CompTIA Security+, PC Pro, IT Fundamentals
Brandon Howell, a graduate of Archer High School, always had a passion for technology. Growing up, video games were more than just a hobby—they were his escape and a way to navigate the challenges of life. But as he delved deeper into gaming, he began noticing security vulnerabilities within the games he loved. This sparked a desire to pursue a technology career, particularly cybersecurity.
Discovering a path to tech
Although Brandon always knew he wanted to work in tech—whether it was building computers or exploring cybersecurity—he wasn’t sure how to get started. That all changed one day during lunch at school when he noticed a poster advertising dual enrollment classes, including technical school programs. On a whim, he signed up, not realizing how much this decision would shape his future.
A few months later, Brandon received an email confirming his acceptance into Grayson Technical School. From that moment, his journey into the world of technology truly began.
CompTIA certifications: A foundation for success
Enrolling in the tech program transformed Brandon’s high school experience. While he had always been able to handle his coursework, the technical school gave him something he hadn’t had before—a passion for learning. His newfound love for technology motivated him to excel not only in his technical classes but also in his core high school subjects.
The program was designed to balance the workload while ensuring students gained valuable knowledge in their chosen fields. For Brandon, the certifications he earned during the program were game-changers. Over the course of two years, he achieved certifications like Security Pro and PC Pro, as well as foundational certifications like IT Fundamentals. These certifications, aligned with CompTIA’s industry-recognized standards, became key resume builders and stepping stones for his career.
One of the most significant milestones in Brandon’s journey was his preparation for the CompTIA Security+ certification. The technical school’s curriculum, which incorporated CompTIA-aligned objectives and resources, gave Brandon the knowledge and confidence needed to pursue this highly regarded certification. The Security+ certification, known for validating essential cybersecurity skills, is a critical credential for anyone entering the field.
Building confidence with CompTIA resources
Brandon credits much of his success to the support and resources his technical school and CompTIA provided. The program introduced him to tools like TestOut’s Security Pro, which is aligned with CompTIA Security+ objectives, and hands-on learning opportunities that prepared him for real-world scenarios.
Additionally, his teacher played a pivotal role in encouraging students to believe in their potential. “You don’t need a PhD or a privileged background to succeed in tech,” his teacher would say. This message, combined with the accessibility of CompTIA certifications, gave Brandon the confidence to pursue his dreams.
The program also introduced Brandon to opportunities like CyberPatriot, a national cybersecurity competition, which further fueled his interest in the field. With the foundational knowledge and certifications he gained, Brandon is now on the verge of earning his CompTIA Security+ certification—a significant milestone that will open doors to a wide range of cybersecurity roles.
CompTIA: Empowering the next generation
Brandon’s journey from a video game enthusiast to a budding cybersecurity professional is a testament to the power of passion, opportunity, and the right resources. CompTIA’s certifications, including IT Fundamentals—now rebranded as Tech+—and Security+, were crucial in equipping him with the skills and confidence needed to succeed in the tech industry.
For students like Brandon, programs integrating CompTIA certifications into their curriculum are opening doors to exciting technological careers. These certifications not only validate technical skills but also provide a clear pathway for students to transition from the classroom to the workforce.
Looking ahead
Brandon’s story is proof that with the right resources, guidance, and determination, anyone can turn their passion into a successful career. His technical school experience, combined with the power of CompTIA certifications, laid the foundation for his future in cybersecurity.
If you’re a student wondering how to break into the tech field, take inspiration from Brandon’s journey. With CompTIA certifications and programs like Grayson Technical School, the opportunities are endless—you just need to take the first step.