Tech Impactors Network: Insights on Tech Education
The California WGU Tech Impactors Network recently hosted its inaugural virtual event, sparking an engaging conversation about the future of the I.T. industry. The event featured a spotlight panel with co-chairs Jane Chung, Terrance Cooley, and 2023 Distinguished Grad Jerry Davis. Perspectives from WGU and Calbright students enriched the dialogue, all contributing to the network's mission of creating pathways to opportunity through education and mentorship.
Dr. David C. Huff, WGU Associate Dean and Director of Academic Programs for the B.S. in Network Operations and Security, kicked off the event by highlighting the impressive growth of WGU's School of I.T. Last year alone, enrollment surged by 36%, increasing from 41,000 to over 56,000 students. This year, nearly 11,500 students enrolled, with women representing 20% of the total enrollment and almost half of these female students identifying as Black, Latina, or Native American. Over 1,300 women joined the program last year.
Terrance Cooley, Tech Impactors Network Co-chair
Dr. Huff also emphasized the school's efforts to foster inclusive communities. "The School of I.T. has launched the Society of Women Engineers and the National Society of Black Engineers while amplifying initiatives like the Women in Tech club, alumni networks, and the B4 Women in Tech initiative. These programs aim to create community opportunities that support students from diverse backgrounds in achieving their academic goals," he explained.
Dr. Jane Chung, Tech Impactors Network Co-chair
Inspiring Journeys: Leadership, Perseverance, and the Transformative Power of Tech Education
Co-chair of the Tech Impactors Network, Dr. Jane Chung, a managing director at Deloitte and three-time WGU alumna, shared the network's vision and mission. She, along with co-chair Master Sergeant Terrance Cooley of the U.S. Air Force and WGU alum, participated in a panel discussion with Jerry Davis, highlighting their educational journeys and pathways into technology.
Jerry Davis’s story exemplifies perseverance and the transformative power of education. “I’ve been in every category WGU serves—underserved communities, underrepresented populations, military veterans. At 13, I was homeless and living in a park in Southern California. I never imagined I would be where I am today, and a large part of that is thanks to WGU,” said Jerry.
Jerry’s journey began in the early 2000s when he worked in I.T. and cybersecurity without a degree. Initially skeptical of WGU's affordability and low barriers to entry, Jerry soon realized the university offered the opportunity he needed to advance his career. After earning his degree, he quickly became a senior executive in the federal government by age 36. His success demonstrates WGU's ability to validate self-taught skills, provide flexible education, and accelerate career growth.
His story has also inspired others—four relatives have since enrolled in or graduated from WGU programs. WGU has become a family tradition from cybersecurity to business, highlighting the university’s transformative impact on underserved communities.
Building Community Partnerships to Drive Tech Inclusion and Career Growth
The Tech Impactors Network's strength lies in building strong community relationships to effect change. During the event, the spotlight turned to NPower, a national nonprofit focused on creating pathways to prosperity through careers in the tech industry. Their work centers on military-connected individuals, young adults (ages 18-26), and military spouses, with an end goal of job placement in tech through internships, apprenticeships, and direct hires.
The event also featured TechSF, an initiative of the San Francisco Office of Economic and Workforce Development. Orrian Willis explained how TechSF aims to bridge the digital divide in San Francisco, where 10% of households lack consistent access to the internet or devices.
NPower Support Staff
Since its launch in 2012, TechSF has provided residents accessible on-ramp, intermediate, and advanced tech training, focusing on helping them attain well-paying tech jobs in a city where the cost of living is prohibitively high.
“With all the wealth generated in and around tech, we’re working to create more opportunities for locals to attain jobs with self-sufficiency,” said Willis. “In San Francisco, you're considered low-income unless earning $110,000 a year. TechSF helps bridge that gap.”
Pablo Vigil, current WGU student
Student Success Stories: Overcoming Barriers Through Education and Opportunity
The personal stories of students like Pablo Vigil and Alicia Rangel further demonstrated the life-changing potential of these programs.
Pablo, a Richmond Promise scholar and WGU student, shared his financial struggle and educational discovery journey. Caught between earning too much to qualify for financial aid and not enough to afford tuition, he was at a crossroads. After a year of working and reflecting, Pablo discovered WGU and the Tech Impactors Network and is now thriving in his program.
Alicia Rangel, a Calbright student, described her journey of self-reliance after moving to Oakland at 18. Determined to break the cycle of low-wage work that plagued her family, she sought education to create a better future for herself. Through Calbright, Rangel joined the Excel program, which helped her build soft skills and secure an apprenticeship with Accenture in San Francisco. Alicia credits her educational journey with giving her the confidence to seize opportunities she never thought possible.
The Tech Impactors Network continues to play a crucial role in advancing tech careers for non-traditional talent. As the network grows, it invites organizations to contribute internships, mentorship, and educational opportunities for the community. Together, initiatives like TechSF, WGU, and NPower are shaping the future of tech education—making it more inclusive, accessible, and transformative.
Join the Movement
If your organization is interested in internships or educational contributions, the Tech Impactors Network encourages you to join the conversation and help bridge the gap for California’s future tech leaders.
To learn more and join the Tech Impactors Network, click here.
