WESTERN GOVERNORS UNIVERSITY
School of Technology Virtual Events
At Western Governors University's School of Technology, we aim to give you the skills and training you need to be marketable in the information technology field. We offer high-quality online degree programs in Computer Science/Software Engineering, Cybersecurity, Data Science, and IT/Cloud. We also provide top industry certifications, included in our tuition.
Boost your résumé with the valuable online information technology degree and certifications you need to impress employers and be prepared for a successful career.
Connect with industry leaders live and in real-time or to learn about the program offerings and the unique competency-based model WGU has to offer.
Key Statistics for WGU's School of Technology
94% full-time employed graduates
65% of graduates plan to pursue another degree or certification
31,000+ current graduates
Dean's Fireside Chat Series
Join WGU at the Dean's Fireside Chat series, led by Joe Dery, VP and Dean. These engaging events bring together a diverse community of students, professionals, and enthusiasts eager to explore career opportunities and personal growth. Each session features guest speakers from various industries, offering invaluable insights and sharing their unique journeys. Whether you're a student charting your academic path, a professional navigating the workforce, or someone simply seeking inspiration, these chats are designed to ignite your passion and expand your horizons.
Hosted bi-monthly on LinkedIn Live, these events provide an interactive platform where attendees can connect, learn, and network with like-minded individuals. Don't miss out on this opportunity to gain knowledge, motivation, and guidance to reach your professional potential.
Tune in For The Next Episode Soon!
Meet the Host
Veronika Durgin is an experienced data and analytics leader with over two decades of experience. Throughout her career, Veronika has developed skills in database administration, data engineering, platform architecture, data modeling, and analytics. In her current role as the Vice President of Data at Saks, the premier luxury e-commerce platform, Veronika is responsible for the overall data strategy, from driving enterprise digital transformation and governing enterprise data to enabling and supporting data engineering, analytics, and data science efforts. Veronika is a Certified Data Vault Practitioner and a Snowflake Data Superhero. She is passionate about her profession and sharing knowledge with others. Veronika is a frequent speaker at data conferences and events as well as an active mentor in the data community.
Veronika earned a master’s degree in computer software engineering from Brandeis University and a bachelor’s degree in biology from the University of Massachusetts, Boston. She lives in Massachusetts with her husband and two boys.
Joe Dery, PHD
WGU College of IT's VP & Dean of Data Analytics, Computer Science, and Software Engineering
Meet the Guest
Breonna Jones
Data Support Analyst @ Orleans Parish District Attorney’s Office (MSDA)
Breonna Jones is a skilled data analyst who uses data-driven insights to address environmental challenges. With a Bachelor’s in Marine Biology and a Master’s in Data Analytics, she excels at the intersection of science and technology for ocean conservation.Breonna has led drone imagery projects to enhance conservation efforts, including kelp analysis, seabird quantification, and coral reef restoration. She notably developed Mo’orea, French Polynesia’s first interactive coral restoration siting map, integrating environmental data with AI segmentation.Currently, Breonna works at the Orleans Parish District Attorney’s office, analyzing overdose fatality rates to help prevent drug-related crime and improve public safety strategies. In her free time, Breonna is an avid adventurer and nature enthusiast. She enjoys hiking, water sports like kayaking, snorkeling, and diving, baking, and spending time with her cat.
Meet the Guest
Veronika Durgin is an experienced data and analytics leader with over two decades of experience. Throughout her career, Veronika has developed skills in database administration, data engineering, platform architecture, data modeling, and analytics. In her current role as the Vice President of Data at Saks, the premier luxury e-commerce platform, Veronika is responsible for the overall data strategy, from driving enterprise digital transformation and governing enterprise data to enabling and supporting data engineering, analytics, and data science efforts. Veronika is a Certified Data Vault Practitioner and a Snowflake Data Superhero. She is passionate about her profession and sharing knowledge with others. Veronika is a frequent speaker at data conferences and events as well as an active mentor in the data community.
Veronika earned a master’s degree in computer software engineering from Brandeis University and a bachelor’s degree in biology from the University of Massachusetts, Boston. She lives in Massachusetts with her husband and two boys.
"Obi is a WGU Distinguished Graduate, an honor she received in 2023. She is a Software Engineer with expertise in Distributed Computing systems. She earned her bachelor’s degree in software development from WGU in 2021. As the founding president of the WGU Women in Tech club, she established an accountability group that has grown to include over 2,300 students and alumni. Obianuju remains an active alumni advisor, inspiring others to advance their careers through mentorship, knowledge sharing, and empowering others to succeed. She also co-developed and leads the Women in Tech (B4 Women in Tech) Alumni Ambassador program, furthering her impact at WGU. Additionally, she continues to contribute to expanding STEM education for underserved communities through her involvement with various non-profits.
Meet the Guest
Veronika Durgin is an experienced data and analytics leader with over two decades of experience. Throughout her career, Veronika has developed skills in database administration, data engineering, platform architecture, data modeling, and analytics. In her current role as the Vice President of Data at Saks, the premier luxury e-commerce platform, Veronika is responsible for the overall data strategy, from driving enterprise digital transformation and governing enterprise data to enabling and supporting data engineering, analytics, and data science efforts. Veronika is a Certified Data Vault Practitioner and a Snowflake Data Superhero. She is passionate about her profession and sharing knowledge with others. Veronika is a frequent speaker at data conferences and events as well as an active mentor in the data community.
Veronika earned a master’s degree in computer software engineering from Brandeis University and a bachelor’s degree in biology from the University of Massachusetts, Boston. She lives in Massachusetts with her husband and two boys.
Chaz Darvish is a tech leader who has navigated an unconventional path from culinary arts to data-driven decision making. His early career in fine dining laid the foundation for his attention to detail and passion for problem-solving; skills that have served him well in his transition into IT. Through self-directed learning and hands-on experience, Chaz has developed expertise in data analytics and project management. Recently, he formalized this journey by earning a Bachelor of Science in Data Analytics from Western Governors University. As Head of Strategy and Analytics, Chaz leads a team that applies data science and technology expertise to drive strategic initiatives and improve the delivery of IT services, leveraging data engineering, analytics, and generative tools to inform technical decisions and drive process improvements.
Women Leaders in Cybersecurity
Advance Your Tech Career
When: Wednesday, October 2, 11:00 am MT
Cybersecurity is a rewarding profession for women. In a 2024 ISC2 study, 76% of women in cybersecurity roles reported job satisfaction, though only 20-25% of cybersecurity workers identify as women, and even fewer women (17%) are in Fortune 500 CISO roles (the most executive rank within the security world). Now is the time to change that. With the cybersecurity industry facing skilled workforce shortages nationwide, women can grow in their careers. In this free LinkedIn Live, co-produced by Western Governors University and Advancing Women in Tech, a panel of cybersecurity leaders will discuss.
- Why women can excel in cyber leadership
- Best ways to advance your career
- How to navigate common barriers to promotion
- The skills and credentials necessary to become a cybersecurity leader
For all women who would like to move into cybersecurity leadership positions, there is a path forward. This conversation will help you to get there. Join us!
Meet the Host
Veronika Durgin is an experienced data and analytics leader with over two decades of experience. Throughout her career, Veronika has developed skills in database administration, data engineering, platform architecture, data modeling, and analytics. In her current role as the Vice President of Data at Saks, the premier luxury e-commerce platform, Veronika is responsible for the overall data strategy, from driving enterprise digital transformation and governing enterprise data to enabling and supporting data engineering, analytics, and data science efforts. Veronika is a Certified Data Vault Practitioner and a Snowflake Data Superhero. She is passionate about her profession and sharing knowledge with others. Veronika is a frequent speaker at data conferences and events as well as an active mentor in the data community.
Veronika earned a master’s degree in computer software engineering from Brandeis University and a bachelor’s degree in biology from the University of Massachusetts, Boston. She lives in Massachusetts with her husband and two boys.
Paul Bingham
Senior Vice President and Executive Dean at Western Governors University’s School of Technology
Paul Bingham is the Senior Vice President and Executive Dean at Western Governors University’s School of Technology, where he leads faculty serving 11 undergraduate and three graduate degree programs with a combined enrollment of over 58,000 students. Prior to WGU, Paul spent 24 years as an FBI Agent, leading and managing domestic and international cybersecurity investigations and FBI SWAT teams on over 100 high-risk tactical missions. Paul holds several professional certifications, including CISSP and CPA. Combining in-depth knowledge with his trademark sense of humor, Paul is an accomplished educator at conferences and events throughout the US and abroad.
Meet the Panelist
Kelli Burns,
Senior Vice President, Chief Information Security Officer (CISO) at Accolade
Kelli is the Senior Vice President, Chief Information Security Officer (CISO) at Accolade, a healthcare company. Prior to joining Accolade, Kelli held multiple positions at Symetra Financial, including serving as CISO. She also was the founding leader and executive sponsor for Symetra’s Diversity and Inclusion Council and developed their IT Emerging Leaders enterprise program. She is well-regarded in the Seattle community for mentoring women in cybersecurity and technology.
Meet the Panelist
Veronika Durgin is an experienced data and analytics leader with over two decades of experience. Throughout her career, Veronika has developed skills in database administration, data engineering, platform architecture, data modeling, and analytics. In her current role as the Vice President of Data at Saks, the premier luxury e-commerce platform, Veronika is responsible for the overall data strategy, from driving enterprise digital transformation and governing enterprise data to enabling and supporting data engineering, analytics, and data science efforts. Veronika is a Certified Data Vault Practitioner and a Snowflake Data Superhero. She is passionate about her profession and sharing knowledge with others. Veronika is a frequent speaker at data conferences and events as well as an active mentor in the data community.
Veronika earned a master’s degree in computer software engineering from Brandeis University and a bachelor’s degree in biology from the University of Massachusetts, Boston. She lives in Massachusetts with her husband and two boys.
Lena Smart
Chief Information Security Officer (CISO) at MongoDB
Lena Smart was most recently the Chief Information Security Officer (CISO) at MongoDB, where she led the company’s global security efforts. With over 20 years of experience in cybersecurity, Lena has a proven track record of building and managing security teams for large enterprises. Before joining MongoDB in March 2019, she served as the Global CISO at Tradeweb, an international fintech company, and held roles as CIO and Chief Security Officer at the New York Power Authority12. Lena is also an active member of the cybersecurity community, contributing as a founding partner of Cybersecurity at MIT Sloan (CAMS) and previously serving as a Sector Chief with FBI InfraGard2. Her leadership and expertise continue to drive MongoDB’s commitment to providing industry-leading security solutions and education2.
Meet the Panelist
Veronika Durgin is an experienced data and analytics leader with over two decades of experience. Throughout her career, Veronika has developed skills in database administration, data engineering, platform architecture, data modeling, and analytics. In her current role as the Vice President of Data at Saks, the premier luxury e-commerce platform, Veronika is responsible for the overall data strategy, from driving enterprise digital transformation and governing enterprise data to enabling and supporting data engineering, analytics, and data science efforts. Veronika is a Certified Data Vault Practitioner and a Snowflake Data Superhero. She is passionate about her profession and sharing knowledge with others. Veronika is a frequent speaker at data conferences and events as well as an active mentor in the data community.
Veronika earned a master’s degree in computer software engineering from Brandeis University and a bachelor’s degree in biology from the University of Massachusetts, Boston. She lives in Massachusetts with her husband and two boys.
Brittney Carter-Adebusuyi
(WGU Alum), GRC Lead at Assura Inc.
Brie Carter is a GRC Lead with over eight years of experience with a robust background in vulnerability management, information security, and compliance. Her career includes roles as a Vulnerability Management Analyst, Information Security Officer, Cybersecurity Consultant, and Compliance Analyst. Brie is a Certified Ethical Hacker and a Certified Cloud Practitioner, and she holds a master’s degree in Cybersecurity and Information Assurance from Western Governors University.
Confessions of a CIA Spy
The Art of Human Hacking
When: Wednesday, October 2, 2024 at 11:00 MT
Agenda
Most successful data breaches are initiated by human hacking. Threat actors carefully select, assess, and manipulate key employees within a target organization who become the “insider threat.” Advanced social engineering techniques effectively circumvent the policies, procedures, and technological controls to safeguard proprietary information, client data, and sensitive personnel records.
For over 20 years of his career with the Central Intelligence Agency, Peter developed expertise in identifying, assessing, and manipulating insiders to breach the security of target organizations in pursuit of high-value foreign intelligence. He now shares his insight to help protect organizations and employees against external threats.
The audience will leave with:
An understanding of external threat actors, their objectives, and how they use social media platforms to identify and assess employees as potential insider candidates.
How insider motivations and vulnerabilities are leveraged into the design and execution of advanced social engineering techniques including Spear Phishing, Smishing, Vishing, and Face-to-Face approaches
The evolution and impact of deepfake technology in human hacking schemes.
Three essential actionable tips to prevent falling victim to human hacking.
Meet the Speaker
Peter Warmka
Peter Warmka is a former Senior Intelligence Officer with the CIA, with over 20 years of experience breaching target organizations' security overseas. He is an Adjunct Professor at Webster University's Masters in Cybersecurity Program, Founder of Orlando, Florida-based firm Counterintelligence Institute, LLC, and author of the non-fiction books "Confessions of a CIA Spy - The Art of Human Hacking” and “Why Are You Messing with Me? – Senior Survival Guide on Fraud, Privacy, and Security.” He is passionate about using his expertise to help city, state, and federal government entities, non-profits, academic institutes, private companies, and individuals to safeguard their sensitive proprietary and personal data. In addition to conducting his signature training program, Mr. Warmka is a frequent conference speaker, guest podcaster, and author of numerous publications on social engineering and the manipulation of insiders.
Veronika Durgin is an experienced data and analytics leader with over two decades of experience. Throughout her career, Veronika has developed skills in database administration, data engineering, platform architecture, data modeling, and analytics. In her current role as the Vice President of Data at Saks, the premier luxury e-commerce platform, Veronika is responsible for the overall data strategy, from driving enterprise digital transformation and governing enterprise data to enabling and supporting data engineering, analytics, and data science efforts. Veronika is a Certified Data Vault Practitioner and a Snowflake Data Superhero. She is passionate about her profession and sharing knowledge with others. Veronika is a frequent speaker at data conferences and events as well as an active mentor in the data community.
Veronika earned a master’s degree in computer software engineering from Brandeis University and a bachelor’s degree in biology from the University of Massachusetts, Boston. She lives in Massachusetts with her husband and two boys.
School of Technology Open House
Stay tuned for the next Open House date!
Wednesday, March 6, at 6:00 pm MST
Are you ready to take the next step toward an exciting and fulfilling IT career? Join us at our next WGU College of IT Open House and unlock a world of possibilities.
At this exclusive event, you'll explore the cutting-edge competency-based model that sets WGU apart. Explore how this innovative approach can propel your IT journey forward faster and more effectively. Whether you're an aspiring coder, cybersecurity enthusiast, data wizard, or tech strategist, our expert staff will guide you toward the perfect IT career path tailored to your strengths and aspirations.
Meet and connect with our dedicated staff members, who are eager to share their insights and help you map out your educational and career goals. With their wealth of experience, you'll gain valuable insights into the IT industry's latest trends and demands.
During the Open House, you'll have the chance to participate in interactive breakout rooms, dive deep into the specific IT fields that intrigue you most, and get answers to your burning questions. Our breakout room sessions are designed to provide personalized attention, ensuring you leave with a clear vision of the road ahead.
Don't let this opportunity pass you by. The College of IT Open House is your gateway to an exciting future in the world of technology. Register now!
Breakout Rooms:
Join this breakout room to learn more about the B.S. Cyber Security and Information Assurance (BSCSIA) and the M.S. Cyber Security and Information Assurance (MSCSIA). These programs are designed for the IT professional preparing to excel in the discipline of Cyber Security and Assurance and leadership roles in the field.
Join this breakout room to learn more about our B.S. Network Engineering and Security (BSNES) program and associated tracks. This program is designed for the IT professionals who want to design, build, and maintain the secure networks that organizations run on.
Join the Data Analytics breakout room to learn more about the BS Data Analytics (BSDA) and the MS Data Analytics (MSDA) programs. These programs are designed for people interested in starting or elevating an analytics career by embracing all skill domains (within programming, math, and business influence) needed to truly effect change and drive measurable business value at nearly any company.
Join the Bachelor of Science in Software Engineering (BSSWE) breakout room if you want to build your career in the software industry. This program is ideal for those aspiring to be the architects and engineers behind cutting-edge software solutions. You'll delve into the art of software design, development methodologies, and creating robust applications that meet real-world needs. You will learn about all the different types of offerings that we have at WGU that will prepare you for a role in software engineering.
Join the Computer Science breakout room should you envision a future within the software domain, artificial intelligence, and algorithms. This pathway is tailored to visionaries aspiring to craft and engineer revolutionary software solutions. Computer Scientists think algorithmically and use mathematics to solve complex problems--later modeled in software programs. Dive into the realm of software design, master diverse development methodologies, and forge resilient applications tailored to real-world demands. Gain insight into the myriad offerings at WGU, equipping you with the skills to thrive in the dynamic realm of computer science.
The Bachelor’s in Cloud Computing breakout room will give you an overview of the Cloud programs, including AWS or Azure, or a multi-cloud specialization. It will also cover the 13 certifications and two WGU certificates available. WGU’s cloud programs can lead to jobs as cloud engineers, architects, or security analysts in various industries.
The Information Technology and Information Technology Management breakout room will cover the Bachelor’s in IT program, suitable for students new to IT or wanting to change careers. The Masters in IT program is for those who wish to advance their IT career. This session will also cover the Accelerated Masters in IT program, which combines both degrees into one program and can be completed in about four years, including all the certifications students can earn in any of these programs. If you are interested in jobs in the fields of IT analytics, networks, security, strategy, and leadership, attend the IT and IT Management breakout room for more information.
WGU Cybersecurity Series
WGU Studios and WGU's Cybersecurity Department have teamed up to create a series of captivating, informative, upbeat, and energetic broadcasts to address current, trending topics and issues in the world of cybersecurity.
Stay tuned for our next event!
Meet the Host:
Paul Bingham, CISSP, CPA, CFE
Senior Vice President and Executive Dean, School of Technology
Host of Cybersecurity Series
Computer Science / Software Engineering
Western Governors University’s College of Information Technology (COIT) offers robust computer science and software engineering degrees specifically designed to meet the fast-pace of change almost every organization faces in today’s hi-tech environment. Graduates are ready to seamlessly enter the workforce and increase their productivity and expertise. WGU is a pioneer in career-relevant, competency-based education. We remain the only institution offering competency-based degrees at scale, creating a model other colleges and universities are increasingly striving to replicate. WGU's Computer Science degree delivers in-demand skills such as logic, architecture and systems, data structures, Artificial Intelligence, and computer theory. WGU's Software Engineering degree offers scripting and programming skills, web development, mobile app development, user experience design, and software quality assurance. With over 4,000 graduates and 8,000 active students in these programs, we are setting the new standard in aligning workforce readiness to employer-needed skills in critical areas like financial tech software, real-time software, Internet of Things, gaming, etc.
Meet the Host:
Mike Peterson, Ph.D.
Associate Dean of Computer Science and Software Engineering (CS/SE), WGU
Host of CS/SE Open House
Virtual Open House for Future Software Engineering Students
Dr. Mike Peterson will be hosting a webinar to discuss the new software engineering program. You will have an opportunity to ask questions and hear from a software engineering panel, which includes a recent software graduate. The panel will feature our Vice President and Dean of Software Engineering, Associate Dean, a course instructor, a program mentor, a career advisor, and an enrollment counselor. In addition to the bachelor’s degree in software engineering, you will learn how WGU supports your journey from enrollment to graduation and beyond!
Registration will open soon for the next event!
Cybersecurity
WGU’s Cybersecurity programs are highly respected by both employers and learners. Our M.S. Cybersecurity program is ranked #3 by Fortune.com and has been recognized as a National Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense (CAE-CD) by the National Security Agency (NSA). We deliver three high caliber programs in the security sector:
- B.S. in Cybersecurity and Information Assurance
- B.S. in Network Engineering and Security
- M.S. in Cybersecurity and Information Assurance
We offer constantly updated and relevant courses in Secure Systems Analysis & Design, Web and Cloud Security, Hacking Countermeasures and Techniques, Network Engineering, Operations, and Network Security Management skills. We remain the only institution offering competency-based degrees at scale, creating a model other colleges and universities are increasingly striving to replicate. With over 13,500 graduates and 18,000 active students in these programs, we are setting the new standard in aligning workforce readiness to employer-needed skills in critical cybersecurity disciplines.
Data Analytics
Our data management and analytics degrees prepare graduates to serve as analytical change agents across a variety of industries & market sectors. Learners will master programming, math, and business influence skills in both our B.S. in Data Analytics (BSDA) and our M.S. in Data Analytics (MSDA). Scripting, data management, data wrangling, Python, R, machine learning and math skills, data science techniques, communication and critical thinking are all valuable skills that make our graduates high-value employees in almost any organization. With over 2,500 graduates and 3,000 active students our data analytics programs are expanding analytic skill sets that are critical to most any organization in today's high tech world.
WGU is a pioneer in career-relevant, competency-based education. We remain the only institution offering competency-based degrees at scale, creating a model other colleges and universities are increasingly striving to replicate.
Meet the Hosts:
Joe Dery, Ph.D.
Vice President and Dean of Data Analytics, Computer Science, & Software Engineering
WGU Host of Data Analytics Open House and Fireside Chat
Eric Lagally, Ph.D.
Associate Dean of Data Analytics, WGU
Host of Data Analytics Open House
Virtual Open House for Future Data Analytics Students
Dr. Dery and Dr. Lagally will be hosting this webinar to explain WGU's competency-based model of education and to discuss the analytics programs offered by WGU.
Register Today for the Next Open House:
Monday, August 21st at 6pm MT
Dean’s Fireside Chat: Data Analytics
Join Dean Dery on Wednesday, August 15th at 6pm MT for an engaging episode in LinkedIn Live with Kristen Kehrer, a thought leader in analytics, entrepreneur, and AI developer advocate. As the founder of Data Moves Me, LLC, and a LinkedIn Top Voice in Data Science & Analytics, Kristen's insights and experiences will ignite your curiosity in the transformative analytics field.
Log in to your LinkedIn account to save your spot and see the event details:
Speaker Bio:
Kristen Kehrer has been providing innovative & practical statistical modeling solutions in the utilities, healthcare, and eCommerce sectors since 2010. Alongside her professional accomplishments, she became a LinkedIn Top Voice in Data Science & Analytics in 2018. Kristen is also the founder of Data Moves Me, LLC, and has previously served as a faculty member and subject matter expert at the Emeritus Institute of Management and UC Berkeley Ext. She holds a Master of Science degree in Applied Statistics from Worcester Polytechnic Institute and a Bachelor of Science degree in Mathematics.
Joe Dery (WGU Dean of Data Analytics) and Kamal Distell (VP of Data Analytics and Data Science at Toyota)
Speakers (from top-left): Dean Joe Dery, Chitrang Shah, and Matthew Mesher
Featured Speakers (from left): Alicia Crowder, Amanda Dery, and Joe Dery
Featured Speakers (from top left): Dr. Joe Dery, Will Alden, Dr. Hema Seshadri, Matt Los Kamp, and Ranita Ghosh
Featured Speakers (from left): Dr. Ken Yu Zhang and Dr. Joe Dery
Featured Speakers (from top left): Dr. Joe Dery and Dr. Ben Flusberg
Featured Speakers (from left): Mandy Plante and Dr. Joe Dery
Featured Speakers (from top left): Dr. Joe Dery, Cindi Howson, and Jori Derrey
Featured Speakers (from left): Dr. Joe Dery and John Smits
IT / Cloud
Western Governors University’s College of Information Technology (COIT) offers robust Information Technology and Cloud Computing degrees specifically designed to meet the fast-pace of change most every organization faces in today’s hi-tech environment. Graduates are ready to seamlessly enter the workforce and increase their productivity and expertise.. WGU is a pioneer in career-relevant, competency-based education. We remain the only institution offering competency-based degrees at scale, creating a model other colleges and universities are increasingly striving to replicate. WGU's B.S. and M.S. IT degrees deliver in-demand skills such as scripting and programming, networking and security, systems and services, sources and planning, solutions development, and project management. WGU's Cloud Computing degree offers learners the choice of detailed Amazon AWS, Microsoft Azure, or Multi-Cloud degree options that all come with industry certifications built into our tuition model. With over 12,000 graduates and 8,500 active students in these programs we are setting the new standard in aligning workforce readiness to employer needed skills in critical areas like financial tech software, real time software, Internet of Things, gaming, and many more.
Coming soon!
Dean’s Fireside Chat:
Computer Science and Software Engineering
This recurring fireside chat series features thought leaders and experts across the country in the field of Computer Science and Software Engineering.
Registration will open soon for the next event!
Come and be a part of the fourth installment of the Dean's Fireside Chat: Computer Science and Software Engineering Series. Join Dr. Joe Dery as he engages in a conversation with David Lindquist, GM & Vice President Engineering of Red Hat Hybrid Cloud Management and Service Delivery. Together, they will delve into the fascinating realm of AI and Open Source and their profound influence on the field of Software Engineering. Don't miss this insightful episode!
David Lindquist is currently responsible for Ansible Engineering and Service Delivery of Red Hat’s Cloud Services. His leadership has extended across Hybrid Cloud Management and Automation at Red Hat, including: Advanced Cluster Management for Kubernetes, Ansible Automation Platform, and Insights. Dave has over 25 years of global engineering experience in Cloud, DevOps, and Management systems. He joined Red Hat from IBM, where he led IBM’s Hybrid Cloud Products. Prior, Dave led IBM’s Cloud DevOps and Insights, including: DevOps Pipeline Services, UrbanCode, Cloud Garage Method, and DevOps Analytics. Dave was the CTO for Tivoli and the Cloud & Smarter Infrastructure Division. In 2007, he was appointed an IBM Fellow, IBM’s highest technical honor for his innovation and industry leadership in management systems. His research has led to more than 200 patents, recognition as an IBM Master Inventor and election into the IBM Academy of Technology.
Featured Speakers (from top left): Jared Plumb, Dr. Sesh Murty, Dr. Andi Simon, and Wanda Burwick
Featured Speaker: Dr. Ram D. Sriram, Chief of the Software and Systems Division in the Information Technology Laboratory at the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST)
Featured Speaker: Dr. Rama Akkiraju
The Connection
The Connection is a networking and cloud-centric broadcast hosted by Western Governors University. This broadcast features a guest panel of industry professionals, a learning segment about related topics, and a workforce segment that will take the pulse of the job market in IT. The Connection explores converging topics in the IT world related to emerging challenges professionals face daily.
Look for this quarterly broadcast hosted by Dr. Dave Huff, Associate Dean, and Director of our networking and cloud degree programs.
Episode Six: Networking and Cloud Computing– A Convergence
April 19 at 11:00 a.m. MT
Tune in to the latest installment of The Connection as we explore how cloud computing, network engineering, and security come together. Our expert panelists will explain how network infrastructure and cloud systems converge to redefine new career paths in secure networking and cloud operations. We also discuss groundbreaking business models and use cases driving convergence between traditional infrastructures and new distributed or edge computing capabilities. Whether you're an IT pro or just starting in tech, this episode has something for you. Tune in to learn about the future of end-to-end information convergence.
Panelists: Benny Vargas, Lead Academic Program Manager and David Holsinger, Lead Academic Program Manager
Job Outlook Expert: Ted Hellmuth, CEO, IQ Clarity
Host: Dave Huff, Associate Dean and Director, WGU Network Engineering and Security, and Cloud Computing
Benny Vargas
Lead Academic Program Manager
Benny has been with WGU since 2022. Prior to joining the university, he spent twelve years in EdTech as a VP of Product Management and Marketing. During this time, Benny worked closely with end users and leadership stakeholders to understand their needs. This enabled him to best conceive, design, and bring to market solutions that focused on student recruitment, engagement, and retention.
Benny received his B.A. degree in Business Marketing and History from Florida International University. He also attended Elmhurst College in Illinois where he was a Dean's List student and member of the college's football team. Currently, Benny lives in Florida's Treasure Coast with his family.
David Holsinger
Lead Academic Program Manager
David has been with Western Governors University since 2022, working as Lead Academic Program Manager for the Cloud Computing program. Prior to joining WGU, he worked as Director of Product Management for several technology companies, primarily in the automotive, navigation, and logistics spaces. He has also worked as a software developer, starting his career in the field of natural language processing before transitioning to product management.
David received his Ph.D. in Germanic Linguistics from the University of Wisconsin-Madison and has taught both German (at UW-Madison) and Linguistics (at UW-Milwaukee). He has also been a researcher at the Center for General Linguistics (Berlin), P.J. Meertens Instituut (Amsterdam) and the Deutscher Sprachatlas (Marburg, Germany). He holds a BA in Government from the University of Notre Dame, where he received a Fulbright Scholarship to Germany.
Ted Hellmuth
CEO, IQ Clarity
As the CEO of IQ Clarity, Ted is continuously seeking to disrupt the technology recruiting industry. He has over fifteen years of experience helping Colorado companies find solutions to their most complex technology and talent acquisition initiatives. Prior to starting IQ Clarity, he was a Talent Acquisition Consultant for Comcast / NBC Universal. He also spent more than a decade with one of the world’s largest staffing firms. Ted received a Bachelor’s Degree from University of Colorado at Boulder and his MBA from the University of Colorado at Denver. While he is not scouring the web for top engineering talent, Ted enjoys spending time in the mountains with his wife and three children.
Dave Huff (Host)
Associate Dean and Director, WGU Network Engineering and Security, and Cloud Computing
Dave has been with Western Governors University since 2006 and is currently serving as an Associate Dean and the Director of the Network Engineering and Security, and Cloud Computing academic degree programs. These programs serve over 7,500 Full-time Undergraduate Students
Prior to joining WGU, Dave managed large-scale software development projects and has consulted on SMB networking, knowledge management and corporate training initiatives. Dave also has a great deal of experience in developing and operating automotive supply chain and manufacturing support systems.
Dave received his Doctor of Philosophy degree from Wayne State University. His other degrees include an M.S. in Information Systems and Telecommunication from the University of Colorado, an MBA from the University of Detroit Mercy, and a Bachelor’s of Science in Logistics from Penn State.
Dave holds current Cisco CCNA and CompTIA Cloud+ certifications. He has been a Lead Security Auditor for the British Standards Institute and a Certified Information Professional with the Association for Information and Image Management (AIIM).
Coming Soon!
Featured Speakers: Jeff Dooley and David Lewis
