Empowering Future Technologists: Adapting to Evolving Cloud Computing Trends at Wake Tech

John R. Wetsch, Ph.D, Program Director for Cloud Computing/Instructor, Wake Technical Community College

Through this article, John R. Wetsch, Ph.D highlights Wake Technical Community College’s Cloud Infrastructure program, which combines hands-on training, industry-aligned curricula, and cloud instruction to prepare students for dynamic IT roles. He discusses the importance of adaptability, certifications, and collaboration with industry leaders while offering insights into evolving cloud trends and advice for aspiring technologists.

Professional Background and Current Role at Wake Technical Community College

My career spans 30 years of IT experience across industry, government, and higher education, including software engineering, system administration, cybersecurity, cloud migration, and risk management. I’ve held technical and leadership roles supporting organizations like Northrop Grumman, U.S. Air Force Space Command, U.S. Courts, and the State of North Carolina.

At Wake Technical Community College, based at the Research Triangle Park (RTP) campus, I serve as the program director for the Cloud Infrastructure program. We’ve established a state-of-the-art student data center with hyper-converged servers to train new technologists and advance careers. My responsibilities include teaching at Wake Tech and providing cloud instruction through CalTech’s Center for Technology Management Education (CTME).

Aligning the Cloud Computing Curriculum with Industry Standards

Our program benefits from a dedicated Advisory Board comprising well-known tech companies in North Carolina’s Research Triangle Park (RTP). Since the Cloud Infrastructure program launched in Fall 2020, the Board has been instrumental in identifying essential skills for success and conducts annual reviews to ensure we stay current.

Students begin with foundational IT knowledge, progressing to in-depth studies in virtualization, Linux and Windows operating systems, networking, cloud technologies, Python programming, storage, and systems analysis and design. To develop well-rounded graduates, we also emphasize critical thinking, communication, and problem-solving through public speaking and writing courses. Graduates earn an Associate of Applied Science (AAS) degree.

Balancing Theoretical Instruction with Hands-On Cloud Computing Experience

Our primary goal is workforce readiness. Technical classes incorporate labs in simulated and virtualized settings and direct hands-on work with hyper-converged servers used in cloud infrastructures.

“Our goal is workforce readiness, combining hands-on experience with cloud instruction to prepare students for dynamic roles in an ever-changing tech landscape.”

We ensure every technical course includes some level of cloud instruction and faculty regularly update course content to stay relevant. Additionally, we encourage students to pursue paid internships, earning credit while applying their skills in real-world settings. Their feedback on practical skills informs and refines our curriculum.

Preparing Students for Evolving Trends in Cloud Computing

With rapid technological changes, adaptability is crucial. While our program is cloud-agnostic, students are guided to stay current in their skills. Certifications in virtualization and operating systems are emphasized and often supported by vouchers to reduce exam costs.

Students gain exposure to multiple cloud providers (AWS, Azure, Google) and are encouraged to specialize in one. This prepares them for roles like Cloud Engineer and System Administrator. Essential skills include proficiency in operating systems, virtualization, networking, programming, and scripting to support diverse technical ecosystems effectively.

Advice for Peers and Aspiring Professionals

Technology is an exciting field where we shape impactful solutions for people and organizations. Critical attributes for technologists include adaptability, a commitment to lifelong learning, problem-solving skills, and unwavering professional integrity. Build a strong network of peers and leaders, and give back as your career progresses.

Cloud Computing

virtualization

Risk Management

Storage

Data Center

AWS