As our reliance on digital technology grows, so do the threats to our online security. Wilson Chang, a senior pursuing an associate’s degree in cybersecurity at the College of Eastern Idaho, has had his fair share of interactions with threats and cybersecurity.
Chang was born and raised in Venezuela, where he resided for most of his education. However, he moved to Idaho five years ago to further his education and engage in Idaho’s rich cybersecurity education offerings.
His interest in cybersecurity began with his love of computers in high school. “I have always liked computers ever since I was a child, but two or three years ago, I started looking for a good job related to computers and something that I would enjoy,” he said. For Wilson, the decision to major in cybersecurity was driven by a joint desire to work with computers and provide for his family. He recognized that while cybersecurity has the potential to offer a stable career, it’s a field he genuinely enjoys, especially the intriguing aspect of penetration testing.
Chang is a student worker at the Cyberdome, a collaborative hub for competency-based development. This enables Idaho students to gain hands-on work experience by providing cybersecurity services to rural Idaho school districts, counties, and cities. While at the Cyberdome, Chang has been interested in the engineering aspects of cybersecurity and had the unique opportunity to witness, learn, and actively prevent cyberattacks. It is an experience that has enriched his understanding of the cybersecurity landscape.
One of the most significant advice he received was not to give up. This simple yet powerful mantra has been his guiding principle throughout his academic journey. He remains focused on his goals and doesn’t let obstacles deter him, a mindset that has undoubtedly contributed to his success.
During his current semester at CEI, Wilson was asked to speak in front of staff and professors on his academic journey and his struggles with his daughter’s cancer diagnosis. “In an instant, our lives changed completely,” said Wilson. At the time of his child’s diagnosis, Wilson was just starting his degree program at his college, where he still obtained the highest grades in his class—through his dedication and resilience to his work, professors and faculty members took notice. “I was the only student that was asked to speak at this event and was able to talk about my college experience and the past few years, ” said Chang. Being asked to share his experiences was a testament to his dedication and impact on his college community. Wilson’s resilience in school is something he is exceptionally proud of, and he hopes to maintain the balance between education and family that he has created for himself.
Alongside his position in the Cyberdome, Wilson works at the college’s IT desk as a Support Technician, where he has developed a keen attention to detail. This skill has become invaluable in identifying and addressing potential security vulnerabilities.
Upon graduation, Wilson plans to pursue a bachelor’s degree. Beyond that, he remains open to various career possibilities within the cybersecurity field. Wilson envisions a career where he can continue to learn and grow in the engineering side of cybersecurity. He is excited about the possibilities within the Cyberdome and looks forward to seeing how it will evolve.
The journey of this cybersecurity student from Venezuela to Idaho is a testament to the power of passion, perseverance, and a deep commitment to family. His dedication to cybersecurity and the invaluable skills he’s acquired will help Chang continue his education and explore the evolving landscape of cybersecurity.
Check him out on LinkedIn : https://www.linkedin.com/in/wilson-chang-079941157?trk=contact-info