Students Dive into Tech Careers at Whiteside Area Career Center

At the **Whiteside Area Career Center** (WACC) in **Sterling**, students are engaging in hands-on technology education that prepares them for various careers in the tech industry. The program targets high school juniors and seniors interested in fields such as computer repair, networking, programming, and cyber security. Students enrolled in the program can earn up to **12 college credits**, enhancing their academic and professional prospects.

In this innovative program, students learn through practical experience rather than rote memorization. They dismantle and rebuild computers, analyze motherboards, and troubleshoot technical issues. By obtaining industry-recognized certifications in areas like system administration and cyber security, they gain essential skills that enhance their employability for entry-level tech jobs and internships.

Instructor **Mary Worley** emphasizes the importance of a hands-on approach. “The very first lab I have them do every year is a complete teardown,” she explained. During this exercise, students learn to disassemble a computer fully, removing components such as the hard drive and power supply, before reassembling the system. “I always tell them, ‘It’s OK if you are somewhat intimidated,’” Worley added, highlighting her supportive teaching style.

As students progress, they can specialize in networking or explore game design. The curriculum offers a variety of pathways, including preparation for the **Network+ certification** and opportunities to learn programming languages such as JavaScript. The program also incorporates coding with devices like Raspberry Pi and drones, exposing students to both software and hardware aspects of technology.

Worley has adapted the curriculum to include coding and video game design as part of a broader educational experience. “Game design is not the whole pie; it’s a piece of the pie,” she noted, reflecting her aim to create well-rounded students. In previous years, students focused on platforms like Unity and Unreal Engine, but now they also work on practical coding applications.

Students who return for a second year can continue where they left off, diving deeper into subjects like ethical hacking. **Alexander Briseno**, a junior from **Newman Central Catholic High School**, has been passionate about computers since he was 13. He is pursuing a career as an ethical hacker, which involves testing and strengthening the security systems of organizations. “You’re basically making sure that their security is not hackable,” Briseno explained.

Despite the program’s comprehensive offerings and the growing significance of technology in daily life, enrollment has seen a decline in recent years. Worley expressed her confusion regarding this trend, questioning why interest isn’t higher. “Tech is everywhere… So why are the numbers not bursting at the seams?” she asked, underscoring the value of tech skills for any career path.

WACC serves students from **Bureau**, **Carroll**, **Lee**, **Ogle**, and **Whiteside** counties, with many coming from **Sterling**, **Rock Falls**, and **Dixon**. The center represents a cooperative effort among 16 member school districts and three parochial schools, providing access to crucial vocational training.

For more information about the program and its offerings, interested parties can visit the WACC website at **wacc.com**.