"I was stationed at Fort Riley, Kansas, pursuing my dream of becoming an Army Ranger, when I suffered a back injury that left me disabled and wondering what to do. I’d always been interested in information technology and IT security, and I realized a career in that industry would allow me to move forward while continuing to work with the military.

"Growing up, I thought I wanted to own my own restaurant or bakery. My parents own a small business, and I admire their hard work. Plus, I’ve always been a creative person.

But in eighth grade, I started going to a high-end hair salon and I loved the environment and always left feeling incredible. I realized I wanted to be able to make other people feel as beautiful and confident as I felt after walking out of the salon. My hairstylist gave me a lot of advice and encouraged me to pursue a career in cosmetology.

"I really enjoy young kids, so growing up I always thought I’d become a teacher. I started down that path in college, but soon discovered it wasn’t for me. While in college, I started working at Walmart, which gave me some great experience with handling cash and working with the public.

“When I was 20, my wife and I moved from Concordia to Manhattan for her education. Shortly after, my computer began slowing down due to malware. As I was researching how to clean up the computer to speed it up, I had an epiphany that I like electronics and that this could be the field for me.