Program Synopsis:
The Computer Systems Technology Program is an exclusive program at the ACE Center at Highland Springs. Students who enjoy building, repairing, troubleshooting or tinkering around with PC computers, basic electronics and networking will love our class. It not only prepares them for real-world experience in the information technology field, but:
- Students can take this program as a stand-alone, 1 year course and earn 3 High School credits; or complete the 2 year program for a total of 6 High School credits. This really helps their GPA!
- Students are eliegible to be dual enrolled through Reynolds Community College. Juniors enjoy earning up to 7 college credits with the instructor here in our classroom. As Seniors they can earn up to 6 College Credits for a total of 13 low cost ($50 per course taken) college credits over the two years they spend with us!
- SkillsUSA competitions are really fun and enjoyable for those who like a competitive edge. We host the annual District Skills USA competition in our computer lab, where Field Engineers, Network Administrators and Technology Entrepreneurs judge students within the district. We’ve made it to Nationals many times and place in the top 5 consistently!
- Students prepare and sit for Industry Standard Certifications through CompTIA which lead to IT Career Paths.
- Students experience Mock Interviews with vendors such as Federal Reserve Bank, GE Healthcare, ECPI University, HCPS Administrative Staff etc.
- Students participate in Job Shadowing which allows them to explore technology career options by spending time with a professional currently working in the field.
- Students can participate in a Work Experience Program during the 2nd semester as a Senior.
Computer Systems Technology I: The Computer System Technology course teaches entry-level computer skills compiled of all the aspects of industry listed above.
Computer Systems Technology II: During the second year, the students learn the basics of computer network installation, maintenance, troubleshooting, and repair. Students also learn workstation/server configuration and technical writing skills.
Instructors: Both instructors for the Computer Systems Technology program have schooling, industry and technology teaching background and experience. Their combined unique personalities really help students find their “niche” and career paths in whatever technology or business field they choose. They’ve both been involved in many HCPS technology initiatives such as Henrico 2000, Windows PC to Mac Platform integration, 1-to-1 laptop secondary initiative, School-Space, Mac/Win School SIS, and are currently piloting a Project Management course which will prepare student to sit for their Project Management Certification as soon as they graduate!
Mr. Morgan Enroughty (in-ruff-tee or Mr. E) is a graduate of the CST class with over 13 years of experience in the 
IT field supporting Henrico County Public Schools, a nationally recognized Dell Enterprise Support System. With knowledge ranging from smart boards to mobile phones, he moved through the ranks to become a dedicated member of the 1-to-1 laptop initiative advisory council, a trainer and mentor to his fellow team members. He’s humble to the opportunities the CST class provided him and is eager to share his knowledge with the next generation of IT specialists. Outside of work you’ll find him researching, learning and advising businesses and organizations on technology solutions. In his downtime he’s either working on his golf swing or relaxing by the James River.
Mr. Curtis Johnson is a graduate of the Computer Systems Technology program here at the ACE Center at Highland Springs (Class of 2002). He then went on to work for HCPS as a Data Infrastructure Maintenance Technician where he gained priceless on the job training and various industry certifications. He has over 10 years of experience working in the Information Technology field doing things like structured cabling installation, fiber optics, network equipment installation, computer repair, and leading projects. Mr. Johnson is very serious about mentoring his students into being successful in the IT field and any other positive things they may be involved in. Outside of the classroom he is the Head Varsity Wrestling Coach at Varina High School where he has coached multiple District Champs, several Regional Placers, and a few State Placers. He was awarded the Capital District Coach of the year in 2011 and was the runner-up in 2013.
Desired Aptitudes: Strong Math Skills
Certification Tests:
- Microsoft Certifications and CompTIA
- Cisco Engineering for post graduates
Employment Outlook (According to the Occupational Outlook Handbook, 2012-13 Edition):
|
Occupation |
Job Summary |
Median Salary |
| Computer and Information Research Scientists | Computer and information research scientists invent and design new technology and find new uses for existing technology. They study and solve complex problems in computing for business, science, medicine, and other uses. | $100,660 |
| Computer Programmers | Computer programmers write code to create software programs. They turn the program designs created by software developers and engineers into instructions that a computer can follow. | $71,380 |
| Computer Support Specialists | Computer support specialists provide help and advice to people and organizations using computer software or equipment. Some, called technical support specialists, support information technology (IT) employees within their organization. Others, called help-desk technicians, assist non-IT users who are having computer problems. | $46,260 |
| Computer Systems Analysts | Computer systems analysts study an organization’s current computer systems and procedures and make recommendations to management to help the organization operate more efficiently and effectively. They bring business and information technology (IT) together by understanding the needs and limitations of both. | $77,740 |
| Database Administrators | Database administrators use software to store and organize data, such as financial information and customer shipping records. They make sure that data are available to users and are secure from unauthorized access. | $73,490 |
| Information Security Analysts, Web Developers, and Computer Network Architects | Information security analysts, web developers, and computer network architects all use information technology (IT) to advance their organization’s goals. Security analysts ensure a firm’s information stays safe from cyberattacks. Web developers create websites to help firms have a public face. Computer network architects create the internal networks all workers within organizations use. | $75,660 |
| Network and Computer Systems Administrators | Network and computer systems administrators are responsible for the day-to-day operation of an organization’s computer networks. They organize, install, and support an organization’s computer systems, including local area networks (LANs), wide area networks (WANs), network segments, intranets, and other data communication systems. | $69,160 |
| Software Developers | Software developers are the creative minds behind computer programs. Some develop the applications that allow people to do specific tasks on a computer or other device. Others develop the underlying systems that run the devices or control networks. | $90,530 |