Computer Technologies Program The Bridge to a Career
Software Designer Consultant
California Department of Health Services/National Laboratory Training Network
What made you interested in technology?
I took a course in Career Path Development. After many career tests in the class, it was determined that a computer field would be a good fit for me. I started my journey into technology by taking a basic computer science class at my local junior college.
What is your disability?
I have a neck injury and peripheral neuropathy. The neuropathy means that I have tingling and pain in my hands and feet. This is a result of having diabetes which I did not know I had until the neuropathy started.
What did you do before your technology career?
I was a Respiratory Therapist. This job required me to be on my feet for long periods of time without breaks and sometimes required running. There was often not time for meals.
What does your work place do to accommodate your disability?
I have a good chair with back support and adjustable foot rest, and an ergonomically correct keyboard and monitor. If I need to lift something heavy, someone lifts it for me. I am also able to work at home so that I can rest my back.
What training in technology do you have?
I graduated from the Computer Technologies Program training in computer programming in 2003. The most valuable classes to me, for my current job, were Web Design and Meeting Facilitation. Before that I was certified in A+ Computer Hardware and as a Computer Technician at Los Medanos College and Diablo Valley College. I also graduated from a Software Quality Assurance Testing Program at Software Advanced Technologies Institute.
What are your hobbies and interests?
I enjoy gardening, travel, music and my pets. I have been to Hawaii three times. I have designed the landscape for my backyard to include shade plants and ferns, a garden pond with fish, a waterfall and water lilies.
What work do you do now?
I am a Software Designer consultant for the California Department of Health Services/National Laboratory Training Network. My current project is an online and CD based education program for laboratory scientists on bioterrorism preparedness.
What do you like about your work?
I like to design things. I also enjoy using my medical background and computer knowledge to help people learn critical public health information.
