A Second Chance at an IT Career

Ever since he was a little kid, CJ Spencer-Wague loved taking apart laptops and computers.

From dismantling and piecing together PCs, he enjoyed trying to figure out how each part worked together and  was hooked from the start. Joining high school clubs and computer programs only amplified the thoughts that this was the right field for him. So, when he heard through a friend after high school about the ITWorks program through Tech Impact, it was a no-brainer. “When my friend finished the program and told me about it in 2019, I decided to give it a shot. It was a good opportunity because I was not passionate about my current job and wanted to make a change. Since I always had an interest in technology, I gave it a shot and applied and was later accepted.”

Right as CJ was about to start the program, COVID-19 hit. “Throughout the time after I got accepted, I was really excited to be in the program, but then the world shut down”. CJ had to step back from the program for a year -not only did COVID try to shut down his dreams, but a serious medical issue came up as well that delayed CJ’s time in ITWorks. Looking back, CJ knew he made the right decision to step away to take care of his health and wait for in-person classes to start again.

When it came time for CJ to reapply for the program, ITWorks welcomed him back with open arms. He was thankful to the ITWork staff and his support system who helped him rejoin the program and get him back on track for his new career path. “I knew I was locked in and had to get it done. My support system including my family, grandma, friends, alumni, and mentors were telling me ‘You’ve got this. You can do it,’ and that just helped motivate me to get back into the program.”

Overcoming his medical scare and letting the worst of COVID pass allowed CJ to get the most out of the ITWorks program. He recalls how great the instructors were and the motivation they gave the class throughout the program that they leaned on to succeed. Working as a team and making those connections was one of the best parts of the program for CJ. “Even though I had to take a step away, I don’t think it was a bad thing. I loved the class I was in now and had a great experience in-person. I joined ITWorks for the connections, not just the technical skills.” His two closest colleagues, Nysir and Mya were his biggest supporters. For anyone looking into the ITWorks program, CJ says, “Your biggest help is your own classmates. They are going to be the ones who walk with you from start to finish - things are going to get challenging, but sticking together is key and knowing everyone believes you can get through it. It is worth it in the end.”