Cloud Network Technology instructor Ren Tarvin spent 10 years at Verizon Wireless solving the company’s technical support challenges. Now Ren uses that experience to train the next generation of tech experts at RTC. Ren answered our questions about the future of Cloud Network Technology, what makes a career in technology special, and why RTC is the best place to study IT.

How did you become interested in cloud technical, computer support, and IT?

I have been interested in ones and zeros since I could remember. Having the newest device (if affordable) or finding out how the older one works has always been my “thing.” Even something like a light switch, I want to know either how it works or how I could make it different.

What unique opportunities does a degree in Cloud Network Technology offer students?

Let me let you in on an industry secret, there isn’t a cloud. Well, not in the metaphysical context. The cloud is a collection of computing and data storage resources able to be accessed remotely through networking through the internet's wide area network, essentially other companies leasing usage monthly. The cloud is just a great representation of the vast resources available to anyone with an internet connection and an idea.

That puts our program in such a rare position. After years of trying to work with given scenarios and narrowing down the specific needs in knowledge now we can focus on what the job fields are asking for in candidates. Having the opportunity to experience tools otherwise not known until later in the career trajectory. When we were Computer Technology, I focused more on the basics of hardware but with the opportunity to invite AI, Machine Learning, and web services to the classroom, we’ve been able to focus more on learning something new and what it takes to build from the ground up. Focusing on task resolutions helps them learn how the bread is made instead of focusing on who is making the ingredients.
 
What do you think makes IT or cloud technology a great career field?

It’s a great field because everyone needs it. I tried running from it and it still came back to me. I am supposed to be teaching Japanese students English right now, but the demand for tech jobs is astounding. While layoffs have been dominating the headlines for the past few months, this does not include those small companies that need a database or system manager. Companies that operate on the internet need people from this field to get anything accomplished.
 
What excites you about the future of cloud technology?

That’s a tough one. Not because nothing excites me, but because I am brimming with hope. I hope that the next big thing will aid in resolving hardships or detriments that have been a challenge in some way, but I want RTC’s name alongside it. Admittedly this will take time, but I would love for an RTC student to be the next big thing in cloud technology.
 
Why is RTC the best place to learn about Cloud Network Technology?

To avoid being biased, I will say that our program focuses on the basics of what is used in a cloud, how to manage a cloud, and how what the infrastructure of a physical on-premises computer would need to complete the task. A cloud itself can be made by anyone in an interface, we offer the opportunity to build the structure and then use the interface.
 
You're a member of the RTC Foundation's Board of Directors. What has that work meant to you? How does it impact RTC students?

I’m beyond grateful for being offered the opportunity to change person’s lives. We don’t have as many opportunities to talk to students during this pause in social interaction. It is difficult to share personal challenges because everyone has had personal challenges recently, but I make it a point to listen. Hardships do not always just “go away,” and as a former college student that lived on oatmeal and toast for a month, every little bit helps. The foundation aids the students so they don’t have the excessive burden of finance hindering their future.
 
What’s something great about RTC that most people don’t know?

Our FLEX team! OK, I am a bit biased, but I wish people understood the level of duty that this team has undertaken. We have ESL students who need to get back to their hometown as soon as possible and it is not on this continent. How can they continue? Our FLEX team has created a great foundation for these students to be able to continue without needing to end their quarter prematurely. As a former seven-time college restarter, I see more than the value of saved money from student loans, I see a commitment to encouraging consistency.
 
What’s your favorite thing about RTC?

What we are trying to achieve. Working for a greater good isn’t just showing up to work, it’s adding those extra moments to ensure a student’s success. We’ve all done it and it isn’t out of obligation, it is genuine support for achievement.
 
Is there anything else you’d like to add that you haven’t already mentioned?

I would like to say that the break in campus fellowship has challenged our amazing community, but it will return to the campus we all know and love sooner better than later. I hope to see to that personally. The Securing A Future Experience will allow students to practice new tools and opportunities outside their wheelhouse. I hope to start inviting more students from other programs to practice using the tools of our program in a controlled environment while building something that interests them. Currently, we are working with a company that uses raspberry pi computers to gauge greenhouse levels for plants. We are looking to start other projects that involve 3D printing coming soon. The future is bright at RTC.