Rene Aranda
Collins College Graduate Network Technology

Do you love “geeking out” by tearing apart old computers to make them faster? If yes, you might want to consider a degree in information technology.

That is the path Rene Aranda took when he realized his love for internal speed. After graduating with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Network Technology, Aranda accepted a position with the Roosevelt School District in Phoenix, Arizona.

After three and one-half years with the district, he has worked his way up the career ladder and is now the data systems administrator. The Roosevelt School District includes 22 kindergarten through eighth-grade schools and has over 2,200 computers.

A day in the life of a data systems administrator can be pretty hectic. Aranda starts his day by checking the system’s e-mail system and from there moves on to multiple tasks. He is responsible for all aspects of the Internet and intranet, including security, eliminating system downtime, setting-up new employees on the system, and downloading system upgrades. He also is in charge of ensuring that proper filters are in place to block unwanted messages. Monitoring the system and eliminating cyber hangouts and chat rooms are also part of the daily agenda.

To increase efficiency in the classroom, Aranda has divided computers by grade and is installing age-level appropriate software on each. The district’s system allows Aranda to program and install upgrades on all of the district’s 2,200 plus computers remotely from his main office.

Aranda’s most recent challenge is converting the district’s technology system to a wireless WAN system.

When asked what his future plans are, they all revolve around his current employer and moving the Roosevelt School District forward as a leader in technology.