From Cyber Student to Trusted Professional at CVCC
Cristian Cantera’s journey through the cybersecurity program at Catawba Valley Community College (CVCC) is a powerful example of how talent, hard work, and opportunity can come together to shape a bright future.
Graduating in May 2025 with a 4.0 GPA in Cybersecurity, Cristian didn’t just excel in the classroom — he turned his education into a real-world career. During his studies, he completed Work-Based Learning hours in CVCC’s IT department. His initiative, professionalism, and technical skills left a strong impression, leading to a seamless transition into a full-time role on the college’s IT team.
But Cristian’s story goes beyond academics and employment. He co-founded and served as president of the CVCC Cybersecurity Club, where he explored penetration testing, deepened his knowledge, and developed career-ready skills.
“One achievement I am especially proud of is taking the initiative to seek out new opportunities and collaborate with my classmates and community,” Cristian shares. “Starting the cybersecurity club allowed me to gain applied knowledge and connect with others who share my passion.”
His leadership caught the attention of CVCC’s Executive Director of Innovation and Technology, Athena Smith, which opened the door to volunteering at the college’s summer cybersecurity camp.
“That opportunity let me give back. To inspire younger students while doing what I love,” Cristian says.
Cristian demonstrated his skills in competition. As a two-time Silver medalist in SkillsUSA’s state-level cybersecurity contests and a Gold medalist as part of CVCC’s Outstanding Chapter team at nationals, he proved that teamwork and technical prowess go hand-in-hand.
Today, Cristian continues to contribute to CVCC, this time as a professional.
“It’s incredibly rewarding to see how our shared dedication and diverse talents come together to make a lasting impact on our campus,” he reflects. “I’m grateful to be part of an exceptional IT team serving the community that helped launch my career.”
Cristian’s journey shows how academic excellence, hands-on learning, mentorship, and collaboration can empower students to step into the workforce with confidence and make a difference from day one. His story is a testament to the Carolina Cyber Network’s (CCN) mission: to develop a work-ready, holistic cybersecurity workforce across North Carolina.
