Meet Our Graduates

My name is Suneeta Bawani, also known as Anita. I have a bachelor’s degree in mathematics from the University of Texas at Arlington. In the fall of 2020, I participated in the Generation USA bootcamp, gaining valuable soft skills and basic technical knowledge. And this year, I obtained several certificates –AWS Cloud Practitioner, Solutions Architect, Microsoft AI, and Azure Fundamental certificates during this year. I also had the opportunity to be part of Trend Micro’s Certification Program in IT Security (CPITS) in the  summer of 2021, where I learned about cybersecurity and enhanced my soft skills further.  

During the 10-week internship, I studied the fundamentals of IT Security: how to protect data from malicious sources through various products and services, how to understand risks, apply security protection, and implement effective security solutions. I was also able to deepen my knowledge of AWS, networking, Linux, and some Trend Micro products – Trend Micro™ Deep Security™, Trend Micro Apex One™, and Trend Micro Cloud One™ security platform. Additionally, I got certified Deep Security, Apex One, and Advanced Threat Protection.

I am a team worker and very result driven. My communication skills and ability to apply what I’ve learned throughout the CPITS program and through my previous work experiences allow me to be well versed in cloud infrastructure and top Trend Micro products.

Thank you,

Suneeta Bawani

My name is Christopher Hsu. In May of 2021, I graduated from the University of Texas at Austin with a bachelor’s in mathematics and a certificate in computer science.

In the summer of 2021, I had the opportunity to be part of Trend Micro’s Certification Program in Information Technology and Security (CPITS) and enhance my soft and technical skills. I received in-depth training in the fundamentals of Linux, networking, AWS, and Advanced Threat Defense. I also completed certifications in top cybersecurity solutions: Trend Micro™ Deep Security™ 20 and Trend Micro Apex One™.

I greatly appreciate the opportunity to learn about the world of cybersecurity through CPITS and am looking forward to the next step of my journey!

My name is Ezekiel Obeisun Jr. I am an upcoming graduate from the University of North Texas with a degree in information technology, cybersecurity emphasis. I wanted to focus on building my skills in the industry and learn as much as possible. In the Spring of 2021, I was blessed with the opportunity to complete Trend Micro’s Certification Program in IT Security (CPITS). I received in-depth training on Linux and multiple cloud platforms, including AWS, Kubernetes, Dockers, and Microsoft Azure. My training also entailed key Trend Micro products: Trend Micro Apex™ One and Trend Micro™ Deep Security™. While going through intense training, I also earned certifications in those products and had the opportunity to enhance my soft skills, like customer relations and team collaboration. I am thankful for the opportunity that Trend Micro gave me. It was been a huge learning experience. 

My name is Getachew Ferede, and I am from Ethiopia. A graduate of the Addis Ababa University with Geography and environmental studies, I came to USA in February 2016.

With more than 10 years of work experience, I developed critical soft and hard skills. After I made a career change in IT, I pursued various training opportunities. I joined the University of District of Columbia for 2 semesters and trained on A+ and security +, receiving additional training on Linux, and DevOps essentials and getting certified as AWS Cloud Practitioner.

In May 2021, I pursued a great 10-week internship opportunity - Trend Micro’s Certification Program in IT Security (CPITS).

The in-depth training included the fundamentals of IT security, Networking, Linux, advanced threat defense, AWS, and key Trend Micro products, getting certified in  Trend Micro™ Deep Security™. I also received life-changing lessons from Trend Micro employees, partners, and customers and much support and motivation during my journey. I also had the opportunity to enhance my soft skills, such as orientation to detail, communication, and team work.

Since the field of cybersecurity requires continuous development, I will stay up to date on Trend Micro products, the industry, and technological developments. 

My name is Nidhi Jawandhia. I hold a master’s degree in mathematics and computing from the Birla Institute of Technology in India and am pursuing my second master’s in computer science in information assurance from the University of Texas at Dallas. In the summer of 2021, I had the opportunity to be part of Trend Micro’s Certification Program in IT Security (CPITS).

While pursuing my bachelor’s degree and working on a research project based on Elliptical Curve Cryptography at the Tata Institute of Fundamental Research (TIFR CAM), I decided on a career in cybersecurity.

When I came to the U.S. to complete a cybersecurity degree, most of my knowledge was theoretical. The 10-week program gave me a hands-on practical experience, an insight into the corporate world, and the skills to become a real cybersecurity professional.

I gained valuable technical skills, like securing data and networks from threats, vulnerabilities, and cyber attacks and learning Linux, networking, AWS, Docker, and Kubernetes. I also learned about Trend Micro’s top products – Trend Micro Apex One™, Trend Micro Cloud One™ Workload Security, Advanced Threat Protection, and Trend Micro Vision One, and got certified in Apex One and Trend Micro™ Deep Security™. This internship not only enhanced my technical skills, but also gave me a whole new perspective about the importance of soft skills. The experience taught me to focus more on “why” we do something, rather than on “how” we achieve it. The program also gave me a unique experience on learning how to help clients, approach and meet people with diverse and fresh perspective from around the globe, and collaborate in a team. 

With everything I have learned so far, I am very excited to continue contributing, growing, and learning and am looking forward to the future of cybersecurity, especially forensics.

My name is Scott Shaulis. Here’s a little bit about me.

During Trend Micro’s Certification Program in IT Security (CPITS), I was heavily immersed in hard and soft skill training for 10 weeks. I also obtained certifications in Trend Micro™ Deep Security™ and Trend Micro Apex One™ and am working on becoming a AWS Certified Solutions Architect – Associate.

As to who I am as a person, I consistently strive to become a better human being in every aspect possible: physical, mental, spiritual, and intellectual –for my own personal development and to help aid our future as a collective species.

Perhaps this is too on-the-nose for a work biography, but I struggled with believing in humanity for a long time in my teenage years. After all, given certain realities in the world, how could one have hope for the future? Star Trek largely helped give me that hope in humanity, showing me how valuable art is; and I aim to cultivate that positive regard to the utmost. I learned deeply that my role should be to create the most positive change in the world that I can.

My dedication to personal and collective growth, persistence, willingness to change and adapt makes me a worthy contributor to a team committed to a better future for humanity through the technology. I’m eager to apply the hard and soft skills I learned previously and in CPITS to that end.

Thank you for taking the time to read my bio!

My name is Elvin Fonjweng, and I am a graduate of Lycoming College with a degree in business administration with a focus on marketing. I was blessed to become a graduate of Trend Micro’s Certification Program in IT Security (CPITS). During the intense 10-week training, I developed many skills, including knowledge of multiple Trend Micro products –Trend Micro Apex One, Trend Micro Deep security, and Trend Micro Vision One. I also received in-depth training on multiple cloud platforms, such as AWS, Kubernetes, and Dockers, and got AWS certified.

The program included a heavy emphasis on developing critical soft skills – how to actually communicate with team mates and customers.

Prior to joining the program, I had started my cybersecurity journey as a security control assessor, gaining a broad experience in NIST 800-53 A, frameworks, protocols to implement for different vulnerabilities, system monitoring for various infringements and multiple tools, such as Splunk, Nessus, and other vulnerability scanners. I love to learn the ins and outs of new technologies and the different ways to assess systems or problems. Overall, I am very thankful for the skills and knowledge Trend Micro gave me.

My name is Elisha Sigei. I hold a Master of Science in Cybersecurity and Information Assurance degree from University of Central Missouri and a bachelor’s degree in computer science from University of Missouri- Kansas City. My industry certifications include AWS Certified Security- Specialty, AWS Certified Solution Architect -Associate, CompTIA Security +, Deep Security 20 Certified Professional, and Apex One Certified Professional.

My experience encompasses several years of computer networking and system administration supporting basic IT infrastructure, network troubleshooting, documentation and responding to and resolving trouble tickets. I am a results-driven, team player who is always ready and willing to learn and go beyond and above. I truly enjoy solving problems and helping people. In my previous work experience with Amazon as an IT support associate II, I received an award from the regional manager for being the top ticket resolver in Q4 of 2020.

I have always wanted a rewarding and challenging career. I believe that cybersecurity, which I am passionate about, will give me an opportunity to be a problem solver working day and night to ensure that the cyber space is safer and that every threat is hunted and resolved. However, getting my foot in the industry proved a difficult since I didn’t have relevant work experience.

In October 2021, I was privileged enough to have been selected to join the Certification Program in IT Security (CPITS) designed by one of the industry leaders – Trend Micro. Throughout this journey, I have gained not only invaluable training and technical knowledge, like securing servers, endpoints, and cloud-based infrastructures, but also critical soft skills. I learned how to relate to diverse people, engage in different levels of conversation, and sell ideas effectively. Through the CPITS program I have gained practical knowledge and skills on Linux fundamentals, networking, Dev SecOps Pipeline, Advance Threat Defense, IT security fundamentals and sales, and how to deploy and best configure Trend Micro security products. I have also gained practical skills on securing servers, endpoints, and cloud-based infrastructure.

I greatly appreciate the opportunity from Trend Micro. I was able to establish my passion and purpose, build lasting connections, and work with the best team ever. The experience we had through teamwork, one-on-one interactions with my colleagues and leaders, dedicated trainers, CPITS6 Leaders, and different journey shares will always be in my mind. I will always be indebted to the instructors for their dedication and making sure that we all succeed by encouraging us daily. -Words can’t express my sincere gratitude.

Upon graduating from Carnegie Mellon University in 2020 with a degree in public policy, I started a master's degree in applied intelligence with Mercyhurst University with an expected graduation of May 2022.

The experience gave me a better understanding of what I wanted to do in life. The program involved learning investigative techniques and various threats, which prompted my interest in the cybersecurity field. This new-found passion led me to the CPITS program with Trend Micro, and I'm extremely fortunate to have had the opportunity to learn so much. I was trained on the fundamentals of IT security, practiced creating security solutions, and received certifications for Trend Micro's Deep Security and Apex One products. I gained the knowledge to conduct my own research into current threats to better protect my network and data. I am eager to hone my skills and ensure that I can be the best version of myself!

I am in my last semester at University of Texas at Dallas majoring in Information Technology Systems (ITS). In the fall of 2021, I had the amazing opportunity to be the part of Certification Program in IT Security (CPITS) where I was able to improve professionally and give back to the community. This program taught me not only the technical but also the soft skills required to succeed in the field and in life.

The technical curriculum included learning Trend Micro’s leading security solutions – Deep Security, Apex OneFile Storage Security, Networking, Advanced Threat Defense – and programs, such as Python AWS, and Linux. I gained a clear understanding and important insight into the industry and hands-on practical skills through labs and homework. The internship focused on key concepts but it also emboldened the interns to adopt the concept of “learning by doing”. I had the opportunity to better understand the business needs of the customers.

I really appreciate the efforts of Trend Micro to make such an incredible program possible for us.

I am a recent computer information systems graduate (with a minor in interdisciplinary studies) from Texas A&M University – Commerce. I had the opportunity to participate in Trend Micro’s Certification Program in IT Security (CPITS), receiving in-depth training on Linux, Trend Micro™ Deep Security™, Trend Micro Apex One™, AWS, and advanced threats.

The 10-week training helped me identify the intriguing field of threat intelligence and specifically red team scenarios as the cybersecurity area I wanted to focus on. It’s a very intriguing topic that I want to continue to learn more about. It’s very interesting to see the tactics of malicious actors undertake and the lengths they’ll go to harm people and companies.

This program also taught me more about myself and how to maneuver professional relationships. College didn’t teach me much of the material that I learned here, including half of what I know now about collaborating with people.

I normally go by Rod.  I have a degree in information technology from Clayton State University (Morrow, Ga) with a focus on networks and security.

Before venturing into the world of cybersecurity, I served 5 years in the United States Marine Corps as a signals intelligence analyst. During my time, I earned the rank of Sergeant (E-5) and performed various leadership roles as well as my occupational duties. While in the service, I became interested in the world of IT and cybersecurity.

I was fortunate enough to be accepted into the 7th iteration of the Certification Program in IT Security (CPITS) at Trend Micro in early 2022. The 10-week program afforded me amazing opportunities. It nurtured my desire to learn several products and platforms while further expanding on information and concepts that I had learned before. The curriculum gave me a better understanding of key Trend Micro products (Trend Micro Apex One™, Trend Micro™ Deep Security™, and Trend Micro™ Deep Discovery™), as well as AWS and the ever-evolving cloud platforms.  In my short time with Trend Micro, I also earned a certification in Trend Micro™ Deep Security™.

I am constantly pushing myself to learn from those around me and prove myself as an asset in my environment. The skills I acquired from Trend Micro helped me transform into a more well-rounded individual ready to take on the world of cybersecurity.

My ideal position would be one where I am able to grow my technical abilities and use my degree in networking in some capacity. As a newcomer to the field, I am more than willing to put in the hard work and dedicate myself to my craft to become a cybersecurity professional.

I am a recent graduate from the University of Texas at Dallas with a bachelor of science in information technology and systems. I was honored to be selected to participate in Trend Micro’s Certification Program in Information Technology Security (CPITS).

I received thorough training on Linux and various cloud platforms, including AWS (Amazon Web Services), Kubernetes, and Dockers. I gained hands-on knowledge on Trend Micro Apex One™ and Trend Micro™ Deep Security™, learned how to perform an API call in python, and completed threat research classes, working with Kali Linux, Cain&Abel, detecting various types of malware, and creating incident response reports. I am excited to continue using my knowledge to progress in the industry.

I recently obtained my degree in business computer information systems from the University of North Texas. I enrolled in Trend Micro’s Certification Program in IT Security (CPITS) in Jan of 2022. The 10-week comprehensive course included training on Python, Linux, AWS, Kubernetes, and fundamental Trend Micro products – Trend Micro Apex One™, Trend Micro Cloud One™, Trend Micro™ Deep Security™, and Trend Micro Vision One™.

My favorite part of the program was sharing the journey with the other Tenders – wonderful people who became amazing friends. I learned many life lessons, and I hope they will guide me in the future. This internship has also taught me how to cope with a fast-paced environment.

I would like to thank Trend Micro for the opportunity to be a part of this amazing program.

I graduated from the University of Texas at Dallas with a bachelor’s degree in information technology and systems. In January of 2022, I had the opportunity to be part of Trend Micro’s Certification Program in Information Technology and Security (CPITS).

The program gave me the chance to explore the world of IT and cybersecurity and learn many of the fundamental skills necessary to succeed. I learned networking, advanced threat defense, AWS, Python, and many more concepts. Furthermore, I was trained on key Trend Micro products – Trend Micro™ Apex One, Trend Micro™ Deep Security™, and Trend Micro Cloud One™.

I expanded my knowledge and further developed my soft skills. I really appreciate being a part of the program, and I look forward to continuing to learn and enhance my skills.

I am a graduate of the University of Texas at Dallas with a bachelor’s degree in information technology systems. In the late Spring of 2022, I was blessed with the opportunity to attend Trend Micro’s Certification Program in IT Security (CPITS8).

I received an in-depth training on Linux, AWS, networking, and threat detection as well as key Trend Micro products – Trend Micro Apex One™, Trend Micro™ Deep Security™, and Trend Micro Cloud One™.

Not only did I get certified in those products, but I also had the opportunity to enhance my soft skills, like customer relations and team collaboration. I am thankful for the opportunity that Trend Micro gave me. It’s been an invaluable learning experience.

I have a Bachelor of Science in Biology from the University of Texas at Arlington. Prior to enrolling in Trend Micro’s Certification Program in IT Security (CPITS), I worked in the healthcare industry for about 3 years as a software trainer specialist and as a business analyst. In those roles, I was able to truly specialize in the software, but I wanted to broaden my scope. I decided to make a career change and pursue cybersecurity to delve deeper into a more technical role that would still allow me to help people.

Through the CPITS program, I developed my soft skills even further and learned a lot of technical skills. I learned the fundamentals of networking, Linux, and AWS, and got certified in Trend Micro Apex One™. The knowledge I have acquired from this intensive 10-week program will serve me for the rest of my career. I am passionate and driven and would love the opportunity to learn even more about cybersecurity.

I grew up in the North Texas area and graduated from Plano West Senior High school in 2003. I have two older sisters and have been playing golf since the age of 3.

In the summer of 2020, I made the decision to return to college after an extended break. I received my bachelor’s in psychology from the University of North Texas later that summer. Additionally, I decided to make a significant career change and transitioned from a sales position to a brand-new career in cybersecurity. I’ve always had a passion for technology and computers, so of course, I was naturally drawn to cybersecurity – I knew it was what I want to do for the rest of my life.

My journey started with a six-month-long cybersecurity boot camp at the University of Texas where learned skills in Linux, PowerShell, penetration testing, and computer forensics, just to name a few. After the boot camp, I attained my CompTIA Security+ certification through hours and hours of self-study. Almost a full year later, I found myself still needing to land that first big job in I.T. Security

As luck would have it, I came across a wonderful opportunity with Trend Micro through the Certification Program in IT Security (CPITS). It’s specifically designed for individuals looking for their start in cybersecurity, who might be lacking the necessary skills and experience in the field. Fortunately, I was selected to be part of CPITS 8 for an intense 10-week certification program. Along with my team, I gained skills in computer networking, AWS, Trend Micro products, and the essential soft skills required to have a long-lasting and prosperous career in cybersecurity wherever our journey may take us.

I am a software engineering student at the University of Texas at Arlington.

In 2021, I completed training launched by Generation USA, where I learned a lot about the cloud, Linux, and Python fundamentals and obtained an AWS Junior Cloud Practitioner certification. I had started my career in IT by working as a repair technician for almost 2 years, gaining much valuable experience. After that, I worked as a help desk technician with hands-on experience in delivering technical support.

In April of 2022, I was grateful to become part of Trend Micro’s Certification Program in IT Security (CPITS). During the extensive 10-week training, I developed multiple skills, including training on essential products – Trend Micro Apex One™, Trend Micro™ Deep Security™, Trend Micro Vision One™, and Trend Micro™ Deep Discovery™. I also received in-depth training on multiple cloud platforms, including AWS, Marketplace, Kubernetes, and Dockers. There was also a heavy emphasis on developing critical soft skills like effective communication with teammates and customers, for example.

I have a bachelor of science degree in communication studies and a minor in business foundations from The University of Texas at Austin. The Certification Program in IT Security (CPITS)  gave me a deeper understanding of various aspects of cybersecurity and information technology while equipping me with the interpersonal skills necessary to succeed in the field.

During the rigorous 10-week training, I developed many skills, including knowledge of Trend Micro Apex One™ and Trend Micro Vision One™ and got certified in Trend Micro™ Deep Security™. I also received in-depth training on multiple cloud platforms, such as AWS, Kubernetes, and Dockers.

I adopted my idol Kobe Bryant’s “Mamba Mentality” and strive to become the best I can possibly be at whatever I do. Regardless of the situation or the task, I will put forth all my effort with no if, ands, or buts. I hope to continue my future in cybersecurity using the knowledge from the past 10 weeks along with all the new abilities I plan to continue accumulating. I am very excited to keep growing as a professional and as a person while continuing my path in cybersecurity to help keep the world safe from threats. Thank you for taking the time to learn more about me.

I have a bachelor’s degree in kinesiology.  After working in education for 5 years, I decided to pursue cybersecurity.  I wanted to find a new career path that would allow me to continue helping others. Cybersecurity is a great fit – I can grow professionally while protecting others from those who want to cause harm.

Through the Certification Program in IT Security (CPITS), I was blessed with the opportunity to build a solid foundation here at Trend Micro.  I received training on Linux, networking, and Amazon Web Services. I also learned red and blue teaming and how to use key Trend Micro solutions – Trend Micro Apex One™, Trend Micro™ Deep Security™, Trend Micro Vision One™, Trend Micro Cloud One™, and Trend Micro™ Deep Discovery™. Additionally, I got certified in Apex One and Deep Discovery.

While I gained a lot of technical skills, I also acquired many soft ones.  I learned how to collaborate with my colleagues, speak to customers, effectively ask questions, and communicate with others while being aware of the different levels of conversation.