I love computers, but I didn’t see many people like me in tech. That’s changing | Opinion

Since I was a little kid, I have been fascinated by computers.

That fascination inspired me to pursue Science, Technology, Engineering and Math-related extracurriculars, like attending a cyber summer camp, where I created my own game. I also participated in robotics and coding clubs at school.

Still, as an African American, it has not always been easy to pursue a STEM career in a field where I didn’t see a lot of people who look like me.

Having average grades also didn’t help, and I sometimes felt like I didn’t belong. One teacher changed that: Mr. Adam Scroggins, my Intelligent Transport Systems (ITS) and cybersecurity teacher at the Pierce County Skills Center. Thanks to him, I never gave up.

In addition to serving as a mentor and advisor, pointing me in the right direction as I navigated the STEM world, Mr. Scroggins was also encouraged me to apply to be honored during STEM Signing Day — an annual event presented by Boeing that honors graduating seniors committed to pursuing STEM education after high school. Along with my peers in states across the country, I signed a letter of intent to pursue my STEM goals, similar to college signing days for athletes.

As I prepare to head to Clover Park Technical College to pursue cybersecurity, this recognition has given me the boost of confidence I needed to start strong.

Having the opportunity to meet some of my fellow STEM Signing Day honorees filled me with optimism about what lies ahead. Our cohort will pursue education and careers in various fields, including aviation, physics, nuclear engineering, nursing and much more. I know our generation will achieve remarkable things and leave a positive mark on our communities.

Our state has so many opportunities. In the next decade, there will be 1.5 million job openings in Washington in many high-demand fields, like healthcare, data analytics, cyber security, construction and education. Discovering that most of these jobs require post-secondary education and credentials is part of why I chose to pursue my education at Clover Park Technical College.

I believe my generation is capable of great things, and I want to encourage students from middle to high school and beyond to explore and pursue their dreams. I urge my class and those who follow to identify the best education and training opportunities to help them get there.

I know financial hurdles can stand in the way, but help is available. Our state has one of the most generous financial aid programs in the country, and there’s a lot more aid than many people realize. I encourage my fellow graduates in the class of 2024 to fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (or FAFSA) if you haven’t already. It will help you understand what resources are available to you.

I also call on elected officials and education leaders to remove barriers that stand in the way of students succeeding in and completing education and training programs after high school. This is crucial for our success and the success of our state.

Finally, one last message to my fellow students: Perhaps you are a minority student worried about pursuing STEM, like I once was. As a person of color, I know what that feels like. But I have found that the STEM field is hungry for diversity.

Don’t overwhelm yourself thinking that you must know everything; you don’t need to. Technical skills can be learned.

All you need to bring is your passion for STEM and a few soft skills — like being a team player, communicating well and having strong leadership skills. Great opportunities will unfold.

Cliffton Hedwood II is a graduate of Graham-Kapowsin High School and the Pierce County Skills Center. He plans to attend Clover Park Technical College, majoring in cybersecurity.

This story was originally published June 11, 2024 at 5:00 AM.