Before Greg Detmar enrolled in Mohawk College’s Computer Systems Technician - Network Systems program, he found it challenging to find a satisfying career path. After dropping out of high school twice, he worked with his dad in framing construction. As time went on, Greg realized he wanted a change. He completed his high school diploma and adopted a forward-thinking approach that led him right to information technology (IT) — and Mohawk College.
“I decided to see what other jobs were current at the time, and it seemed the technology industry was gaining momentum,” remembers Greg, who completed his Mohawk education in 2002. “I did enjoy computers, so I thought it was likely a good match. I chose Mohawk College because it was one of the closest colleges to where we lived and was recommended by my friends.”
His determination to find a career that truly interested him combined with his friends’ recommendation set in motion a career with IBM that now spans 20 years. That’s because Greg focused on being career-oriented, choosing a Mohawk program with a built-in co-op opportunity to get his foot in the door of the IT field.
“One of the main contributing factors why I chose the co-op program was to have an opportunity to prove my interests in real-time and gain experience and knowledge from the peers I would be working with,” he says.
During a placement opportunity with IBM, Greg handled various point-of-sale and completed computer repair and replacement tasks. He was even given the responsibility of a company vehicle and thousands of dollars’ worth of mobile inventory. Mohawk’s program had prepared Greg for these unique experiences with its solid foundation, from which he could launch an exciting IT career in.
“Having proven competency during the term, I was offered a student-on-call position while I completed my schooling,” he says. “After graduating, I was offered full-time.”
As an IBM z Hardware IT Specialist, Greg is a team leader. Given how quickly technology is changing, he says aspiring IT professionals must concentrate on several qualities. Among them, he lists: being adaptive, flexible, hardworking, and creative. Greg also stresses the importance of keeping up with education in today’s fast-paced workforce, where things are changing daily. The qualities Greg says IT professionals must have, he picked up at several points in his journey — from both professional and personal sources.
“I give a lot of credit to my family for the work ethic they have instilled in me,” he says. “The motto was also work hard, play hard — in that order. I enjoy the flexibility I have earned at IBM. Having management teams that have the same work ethic as I do helps also.”
Today, the program Greg completed, Computer Systems Technician - Network Systems, is defined by its practical hands-on learning. It helps students to develops the essential problem-solving skills critical to securing employment. The program covers: networks and connectivity; installing and configuring computer operating systems, server operating systems and services; Desktop Virtualization; and providing user support and troubleshooting techniques.
