Alumni Profile: Skyler Swiderski applies power of networking in IT and life

Skyler Swiderski is more than familiar with the importance of a well-maintained network. Regardless of whether it is a network that allows communication between computers, or the critical social networks that connect him with the Seminole State Alumni Association, Swiderski knows these connections matter.
As an educator, his network extends far beyond himself, passing his knowledge down to his students who take it further into the community.

Connecting with His Educational Database

While attending Crooms Academy of Information Technology (AoIT), two Dual Enrollment professors made a big impact of Swiderski. Patricia Cason and Rebekah Gabel got him excited about learning, inspired him to become a teacher himself and pushed him to greater heights. He credits Gabel for helping him stick with his field. “She encouraged and convinced me not to give up on computer science and programming during high school. She made web programming interesting and exciting, and allowed me to see what I could do when I put my mind to it.”

At Seminole State, he took his first steps toward his goal of becoming a professor. He received a scholarship from the Foundation for Seminole State College and also found work at the College. “My first job was to be a department tutor at the College,” he said. “I spent over two years as a tutor, a role that allowed me to begin applying the skills and knowledge I gained at Seminole State in real-time.” As he pursued his Associate in Science in Computer Programming and Bachelor of Science in Information Systems Technology, Professor Marwan Shaban guided him through the programs. In Shaban’s classes, Swiderski learned from interactive code examples and benefited from Shaban’s mentorship and professional development. “He represents passion through teaching, and I find him to be a great example of what teachers should aspire to represent.”

Forging New Paths

Now, as a Dual Enrollment professor at Crooms AoIT, he strives to represent what he believes a teacher should be and encourages all students to think ahead in their education and goals. “My advice is to keep at it. It is truly worth it. The benefits may not always be immediate, but it will help a lot in the long run.” It was through his hands-on experience he gained through the IST programs and his time as a tutor at the College, partnered with the professional connections that he maintained, that led to Seminole County Public Schools hiring him.

He champions networking and making as many connections as possible. “Networking is such an important – almost pivotal aspect to careers and generals of job hunting,” Swiderski said. “Take the time to truly get to know people and take the opportunities when they present themselves - because you never know where it might take you.”

In his free time, Swiderski gets creative playing Dungeons and Dragons and spends time outside camping and hiking but is continually looking to build his credentials and network as he works toward his goal of becoming a full-time professor. He earned his master’s degree from Florida State University while working for SCPS and as an adjunct professor at Seminole State. While he considers a doctorate program in the future, he credits the College for his strong grasp of his subject and how it also, “instilled in me the importance of mentorship and educational impact.”