Blog Post: Student Profile: Darrell Lewis

Darrell Lewis came to the Stride Center in July 2008, looking to jumpstart his career in IT. He began by taking the IC3 introductory computer course, and has continued his training with the A+ certification course. Darrell is successful at the Stride Center from the IC3 certification to landing in an IT job while still training. Encountering Darrell's jovial personality, you wouldn't imagine that his life has also had challenges. Growing up in New Orleans, Louisiana he "led a life that consisted of more failures than successes" he says. Darrell's biggest challenge was when his hometown was devastated by Hurricane Katrina. He was forced to relocate to San Francisco, California and has flourished.

Darrell came to the Stride Center looking for a career. He says, "I no longer just wanted a job. I wanted a career so I decided to give The Stride Center a chance and to live up to its mission". He has done exceptionally well, passing certification exams and successfully landing an IT position. Before landing his new job, he says, "I was sort of nervous during the interview. However, I was job-ready. I had been trained well." Darrell is a Computer Lab Resource Manager for Booker T. Washington Community Service Center. He is responsible for training, computer distribution, technical support, and management. Darrell will be A+ certified in June of 2009. He stays in touch with his twin brother and the rest of his family, and let's them know about his achievements here in San Francisco.