My name is Evan J. Hilliard. I am 23 years old and currently reside in Charlotte NC. I am a Computer Operator for Novant Health (a large health care provider here in the southeast) as well as a Lab Facilitator for Central Piedmont Community College (one of the biggest community college systems in the country) I participated in the BDPA HSCC in 2000 and 2001.
When I first learned about the BDPA, I had already been into computers and technology for quite some time. The HSCC program seemed to be right up my alley to develop new skills as well as the opportunity to network amongst my fellow I.T. peers. What I thought would initially be something cool to do for a summer quickly turned into very lengthy and life changing experience.
I cannot put into word how much I grew as an IT professional, but just as a person interacting with an organization that had a family feel to it. There are so many positives about being on a HSCC team … I do not even know where to begin. You learn how build team work skills, working with a deadline, presentation skills, leadership development, networking skills, research\creative skills, technical skills…..the list is almost endless.
The only negative the ever comes to mind is the amount of students who are unaware and do not take advantage of all the wonderful things HSCC program has to offer. After the HSCC, I went on to participate in the first IT Showcase and served as a mentor/volunteer for students in my local chapter as well as the national level.
I hope that by sharing my experiences and knowledge with rest of my peers that it will motivate everyone to get involved and come together to do some great things. I thank the BDPA for all of the wonderful people and experiences I have had throughout the years and I only expect more from the premiere IT organization in the nation.