One of the biggest ways CAST Tech impacted me was through the three years I spent learning about IT and cybersecurity from my amazing teacher, Mrs. Jones.” Joseph Gentile, reflected on his time as a student at CAST Tech. According to Joseph, learning skills such as communication, professionalism, leadership, and financial responsibility are all assets he developed as a CAST Tech student which prepared him to work in a professional environment. Additionally, experiences such as competing in Cyberpatriot, a national youth cyber competition, was a momentous experience that shaped not only Joseph’s experience as a CAST Tech student, but his experience in the field of cybersecurity. It has all come full circle, as Joseph has had the opportunity to mentor students in the CyberPatriot program. Through this experience, Joseph is able to teach them what he learned while helping to build the next generation of future cyber leaders.
As a sophomore at CAST Tech Joseph was named a National Cyber Scholar and awarded a $3,000 scholarship to help pay for an important cybersecurity certification. This award and certification equipped Joseph to enter the field of cybersecurity early on while simultaneously motivating him to keep pushing forward in his studies. Joseph also had the opportunity to complete an internship with San Antonio ISD in the IT department, which served as a launchpad for future opportunities. After high school in 2024, Joseph continued to work as an IT Technician with San Antonio ISD where he gained hands-on experience troubleshooting technology issues while supporting both staff and students across the district.
More recently, Joseph has been working full-time as an Instructional Assistant at Northside ISD, where works to provide support for students, teachers, and administration at a local middle school. Additionally, Joseph earned his Associate’s degree in Cybersecurity this spring. He plans to continue pursuing a Bachelor’s degree in cybersecurity as well, and eventually a Master’s degree in Education Administration. Joseph’s long-term goal is to become a CTE teacher for information technology so that he can share his knowledge while helping students build skills for their future career. His journey through high school and college thus far is a testament to the outcomes that are possible when CAST students take advantage of the opportunities offered. Joseph’s career is just beginning and we can’t wait to see what other great things he will accomplish.