Using the knowledge and skills acquired in the Business and Technology Management (BTM) Master’s program at Stevenson University, Tonia and Nick Ramsel both discovered new career opportunities in the technology industry. Nick explains, “Almost immediately after graduation, I was being offered mid-level IT opportunities. These careers were not a possibility without my degree.” Nick is currently in his third year at General Dynamics Information Technology where he works as a Financial Data Analyst. His wife, Tonia, is a Technical Support Education Specialist at Tenable. In addition to her work at the cyber vulnerability firm, she is in her ninth year as an adjunct faculty member for Stevenson University Online. Tonia credits her master’s degree for advancing her career: “The BTM program provided me with the ability to think creatively about improving technology. I have the ability to understand technology at a higher level and communicate the needs of projects with those that have a deeper technological background.”
Both Tonia and Nick have learned valuable lessons during their time working in IT. Tonia believes that if you want to excel, you need to surpass basic requirements. She continues to seek professional growth and pursue new opportunities outside her comfort zone. To thrive in the IT field, Tonia feels that having a strong work ethic, thinking creatively, and being a team player are crucial attributes. Nick adds that it is important to always be open to being taught. He shares, “Either in school or on the job, the more you try to learn, the greater your skill set becomes.” Nick lists the key characteristics needed to succeed in a technology role are flexibility, patience, and an open mind.
As IT professionals, Tonia and Nick have seen first-hand the quick rate that the technology field continues to evolve and change. Tonia says, “It’s amazing what happens in such a short period of time and I think it will continue to become more efficient.” She notes that there will also be greater risks with security: “Hackers will continue to find ways to compromise consumer information as technology evolves. We will see more data breaches and invasion of privacy.” Nick has seen a trend toward open-source technology solutions. He comments, “More and more technology platforms will allow end users to create user content. I believe that there will be a shift where everyday people will be able to contribute to a global system.” Both Tonia and Nick use the internet, as well as research, current events, and professional development to keep their skills current. Nick is particularly interested in the advancements being made with Big Data, while Tonia is keen to learn more about Artificial Intelligence. Stevenson University Online is proud to spotlight Tonia (Cristino) ‘08 ‘10M and Nick Ramsel ‘13 ‘14M for their work in information technology as we celebrate National IT Professionals Day.
Stevenson University Online’s master’s in Business and Technology Management addresses the demand for dynamic and experienced professionals in today’s increasingly global, technology-driven, and information-rich business world. Within six months after graduation, over 90 percent of our BTM graduates are employed. To learn more about our Business and Technology Management program, contact us at suo-inquiry@stevenson.edu or 1-877-531-7118.