05/29/2026
Six of the nine employees in SOWELA's Information Technology department once attended classes on the very campus they now help support, a reflection of the college’s success in preparing students for high-demand technology careers while strengthening the workforce in Southwest Louisiana.
The students turned staff include Brian Dixon, Caleb Montz (starting this summer), DeQuain White, Josh Rowell, Josh Young, and Shaniece Gradney. All began their professional journeys through internships, student worker opportunities, and hands-on learning experiences while enrolled at the college. Those experiences helped them build technical skills, confidence, and professional connections before graduating.
For these graduates, working at SOWELA represents more than career success, it is an opportunity to give back to the institution that helped launch their futures.
“It’s honestly a full-circle moment,” said Shaniece. “I rally so hard for the students because I know just what they’re going through, and I push them just as all the faculty and staff pushed me.”
“The environment encouraged me to move into an employee role,” said DeQuain. “It didn’t feel like I had a job but more like I’m working with friends. Moving from student to intern to employee was very smooth because of the IT team. They gave me the confidence and encouraged me to do things on my own, especially as an intern.”
“Being able to shadow members of the team as an intern inspired me to continue as an employee,” shared Josh Young. “I knew I would have a chance to continue learning and growing professionally.”
All agree that helping students is what they are most proud of. “Even though we’re not helping directly, I love seeing students working toward their dreams,” said DeQuain.
“SOWELA gave me the opportunity to grow and succeed, and now I get to be on the other side of that helping students do the exact same thing,” said Shaniece. “The overall support from faculty and staff is really unmatched here, and I love it.”
The success of SOWELA graduates within the IT department also serves as an example for current students considering careers in technology. Seeing former students now working as professionals on campus reinforces the value of hands-on training, industry certifications, and workforce partnerships.
“I’m grateful for the opportunities SOWELA has given me,” said Brian. “SOWELA has helped me learn, grow, and continue building my skills, and I’m thankful to be part of a place that has played such a big role in my life.
Today, the college’s IT department stands as a visible example of that mission in action. Where students are not only trained for successful careers but are also inspired to return and invest in the next generation of SOWELA students.
