Eastern Alumni Spotlight: Cliff Hamilton

Eastern Center for Arts and Technology () 2003 Computer Network Administration/Hatboro-Horsham High School graduate, Cliff Hamilton, is the Systems and Network Engineer for Innovative IT Concepts, Inc. based in Warminster, PA.

Hamilton has been interested in computers since he was in the fifth grade and his interest just grew stronger as he continued through school. Hamilton learned about EASTERN’s Computer Network Administration program through his cousin who was also interested in the program.

Together they went to EASTERN’s Open House, where Hamilton immediately filled out a registration card.

“When I heard more about the program at Open House, it felt like I found my calling. It was kind of like a Johnny Five ‘mega input’ moment for me,” said Hamilton. “This program is like winning the lottery! You will put yourself ahead of all of your classmates by two years without a doubt, saving money on college and better yet, accelerating your way through college, which is a necessity these days to remain competitive in the job market. I finished my Master’s degree in the same time it took my friends to finish their B.S.! For any student looking at the program that is interested in technology and is that ‘go-to computer guy’ this program is the perfect fit with countless opportunities to go even further. I simply would not be where I am now if it wasn't for EASTERN’s Computer Network Administration program.”

As the Systems and Network Engineer for Innovative IT Concepts, Hamilton performs every function from unboxing a computer to setting up entire networks of all sizes, locations, geographies and complexities. He deals with network technologies such as TCP/IP, DNS, DHCP, but also handles Cisco, routing, high level Microsoft Exchange Migrations, and disaster recovery. Since Innovative IT Concepts, Inc. is a small company, they all are very well-versed in every aspect of computing.

After completing his EASTERN program and graduation from Hatboro-Horsham High School, Hamilton continued his education at DeVry University for his Bachelor of Science in Networks and Communications Management (NCM), and then The Keller School of Management for his Master’s of NCM with a focus in
security. He has also earned many other industry standard certifications.

EASTERN’s Computer Network Administration program is a two-year, half-day program for high school juniors and seniors in which students must pass the Certified Linux Administrator (CLA) exam in the first year and are prepared for two other industry certification exams: Microsoft Certified Technology Specialist
(MCTS) and Novell Certified Administrator (NCA). First-year seniors are welcome providing there is room in the class.

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EASTERN is a public school serving students in nine Eastern Montgomery County school districts. Those districts include Abington, Bryn Athyn, Cheltenham, Hatboro-Horsham, Jenkintown, Lower Moreland, Springfield, Upper Dublin and Upper Moreland. Students benefit from specialized career programs that give them a competitive edge in college or in a career. The campus is at 3075 Terwood Road in Willow Grove. For more information, please contact Amy Shields, Organizational Advancement Director, at 215-784-4806, or visit the school’s website at www.eastech.org. Like Us? Become a fan on Facebook – www.Facebook.com/EasternCenter.