Computer Science
COMPUTER SCIENCE
Computer Science is the study of techniques to represent, store, and manipulate information within a computer system. Computer programming is a major component of such study, and is the focus of many of the CS courses included in the degree. Skagit Valley College offers a Bachelor of Science in Computer Science which is designed to broaden participation in computer science. It is a great option for those who wish to stay at SVC to earn a bachelor’s degree. The BSCS, unlike offerings at universities, does not include a calculus sequence, but there is applied math that is directly applicable to problem solving in computer science.
If you are thinking of pursuing a Bachelor’s Degree in Computer Science at a university, you should take the DTA/MRP to assure you get the calculus sequence required for a seamless transfer to university. Because each university has different language preferences, it’s a good idea to familiarize yourself with the requirements at the schools you are considering. Consult the receiving university’s catalog to determine which of the two programming course sequences, CS 142/CS 143 or CS 210/CS 211, best fits the requirements of that institution. If you are thinking of working with computers but aren’t sure if you want a four-year degree, please see the Multimedia, Web Developer, AAS-T, Multimedia, Web Designer, AAS, and Data Management and Analytics sections of this catalog.
Faculty and Staff
I earned a Master of Science, in Information Systems (MSIS) from Hawaii Pacific University. I’ve worked in computer science education ever since – for over 30 years at Scottsdale Community College and for 13 years at Xavier College Preparatory in Phoenix, Arizona, where I created their computer science program. I worked for the National Science Foundation-funded LighthouseCC, a program to broaden participation in Computer Science as well as Project Let’s Talk Code to grow computer science education on the Navajo Reservation.
I am passionate about broadening participation in software development. By creating more inclusive learning environments which attract and retain a diverse student population, we contribute positively to the demographic configuration of the tech workplace. Not only does this help the employer, it unlocks meaningful, rewarding, and lucrative careers for people in the Skagit Valley region.
I love to code. It’s like solving puzzles. It’s fun to collaborate with others to solve problems and overcome challenges together. In this program, we have created a supportive and inclusive environment where we can code, learn and grow together.
I hold a Bachelor of Science in Computer Science from Trinity University, a Master of Education from Texas A&M, and a Doctorate in Educational Technology from Pepperdine University. With over 30 years of experience as a software developer, I’ve contributed to projects at Northrop Grumman and Experian using languages like C, C++, and Python.
Passionate about increasing diversity in tech, I’ve spoken at conferences like SXSWEdu and volunteered with Microsoft TEALS to teach computer science to high school students. Since 2005, I’ve been a Microsoft Certified Trainer, and for the past decade, I’ve worked as a Principal Technical Trainer in cloud computing for AWS and Microsoft, holding multiple cloud certifications.
In 2018, I co-authored the AWS Certified Developer Official Study Guide. I’m committed to sharing my experiences to empower others through technology and education, with a focus on innovation and community impact.