Student Spotlight - Chris Von Reybyton

EvCC student Chris Von Reybyton (right) with fellow student pose in front of EvCC's cybersecurity wall.

Chris Von Reybyton is a former chef who decided go back to school and pursue an education in Information Technology and Cybersecurity. He chose EvCC because it was close to where he lived and because of the IT program. "EVCC gave me skills that have been proven to be important to the field of Information Technology and Cyber Security," Von Reybyton said. After earning his associates degree from EVCC, Chris enrolled at SANS Institute to pursue his Bachelor of Applied Science degree.

Tell us a little bit about yourself

I am a former chef who decided to go to college to re-educate into a different field.

Why did you choose to attend EvCC?

I chose EVCC because of its proximity and its IT program.

What are your educational and career plans?

I plan to work in Cybersecurity primarily in the field of Industrial Control Systems and CyberDefence.

What program are you pursuing currently at EvCC? What degrees/certifications have you earned so far?

I have earned my associates degree from EVCC and am currently enrolled at SANS Institute.

What interested you about that program?

I have always been interested in computers and have been building my own for 18 years.

How do you think the skills you learned at EvCC are helping you reach your goals?

EVCC gave me skills that have been proven to be important to the field of Information Technology and Cyber Security.

Describe the best experience you've had at EvCC

It is hard to give a best experience as every class had something amazing to learn.

EvCC student Chris Von Reybyton running a simulation on the IT department's cybersecurity wall.What was your favorite class project?

My 3 favorite class projects were for the Cloud class taught by Ryan where I built a retro gaming system on the cloud. The Assessing and Protecting Industrial Systems with Dennis I got to emulate a penetration test and work with "The Wall" which was super fun. And lastly the Digital Forensics class where I got to search through a digital hard drive to find information that would be used in a mock judicial presentation.

Who has helped you succeed at EvCC? What did that person do to help you?

Dennis Skarr and Ryan Masinelli have been the biggest help to my success. They have inspired me and pushed me to try my hardest to grow in the field of IT and Cybersecurity.

What advice do you have for new students?

My biggest advice is to not be afraid to ask for help from your instructors. They are here to teach you. Is there anything else you’d like to add? EVCC has given me many great opportunities and is a world class institution.