Network Engineering Technology
Apply NowProgram Spotlight
The NETX curriculum is industry-driven, centered on the current technologies of the Networking industry and related fields; it is designed to serve students entering the field, as well as students who are seeking to upgrade their skills in specific areas.
Internship Opportunities
Contact Shruti Ranade at ranades@smccd.edu for more information regarding internships.
Employment Statistics
Average Salary in California
Jobs Growth Rate over 10 Years*
Network and Computer Systems Administrators
Computer Support Specialists
*National average growth rate for all occupations is 8%
Source: U.S. Department of Labor
The Field
Information Technology, including security, telecommunications and network and computer systems engineering and administration, is an essential component to almost every organization, large or small. It provides the foundation for a productive, secure and connected workplace, allowing organizations to operate effectively and efficiently.
In order to succeed in Network Engineering Technology, students should possess a passion for technology and will need to develop strong organizational, critical thinking and problem solving skills.
The Network Engineering Technology Program at Skyline College
The Network Engineering Technology Program provides students with entry-level and advanced training in the fields of Network Technology and Security, including LAN Technology, cabling, fiber optics, routing, firewalls, server administration, desktop support and PC configuration and repair. The curriculum is industry driven, centered on the current technologies of the Networking industry and related fields; it is designed to serve students entering the field as well as students who are seeking to upgrade their skills in specific areas.
Skyline College offers one Associate of Science Degree in Network Engineering for a clear path to transfer to a four-year institution. We also offer four Certificates of Achievement in a variety of concentrations which provide a head start on the road to employment.
Check Out a Class
Would you like to sit in on a class and observe? Questions about the program or the classes? Contact Norman del Prado, MBA, MS, PMP, CISSP, CCAI, Professor and Chair of Network Engineering Technology Department or Radni PirehAbdollahKandi, NETX Assistant Professor.
Looking for a list of classes offered this semester?
Check out the current class schedule.All Courses
NETX 400 Introduction to Local Area Network (3 units)
An introduction to networking, with focus on local area networks (LAN). Topics include LAN hardware (network interface cards, hubs, switches, and SOHO routers), LAN topologies, network administration through MS Windows, the OSI reference model and the TCP/IP protocol stack. Ethernet operation, IP network addressing and routing, and TCP/IP transport protocols are explored with lecture, on-line module and hands-on activity. This course is aligned with the first module of the Cisco Network Academy (CCNA-1) and includes a student enrollment in the Academy.
NETX 401 Survey of Networking and Wireless Technologies (3 units)
Introduction to today’s convergent communications technologies. Course will examine the structure, function and services of the networks and systems used to provide voice, data, and wireless communications. This course has been designed to provide anyone interested with insight into the workings and opportunities of this dynamic and exciting field.
NETX 402 Cybersecurity Infrastructure Essentials (3 units)
An introduction to cybersecurity topics with emphasis on infrastructure components. Covers topics on the mechanics, causation and prevention of threats and attacks. Topics include network perspective of cryptography, public key, and AAA services. Students gain practical experience software simulation, hardware appliance, penetration testing software and protocol analyzer.
NETX 403 Cloud Infrastructure Essentials (3 units)
Introduces students to fundamentals of cloud technology with focus on infrastructure on managing and administering. Covers topics such as virtualization, architecture of cloud systems, access control, networking as well as privacy and security issues. Students gain practical experience for cloud platforms through a series of software simulation and hands-on labs using various cloud services.
NETX 405 Data Center Infrastructure Essentials (3 units)
An introduction to data center topics with emphasis on hardware infrastructure components. Topics covered include Power, HVAC, Security, Telecomm, Network, both from a design and operations perspective. Students gain practical experience in software design, hardware appliance, operations and testing practices.
NETX 410 Structured Wiring and Cabling (3 units)
Hands-on technical introduction to the EIA/TIA 568 and related standards of Structured Wiring and Cabling systems for Networking infrastructures. Covers tools, test equipment, cables, terminations, and specifications. Students will install, test and troubleshoot data lines, network patch panels, hybrid cabling and PoE distribution. Course is based on Fiber Optics Association CPCT & CFOT certification standards.
NETX 411 Fiber Optics Technology (3 units)
An introductory course in fiber optics technology that will include the theory of fiber optic communications, fiber systems design, network construction, and fiber optic test equipment. Instructor-directed hands-on splicing and working with test equipment will be a component of the course.
NETX 413 Wireless Local Area Networks (3 units)
An in depth, technical, design and implementation of wireless local area networks. Students will be introduced to the technology, infrastructure, application and installation of wireless networks. Students will install and administer a wireless network using Cisco product lines.
NETX 420 PC Configuration and Repair (6 units)
Provides preparation for A+ certification. A hands-on technical course designed to provide an in-depth understanding of PC hardware and software from installation and repair outlook. Materials covered will include beginning and advanced software, hardware components and configuration, operating systems and how they control the PC. Includes direct hands-on experience with the tools and skills required for entry-level employment.
NETX 430 Introduction to Routers (3 units)
Examines common protocols, IP networking concepts and subnetting techniques. Includes instructor directed hands-on activities. Patterned after Cisco training guidelines.
NETX 431 Network Switches - Concepts and Applications (3 units)
Examines switching protocols, spanning tree protocols, virtual LANs and other specific models. Basic design of switch configurations and the use of switches in network architecture will be covered. Includes instructor-directed hands-on activities. Patterned after Cisco training guidelines.
NETX 432 Routing Concepts and Applications (3 units)
Advanced routing concepts and configuration on large internetworks. Students will configure and manage routers by implementing common protocol such as EIGRP and OSPF. Other topics include access-list, routing principles, VLSM and WAN technology. This course is aligned with 4th module of Cisco Network Academy Course (CCNA-4).
NETX 435 Network Security (3 units)
Introduction to network security using firewall and VPN (virtual private network) technology. Students will be exposed to the theory and application of both firewall and VPN network architecture. Students will have the opportunity for hands-on practice to administer security policy and VPN configuration using both Check Point software and Cisco's ASA (Adaptive Security Appliance).
NETX 439 Troubleshooting the Internetwork (3 units)
Focus on troubleshooting methodology and techniques on routers and switches in a network infrastructure. Students will learn to use existing software diagnostic features and use a protocol analyzer in the analysis and troubleshooting of networks.
NETX 440 Introduction to Microsoft Server Administration (3 units)
An introduction to Server Administration specific to Microsoft Server. Coverage includes the functions and concepts of local and wide area networks, Microsoft server, user and group accounts and domain services. Hands-on experience provided in configuring and troubleshooting servers, workstations, and peripheral devices. Patterned after Microsoft Solutions guidelines.
NETX 443 Introduction to Linux Administration (3.5 units)
An introduction to Linux administration in a networked environment, including instructor-directed hands-on activities. Students will install a Linux system and perform basic administrative tasks using the BASH shell. Topics include system architecture, FHS, GNU and UNIX commands, devices and Linux file systems, network configuration and troubleshooting, and printing systems. Patterned after Linux Professional Institute and CompTIA Linux certification objectives.
NETX 670 Cooperative Education in Network Engineering Technologies (4 units)
Students may receive credit for work experience related to their major field or to their established career goal. Seminars and individual conferences are scheduled at convenient times during the semester to assist the student in establishing learning objectives related to the student's employment. Students are given appropriate assignments related to the stated objectives and graded in accordance with the college's established grading system. As an alternative, related instruction classes meeting one hour per week, usually in the evening, are available for those students who prefer or need a more structured learning process. Four units of credit for 300 hours worked per semester may be earned by students with jobs related to their academic or occupational majors or goals. May be repeated for credit up to 16 units. This limitation applies to Occupational Cooperative Education work experience courses offered within the SMCCCD.
| Program | Type | Total Units |
|---|---|---|
| Network Engineering | AS | 60 Units |
| Network Engineering | CA | 36 - 36.5 Units |
| Advanced Computer User Support | CS | 15 Units |
| Entry Level Computer User Support | CC | 9 Units |
| Wiring and Installation | CC | 9 Units |
What is the Network Engineering Program?
The Program provides students with entry-level and advanced training in the fields of Network Engineering, Network Security, PC Configuration and Repair, and Server Administration. We are a Cisco Networking Academy.
What does the Program offer?
We offer Career Certificates in Network Engineering and its related fields, as well as an Associate Science Degree in Network Engineering.
How long does it take?
Career Certificates can be earned in two semesters; the Network Engineering Certificate in three. The AS Degree depends on course load and prior college education (see a Skyline counselor for assistance).
How much does it cost?
Costs include a few basic tools (approx. $300), textbooks, student fees, and parking permits.
Do I qualify?
General requirements for the field are good color vision, basic math and English skills, and basic computer skills.
Are jobs available?
Job forecasts by the US Department of Labor are favorable; visit Bureau of Labor Statistics for more information.
What classes do you offer?
We offer classes in electronics, structured wiring & cabling, LAN, wireless LAN, Routing, Switching, Network Security, Server Administration, and PC Configuration & Repair.
Who teaches the classes?
Our Classes are taught by working professionals.
When are classes held?
Skyline observes the semester system; classes are held evenings and Saturday mornings.
I am employed in the technology field; can I receive credit for my employment?
Yes, up to 16 units of work experience may be applied to the AS Degree; contact Radni PirehAbdollahKandi for information: pirehabdollahkandir@smccd.edu.
I have experience in the field, is advanced placement possible?
Yes, advanced placement is granted on a case-by-case basis.
Do you offer vendor or industry training?
We offer classes to prepare students for the CompTIA A+, Cisco CCNA and Check Point CCSA.
Can I visit a class?
Yes, you can sit in on a class; contact Norman del Prado at delpradon@smccd.edu.
How to get started:
For specific questions regarding course prerequisites or advance placement, contact Norman del Prado at delpradon@smccd.edu
Membership
| Name | Position | Organization |
| Norman del Prado | Chair NETX Program Coordinator | Skyline College |
| Quintin Cortes | Senior IT Analyst | Department of Veteran Affairs |
| Dr. Ashley Kualii | Head of Governance | Menthol Protocol |
| Marcell Mitchell | JNCIA, CCNA Sr. Infrastructure Engineer | IBM Consulting |
| Radni PirehAbdollahKandi | Assistant Professor | Skyline College (SPWD) |
| Anthony Portelli | CCNA Senior Network Engineer | S.F. Public Utilities |
| Ahmad Rezazadeh | CCIE Manager Network Engineering | Stanford Health Care |
| Daisy Saulls | Project and Program Manager | Equinix |
| Dean Scurries | Telecom Manager | Equinix |
| Sam Zandi | CCIE Principal Architect |
Meeting Minutes
| Minutes |
| October 2022 |
| October 2021 |
| October 2020 |
| October 2019 |
| October 2018 |
| October 2017 |
| October 2016 |
| November 2015 |
| March 2012 |
| October 2013 |
Upon completion of the program students will be able to:
- Develop the skills and knowledge required for entry level positions within the networking technology field and related fields
- Expand their skills and knowledge for possible advancement within their field for those currently employed in the industry
- Prepare for IT industry-recognized certifications
Location: Building 7
Email: ranades@smccd.edu
Phone: (650) 738-4310
| Type | Status | Title | Days | Time | Instructor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
  |
OPEN | NETX 430 - 56341 - Introduction to Routers | T W Th | 6:00pm-7:40pm | Pirehabdollahkandi, R |
| |
OPEN | NETX 430 - 56341 - Introduction to Routers | F | TBA | Pirehabdollahkandi, R |
Aaron
Pre-NETX: Had an interest in Information Technology, but no previous experience
Post-NETX: Network Engineer for the Air Force, with NET+, SEC+, CEH, CCNA, CCNP certifications "With no prior IT experience, I enrolled in NETX courses at Skyline College. Through these courses, I gained skills that significantly propelled me ahead of my peers in my professional field. The knowledge I acquired during these classes became an avid interest that ultimately charted a course toward a fulfilling and gratifying career. The instructors ensured a comprehensive and in-depth learning environment, all while maintaining an enjoyable atmosphere."
Ahmad
Pre-NETX: A.S. in Electrical Engineering, but no training or experience with networks
Post-NETX: CCNA, CCNP, and CCIE certified; currently working as a network engineer at Stanford
Hospital and Clinics
"The experience I had in the lab was amazing. I had everything I need in the lab to experiment and study, which made me more interested to learn. All the teachers I had at Skyline were unbelievably caring and passionate about their job. They all do their best to make sure the students learn passionately and show them how they can apply what they learn to the real life. Read the book, and use the lab as much as you can...the program was very helpful to me to graduate and get a good job in a short period of time. The program made me realize that Computer Network is what I love and enjoy to do. And now I have a job as a network engineer after three years of being in the program.”
Ana
Pre-NETX: B.A. in Business Information Systems, but no prior IT experience
Post-NETX: A.S. in Network Engineering; currently managing the Skyline Microcomputer Lab
"I became interested in networking after I started working at the Microcomputer lab. Working at the lab encouraged me to get more involved in technology. I also have to interact with technicians about computer and network issues for the lab so I thought understanding how networks and computers work will help. I am using the knowledge I have learned from the program to identify or resolve computer or network problems. The program is a great experience.The hands-on training was a great practice to have a better understanding of how networks work. I had a terrific experience with all of my teachers. They are very professional, easy to approach and very knowledgeable. It was really great to have this opportunity since other colleges or universities don’t offer these resources.”
Anthony
Pre-NETX: High school graduate without IT experience
Post-NETX: A.S. in Network Engineering and transferred to SFSU majoring in Computer Science;
interned at SFPUC and worked his way up to Senior Network Engineer
"The Networking Program has a lot of interesting students with IT experience who are eager to help one another grow and learn. The professors bring their unique industry work experience to prepare students for certifications and employment. They are able to instruct a wide range of students from just starting out to the IT experienced. This program embraces teamwork where teachers and students work together to complete hands-on labs, which prepares students for real-life IT employment. I have created a network of people through the course of the program that I can depend on for advice and guidance throughout my IT career. The program has given me the confidence and skills to succeed in the IT field."
Brian
Pre-NETX: B.A. in Computer Science and Sociology; works as an IT manager for a non-profit
Post-NETX: Advanced his knowledge of networking and recevied a salary increase
"The best thing is the hands-on. Working with real equipment is so important. Bring able to configure real routers, switches and firewalls is such a valuable experience. The instruction is amazing. The instructors are professionals from the industry who can guide me. I knew I was in good hands.After the routing class, I reworked the IP configuration at my workplace, separating the voice and data. My CEO gave me extreme praise---and a financial reward! If you were to ask my boss what he thinks about the gain in my experience in the one-and-a-half years I’ve spent in the program, he’d tell you it’s tremendous!"
Fatima
Pre-NETX: B.Sc. in Information Systems (Nigeria), but no training or experience with networks
Post-NETX: Fiber Optic Technician certified; currently working as a Network Technician at Chevron
"I enjoyed the program because it gave me the knowledge and skill needed to excel in
any IT job. The classes covered at the program were very broad. It was difficult for
me to get any entry level IT position prior to my enrollment at the program. However,
after two semesters I was able to land a job as a Network Technician through HCL American
for an assignment with Chevron. During the program, the instructors were very supportive
and resourceful. I am very pleased with the program, and I am excited about my future
in IT!"
Ian
Pre-NETX: B.A. (with honors) in Electronics and Computing from the UK Open University, but wished
to be more educated in Network Engineering; employed as an electronic technician by
the University of California to work in the biomedical department at San Francisco
General Hospital
Post-NETX: A.S. in Network Engineering which allowed Ian to branch out in his employment with
UCSF
“The many courses I undertook with professor Norman Del Prado of Skyline College were very instructive in academic content and practical content through lab work. I gained very valuable experience…and I have had the privilege of studying under some wonderful tutors and passionate mentors that have given me a new outlook on life. I am a committed life-long learner and look forward to gaining yet further knowledge as my studies progress.”
Joseph
Pre-NETX: A.S. Degree in Computer Technology; worked as a technical support representative for
an internet company in the Philippines
Post-NETX: Completed Telecommunications (TCOM) program
“I enrolled in a private college, but it was too expensive and didn’t use real equipment---they used virtual machines. The [Skyline] TCOM classes are well-structured, straight forward and provide hands-on lab experience with real equipment, which I believe is an effective learning approach in understanding technical topics such as configuration of Cisco routers and switches. They have great instructors who work in the field and are knowledgeable of the subjects they teach. I encourage anyone who wants an IT education to enroll in the TCOM program. It’s hands-on lab with real equipment, gives you well-structured course materials and has really knowledgeable experienced instructors, who want you to succeed in the IT industry.”
Larry
Pre-NETX: Looking to find out more about information security, telecommunications, and network
engineering
Post-NETX: A.S. in Network Engineering and inducted into Phi Theta Kappa; currently working
as the Director of Solution Consulting
"The hands-on learning offered at Skyline College really helped me excel in the program. It was more than just a text booking learning program. It combined classroom lectures with hands-on learning. This was the game changer for me. Having access to business grade equipment to create real life scenarios and solve for them really created an immersive and incredible learning experience for me. I am currently working as the Director of Solution Consulting for a business-to-business provider of cloud-based, on-demand software for supply chains for computer, telecom and electronics systems, components, and services. I leverage the knowledge I gained from the Information Technology program at Skyline every day. I would recommend this program to anyone interested in learning more, expanding their skills or looking to enter a career in the Information Technology field. This is an excellent program with incredible instructors who are there to help guide and mentor you."
Lisa
Pre-NETX: No degree, but had experience with IT network and server administration
Post-NETX: ASQ Quality Auditor and Lean Six Sigma Green Belt certified; received A.S. in Network
Engineering and worked as Quality Assurance Technical Manager at Genentech
"I was amazed at how much equipment was available for our learning and lab work, and also how it was always the latest and greatest technology. I couldn’t have asked for a better experience, collaboration and learning environment. I’d give most of the credit for the success of this program to Norm del Prado and the faculty of this department. Norm (how we affectionately call him) was our Network professor; he is super funny and energetic - ABOVE ALL - He is SUPER KNOWLEDGEABLE! Our labs were amazing and most of it very applicable to real life scenarios. Thanks to this program, and the passionate teachers at Skyline and Cañada College, at the end of this semester, I will have five Associate in Science degrees, and I was able to start my dream job with a great company!
Marcel
Pre-NETX: B.A. in Studio Art from SFSU
Post-NETX: Network engineer at a top pharmaceutical company in the Bay Area
"The hands-on labs are the reason I passed certification tests because I learned how to operate networking equipment rather than just memorizing how to do it from videos and books. Troubleshooting is crucial at a job site and it helps when you have physically configured a device rather than relying on network simulators. The internet today has many simulations and resources to choose from, many of which are very helpful in the learning process, but nothing comes close to replacing the hands-on experience and camaraderie you gain here at Skyline. There is not one bad teacher in the bunch. Everyone is unique and accessible with interesting stories to tell from their jobs. This program has taken me from consumer level knowledge to an engineer level of understanding when it comes to networking. After a few years of taking classes in the program, I was able to obtain a CCNA certification, as well take on more challenging roles at my current job."
Mary
Pre-NETX: Decade of experience in software and desktop support; MCP certified
Post-NETX: CISCO certified and currently working for a terrific software company as a support
engineer
“Being able to wire and configure the Cisco routers and switches let me see how the concepts and network protocols we were learning about really worked. It was also fun to troubleshoot any issues, giving us a chance to use the tools and commands we were learning, and figure out how to resolve them ourselves.The instructors could be tough, but in a really good way. If something wasn't working, they would give suggestions or ask just the right questions to get us back on the right path, allowing us to solve problems on our own. I am now working for a terrific software company as a support engineer. The concepts and skills from I learned from the program directly applied to the job interviews, as well as day to day tasks in my job."
Michael
Pre-NETX: Lab Aide at Skyline
Post-NETX: A.S. in Network Engineering
"As a student from the NETX program, in April 2019, I ended up in an internship program for the San Francisco Public Utilities Commission (SFPUC). At the SFPUC, I gained additional knowledge on hardware/network infrastructure and additional knowledge on troubleshooting technology. At present time, I support, manage, and maintain mobility/cellular programs for the organization’s business. The NETX Program and its hands-on method of teaching allowed me to develop the skills to support the many different technologies of the organization’s infrastructure."
Oscar
Pre-NETX: Degree in Music Performance (Classical Guitar)
Post-NETX: Currently a multi-certified technical support engineer and an experienced manager
of enterprise implementation of information systems
“I used to play with my computer and wanted to know how things work, but my knowledge was very limited. Networking was pretty new and strange to me, but I got more interested when I started getting into the hands-on with the Cisco routers. I continued with the classes, and it was I think a period of two months during which I prepared myself to take the CCNA. And I passed the CCNA. After my CCNA I had an internship with PARC which was specifically working with Cisco gear. I enrolled in the program knowing very little, and now I have a career as a support engineer, doing work that I really enjoy doing."
Randy
Pre-NETX: No IT experience prior to enrolling in the Program
Post-NETX: Currently a Network Specialist for a school district and working toward his A.S. degree
“The Labs are the same tasks that I am asked to do at work and it has always helped me get through the projects I am assigned. I love it. From the first class I took, I saw that the teachers for the Network Engineering Program were in the portion of the Tech industry in which they were teaching and this is an amazing advantage for those of at the time who were trying to get into the Tech field. They taught practices and procedures they themselves had done that day or that week. They also showed you what worked and what didn't work in the real world. I never experienced any other schools or programs that can give you the real time industry education and the real time industry hands on experience that the TCOM courses give you. My Superintendent took one look at the work I did, which is what I learned the night before and hired me on the spot. The training is that good. Thanks for everything."
Rita
Pre-NETX: A.S. Degree in Electronic Engineering from El Salvador
Post-NETX: Earned A.S. degree in Network Engineering and completed an internship with NASA; transferred
to SJSU majoring in Industrial Technology
"My experience of the hands-on labs was really challenging and fun. This allowed me to understand all the concepts beyond the language barrier (I was still an ESL student when I joined the program). The experience of working with real equipment gives you the experience, confidence, and real life difficulties that just theory cannot give you. It is by far a perfect way to learn. IT people are all about hands-on experiences, this program is perfect for us! The teachers were amazing, their dedication and enthusiasm was contagious! They were very supportive at every step of the way, always approachable and ready to help with any issues or questions we had. The program has opened up an entire new world for me."
Roman
Pre-NETX: Teacher's Assistant at Skyline
Post-NETX: A.S. in Network Engineering; Cisco and VMWare certified
"While I was a student in the NETX program in 2019, I got an internship program for the San Francisco Public Utilities Commission (SFPUC). At the SFPUC, I learned more about hardware/network infrastructure and troubleshooting technology. My current projects are focused on the Tech Lending Library, re-Imagine, and the hardware inventory for the organization."
Ryan
Pre-NETX: B.S. in Business Management from SFSU; knowledge in working with computers, but none
in networking technologies
Post-NETX: Senior Network Analyst in the public education sector
"My memories of being in the Network Engineering program were fun, exciting, and challenging. I do remember feeling overwhelmed on the first day with the information, but that also motivated me to learn even more to understand it. I also appreciated the fact that many of the instructors in the program are from the industry and some are former students of the program. Another differentiation factor with the Network Engineering program is that I got hands-on experience with real industry equipment instead of just focusing on the virtual environment. To me, this was valuable experience that gave me an edge in job opportunities as well as a taste of what it is like to work in the industry. Overall, I highly recommend this program for people who like teamwork and who also like to build a network of people that may become your co-workers in the future."
Sammy
Pre-NETX: Farmer in Tanzania; no IT experience, but an interest in technology and networking
Post-NETX: CCNA certified and working on a VoIP project linking East Africa and the Bay Area
"At Skyline they have this hands-on with switches and routers. These classes really need hands-on...that’s the big difference between Skyline and other colleges. I began taking classes at another college but could not get help from the teachers which made it very hard. And the equipment was online (virtual) but to me I need to touch the equipment and build the cables. I like the classes. My teachers at Skyline answered any questions I have--the teachers will help you. It’s up to yourself what level you take these classes to. The teachers will help you. I kept doing labs and finally when I’m ready I take the CCNA. And I passed the CCNA."
Norman del Prado
Industry Experience: 30+ years of network technology experience; currently project management consultant for large-scale technology projects with the San Francisco Airport Commission for Terminal 2 and the Airport Campus security access; previous employers include NetXperts, Hitachi, Exodus, NetCom, United Airlines, Shutterfly, Centigram, DSC Communication, and Litton.
Education and Certifications: M.B.A. and M.S. degree; professional and vendor certifications PMP, PMP-AP, CSM, CISSP, CCSA, and a variety of others including Cisco’s CCNA and Novell’s CNE; Certified Cisco Academy Instructor (CCAI)
Teaching Experience: Designed the Networking Program and each of its courses starting in 1989 with a class in Local Area Networks within the Telecommunications Department, which grew into a Networking curriculum and the basis for an A.S. Degree in Network Engineering in 2005; teaches LAN, Routing, Switching, Network Troubleshooting, and Network Firewalls and Security; serves as the NETX Program Coordinator and is the department’s sole full-time faculty member
“In creating each of the networking courses at Skyline College, I use my industry experience (and those of my bosses and peers) to select and emphasize content which matches workplace needs of employers and technology industry trends. My approach to instruction is straightforward and---according to the students---effective, breaking the expanse of networking technology theory and skills into two categories: what you need to know in the workplace and what’s good to know. I never think of myself as instructor; only a person sharing knowledge with those interested to learn.”
Radni PirehAbdollahKandi
Industry Experience: Technology Coordinator with Compass High School coordinating integration of Local Area Network (LAN) utilizing Cisco Meraki; also serves as technical staff support managing Google Admin console and Apple School Manager and training all staff on software applications and security policies
Education and Certifications: M.S. in Information Technology Management with a Security concentration in Computer Systems Management from Golden Gate University, B.S.E. in Computer Engineering, A.S. in Network Engineering and currently pursuing a Ph.D. in Systems Technology; professional and vendor certifications CCNA, Cisco Meraki APP-DE, Fiber Optic Association, Security Pro, Linux, VMware, Apple School Management, Mac Management Solutions – Jamf, Aperture Satellite Communications, and other related certifications
Teaching Experience: Assistant Professor in the Network Engineering Technologies (NETX) program primarily teaching Linux System Administration (NETX 443) and Structured Wiring and Cabling Systems (NETX 410) while also co-teaching other related NETX courses; NETX program representative for Skyline’s Strategic Partnerships & Workforce Development/Dual Enrollment program; collaborates with NETX Program Director to develop and redesign network engineering labs for routing, switching, server, wireless, network troubleshooting, and network security; responsible for designing and building a network lab environment for Westmoor High School’s Adult School Program
“I enjoy providing support and guidance to my students by personally mentoring and sharing my knowledge and industry experiences. The philosophy and approach that I want to emulate is the one that I have learned from my mentors: ‘Let’s create a learning environment that closely resembles what a student will encounter in the real world’ (Professor Quintin Cortes), and ‘I never think of myself as instructor; only a person sharing knowledge with those interested to learn.’ (Professor Norman Del Prado).”
Peter Dignadice
Industry Experience: Spent the last decade supporting small- and large-sized network infrastructures from small businesses to publicly-traded pharmaceuticals before landing as a network engineer for the city of San Francisco’s Public Utilities Commission (SFPUC) supporting, managing, and maintaining the network infrastructure for the organization’s business and SCADA networks across multiple sites and counties
Education and Certifications: B.A. in Liberal Studies with a concentration in the Humanities and Education from SFSU, as well as an A.S. from Skyline College in Network Engineering; certifications in Cisco and VMWare
Teaching Experience: Assistant Professor at Skyline teaching the CCNA certification course; works closely with SFPUC interns to help usher in the next generation of Network and IT Professionals
“As a product of the NETX program, Skyline and its practical, hands-on approach to learning developed the skills that allow me to support the many different facets of the SFPUC’s infrastructure. As a teacher-practitioner, I share the love for networking that was fostered at Skyline into not just engineering but also mentoring and teaching network engineering fundamentals at Skyline and at the PUC.”
Quintin "Q" Cortes
Industry Experience: Senior IT Analyst for the Emergency Preparedness Division of the Department of Veterans Affairs; received technical training in the US Navy serving as a Naval Air Tactical Controller running computerized shipboard weapons systems, as well as testing and evaluating tactical communications equipment and software
Education and Certifications: Graduate of Skyline’s TCOM Program (and a member of Phi Theta Kappa); professional and vendor certifications CCNA and CompTIA A+
Teaching Experience: Known as “Q” to his students with 30+ years of experience in applying and teaching technology; Skyline instructor since 2000 designing TCOM networking labs and teaching Local Area Networking (Cisco’s CCNA 1) and Microsoft Server Administration courses in addition to preparing students for the CompTIA A+ Certification exams; trained both military and DoD civilian personnel during naval service
“My approach to teaching and training is best illustrated in my design of the labs: let’s create a learning environment that closely resembles what a student will encounter in the real world."
Roger Lohmann
Industry Experience: Currently IT manager for the Department of Veteran Affairs in the Office of Information and Technology and responsible for the troubleshooting, repairing, maintaining and configuring of literally thousands of various hardware systems, operating systems, and software applications – including a number of mission essential and mission critical systems through the years (ask him about the cesium beam clock); began career in electronics and IT in the U.S. Navy in 1984 with a broad range of training on various electronic and computerized communications equipment and systems including specialized training in maintaining, repairing, and operating the Navy’s medium and heavy satellite earth terminals; before employment at the VA, also worked for several years in the civilian sector for Sun Microsystems, Lanier Worldwide Inc., and Boeing North American Services
Education and Certifications: Skyline NETX program graduate with high honors; member of Phi Kappa Theta.
Teaching Experience: Known as “Eric” to his students since starting his career at Skyline in 2000 teaching PC Configuration and Repair and Wireless Local Area Networking; has served as a mentor and instructor to many junior technical personnel throughout his career
“I want my classes to be of benefit to all who take them. Who knows the tree that will grow from the seed that is planted today.”
Dean Scurries
Industry Experience: Currently working for Equinix, the world’s leader in data center colocation and internet connectivity, managing the Telecom Infrastructure team responsible for all the fiber connectivity for 105 Equinix datacenters in US, Mexico, and Canada; previous position with Verizon (formerly MCI/WorldCom) working in telecommunications for almost 40 years - started when regulators were breaking up the Bell System’s monopoly on the telephone industry and worked on analog microwave radios for long-distance phone networks, and then transitioned their networks from analog radios to digital fiber optic systems, having worked on some of the first fiber equipment used in the industry; moved into engineering and designing metro area fiber networks for WorldCom throughout Silicon Valley
Teaching Experience: 20+ years of teaching the Fiber Optics Technology class at Skyline College and is a Fiber Optic Association (FOA) certified instructor; also trains the Operations technicians at Equinix to get their certified fiber optic technicians (CFOT) certifications from the FOA
Leanna Pangan
Education and Certifications: B.S. in Computer Science from San Francisco State University and a growing interest for computer networks led her to Skyline College’s NETX program in Fall 2019; completed the Network Engineering Certificate and passed the CFOT exam through the NETX Fiber Optics course
Teaching Experience: Adjunct Faculty for Skyline’s NETX Dual Enrollment program
“I enjoyed the hands-on training I received throughout the program. Being able to learn the theory and apply those concepts to real-life equipment were great experiences for me. Having been a recent student in the program, I want to make sure I create a positive environment where students are unafraid to ask questions and receive help when needed.”
Primary Contacts
Administrative Inquiries
Program Inquiries
Veteran Affairs Program Advisor
Faculty Information
