CANFIELD, Ohio – The Mahoning County Career & Technical Center announced a historic achievement in its Computer Networking & Cybersecurity program.
For the first time in school history, four students have successfully earned the CompTIA A+ certification, and one student has passed the CompTIA ITF+ certification, demonstrating technical knowledge and career readiness.
The students who earned their CompTIA A+ certification are seniors Henry Grenzig and Ethan Wescovich and juniors Cooper Terziu and Ben Weber. Senior Nick Diaz earned his CompTIA ITF+ certification.
The CompTIA A+ certification is a globally recognized credential, verifying a technician’s ability to troubleshoot and resolve issues related to networking, mobile devices, operating systems and security. It is widely regarded as the industry standard for entry-level IT professionals. The ITF+ certification serves as an introduction to basic IT knowledge and skills, covering foundational topics such as databases, infrastructure and software development.
“These certifications are typically pursued by adult learners or professionals already in the IT field,” said John Zehentbauer, MCCTC superintendent. “To see high school students achieve this level of success is nothing short of extraordinary. They are not only excelling academically – they are proving they’re ready to compete in today’s high-tech job market.”
Alex Benson, Computer Networking & Cybersecurity program instructor at MCCTC, said the certifications are a “huge step” for both the students and the program. “They’re proving that high school students can meet – and exceed – professional standards in the IT industry.”
Pictured at top: At top, from left, are Ben Weber and Cooper Terizu. At bottom, from left, are Nick Diaz, Henry Grenzig and Ethan Wescovich.