EASTERN Computer Network Administration Alumnus Spotlight: Ian Carder

Eastern Center for Arts and Technology (EASTERN) 1998 Computer Network Administration/Jenkintown High School graduate, Ian Carder, is Upper Moreland School District’s IT Coordinator.  He turned his interest in computers into a successful career in the field, while gaining a head start at EASTERN.

Carder enjoyed working with his family’s Apple Macintosh while growing up.  He went so far as to purchase an external hard drive to boot from so he wouldn't cause any computer issues for the rest of his family.  At Jenkintown High School, he took all the computer classes that were available, but was still very interested in learning more.  He had some friends who enrolled in EASTERN’s Commercial Art program, so he decided to research the school and its offerings.  Ultimately, he found Computer Network Administration to be a perfect fit.

During his second year at EASTERN, he was hired as an Intern for EASTERN’s Technology Management Systems department. Soon after, Upper Moreland School District was looking for a computer technician and interviewed students from the Computer Network Administration program.  He secured the position and worked for Upper Moreland School District while going to college.  When the Upper Moreland Network Administrator left in 2005, Carder was promoted into that position.  In April of 2011, he was promoted, again, to IT Coordinator.

In his current position, he is involved in every aspect involving the IT Department.  Along with supervising the department, he coordinates new projects and assists with the day-to-day operations of the network, servers, and applications.  Recently, Carder hired a 2009 EASTERN graduate, Jim Bishop, who will begin to take on many of the network and server roles.

“If you're interested in how computer networks are designed, large or small, EASTERN’s Computer Network Administration is the program for you,” said Carder.  “You're going to be exposed to more networking and server equipment, theory and practical experience than you'll likely find anywhere until you're working in the field.  If you're already in the program, take full advantage of the opportunity to get a head start on everyone else your age who is considering the field.”

EASTERN’s Computer Network Administration  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.