Coding Her Path
Forward at Carteret

Building Her Future One Line of Code at a Time

From childhood curiosity to career confidence, Brittany’s journey shows how the IT program at Carteret CC helps students turn passion into possibility.

For Brittany Tommasone, her love for technology didn’t begin in a classroom, it began years earlier, sitting beside her mother, who was earning her own IT degree back when Microsoft DOS filled computer screens. Her mom had a project to build a computer from scratch, and instead of working alone, she invited young Brittany to build one alongside her.

That moment didn’t just spark interest, it planted the seed of a lifelong passion.

Years later, after earning an associate degree in Medical Assisting, Brittany felt that same spark calling her back. Her curiosity for technology had never faded, but it took the gentle encouragement of her fiancé to help her see that her interest could become a career. With his support and a deep love for the ever-changing world of technology, Brittany enrolled at Carteret Community College and instantly knew she was exactly where she belonged.

“My curiosity and passion for technology inspired me to study IT, but my fiancé encouraging me was the push I needed.”

Finding Confidence Through Coursework, Challenges, and Support

When Brittany first started the program, she imagined a future in cybersecurity. But as she moved through her classes, something surprising happened she discovered she truly loved networking.

“Networking pushed me outside my comfort zone, but now it’s one of my favorite things to learn.”

Of course, IT wasn’t always easy. Complex concepts, heavy coursework, and balancing her time tested her more than she expected. But she also discovered that she wasn’t expected to navigate any of it alone.

Two instructors made a profound difference in her journey:

Mrs. Bochnovic
Her ACA instructor, the first person at CCC to help her explore career paths and the first to spark her interest in networking.

Mr. Dineley
Her program director and mentor, someone she describes as patient, supportive, and always willing to answer every question.
“He makes it easy to ask questions and always takes the time to make sure I understand. Their support has made a huge difference.”

With their guidance, Brittany not only developed technical skill, she developed confidence.

Discovering Her Purpose & Looking Toward the Future

For Brittany, technology is more than hardware and software. It’s creativity. It’s problem-solving. It’s a place where she can grow endlessly.

“What motivates me most is solving real problems. IT is always changing, and I want to grow with it.”

Her dream job? Cisco. A company she admires for its innovation, commitment to connection, and dedication to continuous learning — values that mirror her own.

And someday, she hopes to create something uniquely hers:
✨ Her own antivirus software
✨ Or even her own operating system
A project built from scratch just like the one she built with her mom years ago.

Advice for Future IT Students & the Quote That Keeps Her Going

Brittany’s advice to future IT students is full of wisdom and heart:

“Don’t rush. Explore every path. Ask all your questions, even the small ones. And take breaks when you need them. It’s challenging, but it’s worth it.”

And on the toughest days, she turns to a quote that keeps her centered and grounded:

“Tread softly, breathe peacefully, laugh hysterically.” — Nelson Mandela

At Carteret Community College, Brittany Tommasone has found more than an IT program.
She has found mentors, confidence, a direction she loves — and a future she’s excited to build, one line of code at a time.

For more information about our Information Technology program contact Patrick Dineley at [email protected]