Nine Penn College information technology students and their instructor, Rick R. Crossen, recently experienced NAViGATE 2025 in Pittsburgh. The annual three-day conference is organized by COMMON, the world’s largest users association for IBM power systems.
Through information sessions and an expo, the Penn College contingent interacted with industry professionals from across the nation who have established themselves in various IT careers. Topics covered included software development techniques, database management workflows, information systems security, emerging AI technologies and automation tools.
“The conference is a great opportunity for students to network with industry professionals and develop new skills needed in their trade,” Crossen said. “I could clearly see that the students left with a renewed sense of confidence in their technical abilities and a deeper understanding of just how important professional networking is in the industry. I’m honored to have attended this conference for the fourth year.”
Accompanying Crossen were:
Game & simulation programming – Catelyn Jones, Grantville (also majoring in software development & information management); Zachary G. Rhodes, Shippensburg (also majoring in software development & information management); and Abbie J. Snyder, Adrian, Georgia.
Information assurance & cyber security – Gavin L. Bowers, Williamsport; and Jackson D. Small, Harrisburg (also majoring in network administration & engineering technology).
Network administration & engineering technology – Diwash Dahal, Harrisburg; Xander M. Jones, Kulpmont; and Gage A. Rotz, Waynesboro.
Software development & information management – Robert L. Parker II, Jersey Shore (also majoring in accounting).
The Penn College crew takes a short break from networking during the recent NAViGATE 2025 Conference in Pittsburgh. From left: Zachary G. Rhodes, Abbie J. Snyder, Robert L. Parker II, Catelyn Jones, instructor Rick R. Crossen, Xander M. Jones, Diwash Dahal, Gavin L. Bowers, Jackson D. Small and Gage A. Rotz.