Benjamin Prather

Associate of Applied Science in Network Administration

Associate of Applied Science in Information Technology General

Benjamin Prather grew up in Selah, Washington. During his high school years he joined Job Corps and earned his GED. In 1999 he enlisted in the United States Navy and was stationed at the Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam adjacent to Honolulu, Hawaii. Prather, who had an interest in computers from a young age, served for five years as a submarine sonar technician. It was an ideal fit.  After being discharged in 2004, he spent several years traveling across the United States and working different jobs. He wanted to find a career that included his love of computers so he returned to the Yakima Valley and enrolled at YVC. He began taking classes with the goal of earning an associate of applied science degree in information technology. Faced with the challenges of a rigorous curriculum, Prather opted to go back to the workforce. After working as a security guard for several years, he reenrolled at YVC with the goal of finishing his degree.

“YVC has a great information technology program,” stated Prather. “I’ve really enjoyed the instructors. There is always someone around to help you take the next step,” he continued. Prather excelled in his coursework and graduated in June with two degrees: an associate of applied science degree in network administration and an associate of applied science degree in information technology general. He is interested in continuing his education and has applied for admission to YVC’s new bachelor of applied science degree in information technology networking – system administration which will begin offering courses in the fall.