Damone Harris

Associate of Applied Science in Information Technology Support Specialist

Damone Harris was born in Indianapolis, Indiana and moved around a lot during his childhood to support father’s naval career. His family returned to the Chicago area and he graduated from high school there. Harris then attended Indiana University – Purdue University Indianapolis where he earned a bachelor of applied science degree in business administration and management. He was recruited to work at Motorola and later Electrolux. He worked for a number of years in these positions before transitioning to management in the fast food industry. In 2008 he was laid off due to conditions of the economic downturn. After trying to find work in his hometown for more than a year, Harris decided it was time for a change.

Harris moved to the Yakima Valley in 2010 and with the support from YVC’s dislocated worker program he enrolled with plans to pursue a new degree in information technology. He quickly found success in YVC’s program and credits instructors like Mike Batali, Stefan Apperson, David Dalton, and Audrey Wedin. “The way the instructors structured the program at YVC was excellent. The classes are really good and there are several tools to help students succeed,” stated Damone Harris. He also found additional support by participating in two of YVC’s student clubs, information technology and business.

In 2012 he graduated with an associate of applied science degree in information technology support specialist. Harris accepted a position with McDonald’s and oversees all programming and technical training at 13 restaurants within Yakima and Kittitas counties. He is also pursuing a master’s degree in information technology computer applications and administrative management at Central Washington University. He will graduate in June 2016.