Meet Our Instructors

Have you ever thought for a moment about how connected you are to the world and the people in it? If you need to know something, that answer is just a Google search away. Want a pizza? You can find a place and an online review in seconds.

What makes all this possible? The world’s largest network, the Internet. Computer networks and how they work fascinate me. I love building networks for people to help them with their businesses, their jobs, communication, and enjoyment.

My students are currently involved in:
 

  •  A+ Certification/IT Fundamentals Certification/Microsoft Technology Associate Certifications
  • Building computers
  • Building computer networks
  • Installing servers
  • Installing OS
  • Mobile Devices
  • Printing
  • Virtualization
  • Installing structured cabling
  • Network Permissions
  • Security
  • Troubleshooting networks
  • Project-based learning
  • Teamwork and problem solving
  • Project management

 Professional Credentials
 

  • Master of Business Administration – Western Michigan University
  • Bachelor of Business Administration – Western Michigan University
  • Microsoft Certified Systems Engineer
  • Teacher Leadership Academy
  • Michigan Professional Teaching Certificate
  • Michigan Vocational Authorization      
  • Cisco Network Academy Instructor/Comptia Academy

Business/Industry Experience
 

  • Independent Contractor work designing, building, and troubleshooting networks for small business
  • Taught Microsoft Networking classes for M-TECH
  • Worked with WMU Accounting and Finance professors on research projects

Personal

I enjoy spending time with my family. My wife and I have 3 kids and a dog. We live in Rockford and like going to parks, concerts, and sporting events. I also like to play golf and will always be a fan of the Detroit Lions and the Michigan State Spartans. I gain personal satisfaction out of helping young people find and develop their talents.

Any Questions? Please e-mail me at: [email protected]

Joe Lake

Instructor
Phone: 616-802-3617

Professional Organizations
 

  • CISCO Networking Academy Instructor

Industry Experience/Background
 

  • Zeeland Public Schools - Computer Technician
  • Central Michigan University – Computer Technician
  • Design Craftsmen – Computer Technician/Help Desk
  • Holland Public Schools – Business/Technology Education Teacher

Education
 

  • Central Michigan University
  • Bachelor of Science in Business Education
  • Masters in Learning, Design, and Technology

Jon Rilley

Instructor
Phone: 616-802-3620

Industry Experience / Background
 

  • ADAC Plastics – IT Intern - 4 years
  • Iserv Internet – Service Technician – 7 years
  • West Michigan Academy of Environmental Science – Teacher and Technology Director – 8 years

Education
 

  • Aquinas College Bachelor’s degree in Computer Information System
  • Aquinas College Master’s in Education

Michael Pepper

Instructor
Phone: 616-802-3615

Professional Credentials/Education:

  • Bachelor of Science, Social Studies Education - Indiana Wesleyan University
  • NCCT Certified Postsecondary Instructor
  • United States Navy Master Training Specialist
  • United Services Military Apprenticeship Program
    • Instructor
    • Computer Operator
  • CompTIA Security+, CompTIA A+

Business/Industry Experience

  • Current United States Navy Reserve Information Systems Technician Chief
  • United States Navy Active Duty, Information Systems Technician (11 years)
    • Systems Security Analyst, Systems Administrator, Cyber Security Manager, Communications Security Instructor, IT Systems Security Manager, Helpdesk Supervisor
  • Field Services Helpdesk Technician, Indiana Wesleyan University
  • Paraprofessional and Summer Academy Teacher, Grand River Preparatory High School

Personal

I was born and raised here in Grand Rapids and graduated from The Potter’s House High School. I recently moved back to Grand Rapids after spending eleven years traveling all over the world with the US Navy. I live in Creston Heights and enjoy travel, baking sourdough, collecting books, and volunteering with community organizations. My role here is to help all students access success in the amazing programs that KCTC has to offer, and I love every minute of it!


Kristina Vandermeer

Career Technical Specialist