MEDIA, PA — Ayisha Barrie, a Delaware County Community College student from Secane, has earned a $5,000 Lockheed Martin Scholarship and a full-time job offer with the company through its Software Associate Degree Program (SWAP). Barrie, who is dual majoring in Cloud Computing and Cybersecurity, has also secured a spot in SWAP, a three-year program designed to develop early-career professionals in software and cyber-related fields.
The SWAP program gives students on-the-job training and streamlines the clearance process, preparing them for full-time roles upon graduation. Barrie’s recognition reflects her perseverance and commitment to excelling in high-demand technical fields.
Originally from Sierra Leone and raised in Guinea before moving to the U.S., Barrie is a first-generation college student and graduate of Academy Park High School. Her road to success was not without challenges. While balancing full-time night shifts and raising her two young children, she struggled to find her footing in college. Despite these obstacles, Barrie decided to change her approach by building connections and utilizing campus resources.
Barrie credits DCCC’s Office of First-Generation Student Success, Student Employment and Co-op Services, and the Computer Science program for helping her turn her education into opportunities. An IT internship at Independence Mission Schools, arranged through the Student Employment Office, was key in building her skills and confidence for the next steps in her career.
At DCCC, Barrie also thrived as a student leader. She serves as vice president of the Multicultural Club, is active in the Muslim Student Association, and founded the Women’s Soccer Club. Fluent in several languages, her future aspirations include becoming a software engineering programmer and pursuing a Ph.D.
“No matter how hard it is, never give up,” Barrie said. “Failure is part of success. One day you are going to succeed.”
Barrie’s dual cloud computing and cybersecurity degrees exemplify the forward-looking technical training offered by DCCC. The programs prepare students for careers in roles like cloud administrator, cybersecurity specialist, and DevOps professional. Certificates and tailored curriculum tracks give learners added flexibility to align their education with their career goals.
Barrie’s achievement underscores the value of determination and a supportive learning environment. Now, as she prepares for her future with Lockheed Martin, Barrie is well on her way to fulfilling her dreams in the tech industry.
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