OFTC Student Michael Helms Builds Skills for Cybersecurity Career

After taking a coding class in high school, Michael Helms developed an interest in cybersecurity. As he began troubleshooting and fixing common PC issues, his curiosity — and passion for problem-solving — continued to grow.

“The feeling you get when you solve something through work and research is almost incomparable,” Helms said. “That’s a major reason I chose to further my education in cybersecurity.”

Choosing OFTC

While exploring higher education options, Oconee Fall Line Technical College’s (OFTC) cybersecurity program caught his attention.

“OFTC offered flexible schedules,” Helms said. “The fully online classes allowed me to balance work and school, and it felt like the perfect fit.”

The online format proved effective for Helms, while still providing hands-on learning opportunities that have been integral to his development.

“Even though I am learning online, my classes include labs that provide the skills needed to succeed in this career,” he said. “Many are designed to mimic real-world problem-solving situations, similar to working with the actual equipment.”

“OFTC is affordable and accessible, and the hands-on training equips students with the knowledge and skills to enter the workforce feeling confident and prepared,” he added.

Beyond the classroom, support from OFTC faculty and staff made a lasting impact on Helms’ experience.

“My advisor is excellent and very knowledgeable in this field,” Helms said. “Through his support, I was connected to job opportunities before I even graduated.”

“I want new students to know that the faculty and staff at OFTC truly care,” he added. “They are kind, patient and willing to work with you.”

Helms also encourages prospective students to take time when choosing their path.

“Always explore your options and don’t make decisions based purely on emotion,” Helms said. “If you’re unsure about your path or feel stuck, try something different. Meet new people and step outside your comfort zone. OFTC has a place for many students, but it may not be the right fit for everyone—and that’s OK. We’re all different. Keep pushing, keep striving and remember to breathe.”

Career Connections

That support led Helms to an opportunity with OFTC’s Information Technology Department after his advisor and instructor, Brandon McNeal, encouraged him to explore on-campus employment.

After a few months, he was offered a part-time position as a help desk technician.

“OFTC specializes in getting students into the workforce quickly and efficiently,” Helms said. “I’ve experienced that firsthand, having worked two jobs I obtained through my advisor before graduating.”

“I would not have made it this far without the help and care of my advisor,” he said. “He played a major role in helping me gain real-world experience beyond the classroom.”

“Everyone has been incredibly kind to me, and that has only fueled my motivation to help others when they run into issues with their technology,” he added. “It’s an honor to be working at OFTC.”

A Bright Future

Helms is expected to graduate with an associate of applied science degree in cybersecurity this May. While his immediate goal is to secure full-time employment, he is already considering his next steps.

“I’m starting to consider something known as computer forensics,” he said. “It’s the cyber equivalent of forensics and would allow me to collect, preserve and analyze digital evidence for use in legal proceedings.”

While pursuing this path would require additional education, Helms said he is keeping his options open.

No matter where his career leads, he said he is confident in the foundation he has built at OFTC.

“This program has given me a strong foundation to build on as I work toward my goals,” Helms said. “Whether I continue in cybersecurity or pursue something like computer forensics, I feel confident in my abilities because of my experience at OFTC.”

For more information about OFTC’s cybersecurity program, visit OFTC.edu.