When Champlain College Online (CCO) student Jackson Ku attended the AT&T Employees Group Conference this August, his enthusiasm for learning was unmistakable. After a presentation, he proudly displayed his phone with his Canvas dashboard, proof that he was actively managing coursework for his 4th master’s degree.
While many view one graduate degree as a capstone achievement, Jackson sees education as a continuous journey. Having secured his Project Management Professional (PMP) certification in parallel with his studies, he exemplifies what it means to turn curiosity into career growth. This is his story.
Taking the Lead: A Defining Career Moment
For Jackson, the journey began with a phone call that changed everything. “My colleague, Debbie, was retiring after 40 years and asked me to lead a critical security task force,” he recalled. “She told me, ‘You’re the right person to lead—you have a can-do attitude and you’re a bridge builder.’”
The honor came with a dose of self-doubt. Jackson found himself grappling with imposter syndrome as he stepped into the leadership role. Yet, that challenge became the spark that motivated him to strengthen his expertise and build the confidence needed to lead effectively.
Finding the Online Cybersecurity Program
That pivotal conversation inspired Jackson to enroll in the Cybersecurity Certificate program at Champlain College Online.
“Within the first week, I knew I’d made the right choice,” he said. “The program’s structure—weekly discussions, hands-on labs, and the flexibility to learn on my own time—fit perfectly into my life as a working professional.”
Within the first week, I knew I’d made the right choice”
-Jason Ku, Champlain College Online Alum
The coursework had an immediate impact. Jackson successfully passed the Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP) exam before even finishing the program, a testament to how effectively CCO’s curriculum translates into real-world skills.
Earning a Master’s Degree While Working Full-Time
With newfound momentum, Jackson transitioned directly into the Master’s in Information Security program at CCO.
During this time, a new professional opportunity emerged, joining AT&T’s network cloud design team. He applied his growing expertise to his role and pursued the Certified Cloud Security Professional (CCSP) credential to deepen his specialization.
After two years of dedicated study, Jackson proudly walked across the stage to receive his third master’s degree (his first from CCO) at age 50. “That moment meant everything,” he shared. “It was a symbol of perseverance and purpose.”
Continuing the Climb With truED® Support
After a short break, Jackson was once again called to lead, this time, on an initiative to secure his organization’s Application Programming Interfaces (APIs). Faced with another unfamiliar challenge, he turned once again to CCO.
Thanks to AT&T’s tuition assistance and CCO’s truED® alliance, Jackson seamlessly enrolled in the MS in Software Engineering and Project Management program.
“It was an easy decision,” he said. “I knew from experience that CCO’s programs deliver immediate, applicable value.”
Applying Learning in Real Time
What Jackson appreciates most about his CCO experience is how directly it applies to his current work.
“Everything I learn in class connects to what I do every day on the API Security Task Force,” he explained. “It’s made me a more effective leader and a more confident problem-solver.”
He’s now on track to complete his fourth master’s degree, and his second from Champlain College Online by May 2026. Looking ahead, he’s already planning to attend the 2026 commencement ceremony and participate in the hooding ceremony once again.
“My journey at Champlain has taught me that with the right support and a genuine passion for learning, every challenge becomes an opportunity for growth.”
Career Growth Lessons for Working Professionals
Jackson’s story demonstrates that success isn’t about stopping at one milestone; it’s about continuing to evolve. For working professionals, his journey offers powerful takeaways:
Skills and Insights for Career Growth
Stay Curious: Continuous learning keeps your skills relevant in a changing industry
Invest in Yourself: Advanced education is more than a credential; it’s a catalyst for confidence and leadership
Apply What You Learn: Choose programs that integrate theory with real-world application
Leverage Employer Benefits: Partnerships like CCO’s truED® program make ongoing education accessible and affordable
A Future-Proof Career: The Expanding Field of Information Security
Information security continues to be a high-growth, high-impact field. In 2024, Information Security Managers earned a median salary of $171,205 (Source: Lightcast, 2024), underscoring the strong demand for leaders who can protect data and manage cyber risk. It’s a career that blends technical expertise with strategic leadership—offering both stability and upward mobility. Curious? See the full report here.
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