Empowering Future Engineers: Chabot College visits NetApp through the Bay Area K-16 Collaborative

NOVEMBER 2024

Last week, the Silicon Valley Leadership Group Foundation was privileged to facilitate an event for 30 engineering and computer science students and staff from Chabot College and NetApp, a global leader in data storage and cloud computing. This visit was part of the Bay Area K-16 Collaborative’s worksite visit series, designed – within a continuum of work-based learning interventions – to bridge the wide gap between local students and the technology companies that power their region.

The day began with an informal networking lunch on NetApp's beautiful 5th-floor terrace overlooking Santana Row in San Jose, offering students a chance to speak 1:1 with supportive NetApp employees in the midst of a true Silicon Valley tech environment. For many, it was their first glimpse into the professional spaces where their careers could one day thrive.

After a well-designed “backstage tour” of NetApp’s campus, which included a visit to the server room—where the magic of data storage and cloud computing happens—and even stepping into a live sales meeting, the students met with NetApp’s internship program manager, Melanie Cruz. Students learned that internships at NetApp offer more than just hands-on experience—they are pathways to full-time roles at the company. One exciting takeaway: Melanie made sure that the students were given QR codes that placed them directly into the NetApp system, helping recruiters track their participation and prepare for interviews starting in the new year.

Lessons From NetApp Leaders: Networking and Overcoming Challenges

But it wasn’t just about internships. NetApp employees like Dominique Garcia, Gabby Landaveri, Angela Teodoro, Edith Bendermacher, and Philomena Bissue - all leaders in NetApp's Employee Business Resource Groups (EBRGs) - shared their personal stories of overcoming challenges and building careers in tech, offering advice for the students' own journeys.

Networking was the central theme of the day, as NetApp and the Bay Area K-16 Collaborative made sure to design an experience in which students had the opportunity to connect one-on-one with NetApp employees. Without any prompting, the value of this was articulated straightaway, with Dominique Garcia encouraging students to reach out to the employees they met: “We want to help you get a leg up on your internship applications!”

On a panel convened for the students in an elegant board room (where, meaningfully, all students had seats at the table), Angela Teodoro reinforced this advice, encouraging students to use LinkedIn as a tool for professional growth and to keep track of their connections. “Start building your own database,” she said.

The impact of the visit was clear, as students shared their takeaways about the importance of building connections and embracing the twists and turns of career navigation. Alex Banuelos Estrada noted, "I learned how important making connections is in not just getting a job but in life in general.” Another student was inspired to learn that “big tech companies... aren’t looking for the most skilled candidates but passionate ones," which helped demystify an often daunting field. As student Kaylan Dellostritto summarized wisely, “it is important to engage with my peers and communicate despite the fears I may feel.”

Strengthening Partnerships: Pathways to Future Collaboration

One of the most impactful discussions during the panel came when students asked the employees about imposter syndrome—the feeling that you don’t belong or aren’t qualified. Angela shared that even after being promoted to Chief of Staff, she still experiences imposter syndrome. “You will always have it,” she said, but encouraged students to build an “evidence folder” of their wins to combat it. Philomena also spoke about how imposter syndrome can be used to fuel growth: “It drives your ambition,” she said. Edith echoed the sentiment, advising students to find mentors who can help them navigate the challenges ahead. 

The NetApp worksite visit was a powerful learning experience, giving students both a glimpse into the high-tech world and the tools, strategies, and connections needed to succeed. The event also helped foster stronger relationships between NetApp and local public colleges and universities, setting the stage for future collaborations. In the coming months, through the Bay Area K-16 Collaborative, participating employers and educators will continue to explore new opportunities for partnership, including advisory boards, guest speakers, co-curricular design, internships, apprenticeship, and career fairs.

NetApp’s commitment to nurturing the next generation of engineers and technologists is evident in their investment in these worksite visits and the mentorship they provide. For students like those from Chabot, these connections and experiences are invaluable as they work toward their futures in tech.