Student Success Profile: Austin Schuoler
Business Technology Management Student Turns Career Growth into New Opportunities
For Austin Schuoler, returning to school was more than earning another credential, it was about taking the next step in his technology career.
While working as a Security Operations Center Analyst at Amazon, Austin reached a point where he felt his career growth had stalled. He knew he wanted to expand his skills but wasn’t initially sure which direction to take. When he discovered North Seattle College’s Business Technology Management (BTM) program, he found a program that connected his interests in technology, data, and business.
“The BTM program felt like the perfect fit for where I was at the time, an exciting next chapter that reignited my passion for technology and data,” Austin says.
That decision helped Austin build practical skills that he continues to use in his career. Today, he works as a Lead Security Officer at SpaceX, while continuing to pursue his long-term goal of becoming a Security Engineer.
Turning Data into Practical Solutions
Austin says the hands-on nature of the BTM program gave him a strong foundation that he relies on in his current role.
Through the program, he learned how to take raw data and transform it into clear, impactful visuals for stakeholder meetings. He also developed skills in creating team dashboards and gained an introduction to ArcGIS, a geographic information system that he now uses regularly in his work.
“These skills have been incredibly helpful since I started at SpaceX,” Austin says.
For Austin, the value of BTM goes beyond learning individual software programs. The program helped him develop the ability to use technology and data to solve real-world problems; skills that can be applied across a variety of industries and career paths.
Building Skills for What's Next
Austin’s experience is an example of how BTM can help students build on their existing experience while preparing for new professional opportunities.
Whether students are looking to advance in their current field, transition into a technology-focused career, or strengthen their business and technical skills, Austin encourages them to stay engaged with what they are learning and look for ways to apply those skills outside the classroom.
“No matter what field you end up in, the skills you gain from this program will always have real value,” Austin says. “Stay passionate about what you’re learning, and don’t hesitate to apply those skills to actual challenges you face.”
For Austin, that approach has helped turn his education into practical experience and opened the door to new opportunities in technology and security.
Explore BTM Fall 2026 Courses
Learn more about the Business Technology Management program and explore Fall 2026 courses.
The BTM program at NSC combines business knowledge with technology and data skills to help students prepare for today’s evolving workplace.