From NLTCC to Willis Knighton: Dustin Davis's Inspiring Journey
Dustin Davis, a proud alumnus of Northwest Louisiana Technical Community College (NLTCC), has shown incredible resilience and determination in his journey from a career-ending injury to a successful position in Information Technology. Currently serving as a Computer Support Technician I at Willis Knighton North, Dustin has received two prestigious Gold Star awards for his outstanding performance within his first 6 months on the job.
In 2018, Dustin faced a life-changing injury at work that ended his career. With a background that included the United States Marine Corps, construction, oilfield work, and the steel industry, he had to rethink his future. "Once it was obvious that my body could no longer handle manual labor, I made a decision to get an education," Dustin recalls. This decision led him to NLTCC.
Despite undergoing three major surgeries and 14 months of rehabilitation, during which he spent 6 months learning to walk again, he enrolled in Information Technology at NLTCC. "I signed up for two classes—Operating Systems and Work Readiness—and aced both with an A," he shares. Encouraged by this success, he took on more courses, gaining hands-on experience through part-time IT jobs while still a student.
The skills and knowledge Dustin acquired at NLTCC were instrumental in his career advancement. He graduated with Academic Honors, a 4.0 GPA, and several IT certifications, all of which opened doors to new opportunities. "I landed a part-time IT gig and then a 90-day contract IT job with TEKsystems," he says. Though TEKsystems had a massive layoff, Dustin persevered and eventually found his current position.
In August 2023, Dustin applied for a position at Willis Knighton North. After multiple interviews and consistent follow-ups, he finally secured the job at the beginning of 2024. His dedication and hard work were soon recognized with two Gold Star awards within a week. "I was awarded two Gold Stars in one week—mind you, some people have been there for 10-20 years and haven't even gotten one," he proudly notes.
Dustin’s achievements have also brought him unique recognition. Despite his initial reluctance, he accepted an invitation to have his photo featured on a billboard, becoming the first employee in Information Technology at Willis Knighton North to reach this level of recognition.
Reflecting on his journey, Dustin offers valuable advice to current students and recent graduates. "Find out exactly what interests you the most and pursue an entry-level position that caters to it. Be the difference, ask questions, and ignore the negativity," he advises. He also emphasizes the importance of continuous learning and preparation for certifications, urging students to remain driven and never get comfortable or complacent. “Stay hungry and never forget where you come from. I went from being a broken man who literally could not walk and was full of self-doubt to flourishing among my peers against all odds, and despite lacking support. Now, I am making history and being recognized across two cities by one of the most respected hospital systems."
Dustin Davis is an inspiring example of the transformative power of education and unwavering determination. For more information about program offerings and financial aid opportunities available at NLTCC, visit nltcc.edu or call 318.371.3035 to speak to a member of the student services team.