(MARSHALL, Texas) – From an early age, Destiny Stoker knew she was passionate about technology.

“I have been working with computers since I was 12,” Stoker said. “It was always something I was interested in.”

Stoker is a graduate of Texas State Technical College and is a computer network technician for the Waskom Independent School District.

“My favorite part is that I get to interact with so many people, and I love the kids,” Stoker said. “I’m learning new things every day.”

Amy Hertel in TSTC’s Cybersecurity program in Marshall wants women to pursue STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) degrees and careers, even though they are historically male-dominated fields.

“It’s always good to have a different, fresh perspective,” Hertel said. “Having a female in a STEM profession is a new and different way to look at things — new approaches and new ideas. Women are going to come into the workforce and provide something different than a roomful of men would.”

Stoker encourages other women to follow her lead.

“Go for it. You only have one life to live.” she said.

For more information on Texas State Technical College, go to www.tstc.edu.