We took some time to catch up with Rebecca Stetter, currently juggling NOVA's Engineering Technology Career Scholars program and a full-time data center Site Engineer position at Digital Realty after a succesful winter intership there. With her hectic schedule, Rebecca is constantly on the move, but she took some time to answer a few questions that can help High School and NOVA students forge a successful career path in the data center industry.

Rebecca, tell us a little about yourself:

I am an 18-year-old woman in STEM. I started my journey off at the Academies of Loudoun doing Cisco networking classes. That's what sparked my interest in technology. Currently, building a long-term career in engineering and data center operations. I’m currently a Site Engineer I at Digital Realty and a student in NOVA’s Engineering Technology Career Scholars program. I enjoy hands-on technical work and continuous learning. My goal is to grow into more manager opportunities and grow within Digital Realty. 

Why did you come to NOVA for your education?

I came across NOVA at one of the technology career days. I didn't expect that NOVA had opportunities like ETCS for students. I wasn't even sure what to major in. I chose NOVA because it offered a direct, practical pathway into technical careers. The Engineering Technology programs are aligned with real industry needs, and the faculty understand what employers expect. NOVA gave me a free, supportive, and career-focused way to build the skills I need to succeed in high paying field like Data Centers.

Tell us about your experience in the ET Career Scholars program and how it has benefitted you?

The ET Career Scholars program has been one of the most valuable parts of my education. It combines technical coursework with professional development, industry exposure, and a strong support system. The program helped me build confidence, understand workplace expectations, and connect with employers. It also pushed me to grow, not just technically, but as a communicator and a teammate. The cohort system gave me a place to build up my skills and make friends. Every interaction I have with a classmate doesn't feel forced. Together we grew as a community and were able to lift eachother up, we always had someone to talk to and a shoulder to lean on. I've meet some of the best people through this program, I would regret if I never applied.

Why is Data Center Operations important and why should people pursue it as a career?

If you don't have a data center, you don't have the internet at your fingertips. This world is based on tech because everything we rely on like communication, finance, healthcare, government, entertainment runs on digital infrastructure. Behind all of that are techns and engineers keeping systems stable and secure. It’s a career for people who like problem solving, structure, and responsibility. The field is growing fast. There’s a clear path for advancement and it pays very well. I don't know of many other 18-year-olds who make anywhere near than what you can make at a data center. 

What is like working together with many other students in a cohort who are doing the same thing you are?

Being part of a cohort is motivating. You’re surrounded by people who share your goals, understand the challenges, and celebrate the wins with you. We learn from each other, support each other, and push each other to stay focused. It creates a sense of community that makes the journey easier and more enjoyable. It makes everything much more enjoyable when you have friends around you instead of regular classes where nobody talks.

While still in ET Career Scholars, you took on a winter internship at Digital Realty. How did that come about, what did you do in the internship, and what did you learn?

The internship came through a combination of NOVA’s industry connections on Career Connection and my own interest in data center operations. I applied, has several interviews, and was selected for a winter internship for Engineering Operations at Digital Realty. During the internship, I shadowed subject matter experts in HVAC, electrical, fire and life safety, generators, and compliance. I learned how a mission-critical facility functions, how teams coordinate, and how important documentation and procedures are. I learned in depth about technical writing, all the newer equipment like XDMs and CDUs that power the water-cooling systems that are new tech.

The engineering team is the backbone of the data center that keeps it running 24/7. I had a wonderful experience learning with them and am thrilled that I am now part of the full-time team. Everyone ad Digital Realty is welcoming and wants you to succeed. That experience confirmed that this is the field I want to build my career in, and Digital Realty is where I will start.

As an ET Career Scholar at NOVA and Data Center Technician at Digital Realty, how do you balance your time and energy between work and education?

Balancing both takes planning and discipline. It can be really difficult trying to manage 40 hours of work while being a full-time student. I rely on structured schedules, clear priorities, and communication with my Professors, Team lead, and Managers. School and work are complementary, what I learn in class helps me on the job, and what I see on the job reinforces what I’m learning in class. It’s a lot, but it’s worth it.

Tell us about the importance of interpersonal skills in a tech job, both at NOVA and Digital Realty?

Interpersonal skills are just as important as technical skills. In a data center, you’re constantly coordinating with teammates, vendors, and other departments. Clear communication prevents mistakes and keeps operations safe. At NOVA, group projects and cohort work helped me practice those skills. At Digital Realty, they’re essential for staying aligned, solving problems, and maintaining a strong team culture. My time at NOVA is definitely reflected in my work at Digital Realty. People notice you when you are able to communicate clearly and effectively.

What’s the easiest and hardest thing about your career path?

The easiest part is being able to talk and communicate with my team. Everyone here is friendly and wants to help you. It’s never made me nervous to ask for help, in fact, it's encouraged to ask questions and reach out. One of our core values is teamwork and Digital makes sure everyone feels like they are part of the team. The hardest part is balancing everything at once: school, certifications, and a mission-critical job, 4-H, sick horse and family members, and trying to maintain a social life. But the challenge has made me more organized and resilient.

Where do you see yourself in 5-years?

Currently I am interested in a managerial position focused on compliance. I still have a ton I need to learn before I am ready for this position. At Digital Realty, there is so much room for growth. With the company expanding rapidly, positions are constantly open. Your team pushes you towards these and wants to see you grow. I want to focus on making sure all standers are met and learn ways we can increase our green footprint.

What is your advice to HS students who are interested but undecided about pursuing ET Career Scholars?

If you’re curious about engineering, technology, or hands-on problem-solving, this program is a great place to start. You don’t need to have everything figured out you just be willing to learn. The support, structure, and opportunities you get through ET Career Scholars can open doors you didn’t even know existed. I definitely wouldn't be in my position if it weren't for ETCS. It’s free to apply and the program is free AND you get paid. There are no downsides of doing the program at all. I encourage all to apply even if you aren't positive, it can't hurt!

What's your advice for NOVA students who are taking that next step into a tech job?

Networking, networking, networking. This is what ultimately ended up getting me an internship. Sometimes, it's not about what you know, it's about who you know. Before I even started working at Digital Realty, I had reached out and networked with managers and employees. People already knew who I was before I even started working. Go talk to people at networking events, add and talk to people on LinkedIn. How you present yourself and talk will show employers who you are. Be confident in what you’ve learned, and don’t be afraid to ask questions. Employers value curiosity, reliability, and a willingness to grow. Take advantage of internships, certifications and your NOVA classes. Remember that your first role is just the beginning of your career path.

What do you like to do in your spare time (if you have any)? 

I don't have as much spare time as I used to but I've always had a part time job since I was 14 so managing a schedule has been a part of my routine for a while now. My favorite thing to do is retrain racehorses. My horse is an ex-racehorse and she is my pride and joy. She does a bit of every type of riding but mostly eventing. I'm also part of 4-H and Nova Sharpshooters, I compete competitively in shooting and riding. My friend is actively teaching me country swing dancing and that's really fun to learn. Country music isn't my favorite, but the dance is great! Other than that, I browse the web, read some books and watch animation.

Other thoughts? Anything important we missed with the other questions?

I’d just add that programs like ET Career Scholars and partnerships with companies like Digital Realty and Microsoft show how powerful community college pathways can be. They give students real opportunities to build meaningful careers, and I’m grateful to be part of that journey. I wouldn't be where I am without it.

Learn more about ET Career Scholars at NOVA. Applications for the new cohort are available through March 27.