Alex Tabony – My Letter of Support for Computer Technologies Program

It is not an exaggeration to say that Computer Technologies Program (CTP) changed my life and perhaps even saved my life.

I was born with a hearing impairment and dyslexia. Through lived experience, I learned about the bias people have toward those of us who operate differently and the assumptions about what we are capable of. As a young person in school, I struggled, but I learned to adapt to my disabilities in order to find success. When computers became available, things really improved for me because they aided learning, communication, and writing.

In the mid-1990’s, I experienced a significant loss of vision. My medical recovery took nearly two years, during which time I was not able to work. Over time, I lost my sense of purpose, focus, and hope for the future. I was not sure how I would be able to work again.

Through happenstance, I ended up at the California Department of Rehabilitation (DOR). Eventually, my DOR counselor suggested two options for me. To attend a training program to learn how to stock vending machines in government buildings, or to go to CTP and find out what they have to offer. He said, “It is up to you, but I recommend that you go to CTP first and see if that is something you want to try.”
I still remember the day I first went to CTP like it was yesterday. I met with David Landis and Joe Quinn. They gave me a few tests to take and interviewed me. The logic tests were by far the most mentally taxing activities I’ve had done in the prior two years, and they were so exciting and fun to take – I could feel my brain wake up. David and Joe were exceptionally kind and caring. It was clear to me that this was the right place for me.

CTP was difficult for me because I needed to learn new ways to work to accommodate my vision loss. The CTP staff was always there and very supportive, while maintaining high professional standards. After sitting at home for two years, I really needed that guidance and feedback to get on track with workplace expectations.

After I graduated, I realized I was in love with CTP and what it can do for someone seeking help to make progress in their life. I wanted to be like the staff who had helped me and to help others. I was hired into a part-time coordination position, developed into CTP’s instruction and operational staff, and became the Director in 2014.

I could not be prouder of what CTP is today. CTP’s programs and the staff that conducts them are truly something special.

Please join me in supporting CTP.
–Alex Tabony Executive Director