Two years after retiring from the military in 1996 as an Aviation Electrician, Nancy realized that a career change required a degree. She began a search for a school offering fast-paced degree programs. Her search led to SJVC.
Once in the program, word got around that Nancy was always helping other students in computer software applications and math. When she graduated, SJVC offered her a part-time job as an instructor in Business Administration. Then, as she says, “before the ink could dry,” they made her full time. At that time, SJVC had no internet for the school; the instructors would fight over the use of the one lab with computers that had CDROMs and floppy disks.
Technology was about to change in a big way and Nancy Lyles was in the right place at the right time. In 2008 she began assisting the IT department at a newly established campus. In 2010 she became an Online Technology Coach, training instructors to teach and develop their courses online. For the next 25 years, Nancy kept learning the technology so she could teach/assist students and the SJVC staff itself. Today she has been honored with a Perry Service Legacy Award to recognize and celebrate the exceptional dedication and contributions she made to the technological side of SJVC well into the 21st century.
How do you feel about this moment in time?
I feel old! I had no idea I would be here this long. I’ve seen so many people come and go. I’ve watched how the school changed, always ready to adapt and improve by embracing changes in technologies and social needs.
What is it about SJVC that kept you there all those years?
I think the job really worked for me. The day-to-day work was interesting, first of all. I felt I had a purpose, having gone from protecting my country to making a difference in student’s lives. My schedule was perfect. I was always able to pick up my son from school and deal with my own health issues and such. The community was great. We instructors stuck together; the staff was really good and the company was very supportive.
What do you mean by supportive?
For example, in 2001 I was diagnosed with breast cancer and the college really stepped up to the plate. At that time four others had been diagnosed with a form of cancer. The news spread and the staff and faculty began to host fund raisers to help those of us who needed it. The campus director at that time assisted in the initiation of the Employee Support Fund which we still have today. That’s why I feel the college is always willing to help and support the employees.
What was your greatest personal accomplishment while working at SJVC?
Because of the support and flexible scheduling I was able to continue my education and earn my master’s degree in business administration with a financial concentration.
When you look back, what is one word – or words – that come to mind when you think about the experience you’ve had?
When I look back…I’d say I was always learning…and it was the most enjoyable experience…
Are you involved in teaching AI?
No. I’m not involved…yet. But it’s here. I can say I did participate in the move and development of the first stage of the technology age.
You most certainly were an important part of it! Congratulations on such a long and successful career and being honored with the Perry Award.
Thank you.