Here are the people you'll be glad are working for you

In addition to the many fine instructors from whom you will take classes, these individuals will be with you to help you through the journey

Nicole Linscheid / Business Development Manager

I came to Crescent Career Center because I truly feel as if education can come in all shapes and sizes. Helping individuals achieve their short and long-term goals is truly a passion of mine. Being a part of an organization that combines modern technology and education allows me to help students reach those goals.

Ciara Venne / Program Director

I find an immense amount of joy in working with students, something that I have done since 2016 in a variety of different educational roles. Building a relationship with someone, finding out what goals they have, and then helping them find success in those goals is one of my greatest passions. I am thrilled to be a part of a company where I can meet new learners who are looking to continue their educational careers and help put them on the path towards completing their goals!

Martez J. Porter/ On-The-Job Training Instructor

Preparing young adults to achieve their goals in the IT field drove Martez to join Crescent Career Center. As an On-The-Job Training instructor, Martez helps give practical experience working in the IT field to those looking for a new career. He specifically trains on the CompTIA suite of technical certifications, reviewing curriculum, and creating lesson plans and classes for students.

Martez believes in the mission of Crescent Career Center, providing a world of possibilities to his students. He loves watching them move through professional development, education, technical training, and career placement.

Growing up in Minneapolis and now living in Apple Valley, Martez likes to spend his free time landscaping, hitting the gym, and building home networks.

Megan Philipsek / Operations Coordinator

Michael “Mike” McRae / On-The-Job Training Director

Mike McRae is the On-the-Job Training Director at Crescent Career Center, where he leverages his award-winning IT expertise to guide students in mastering real-world IT systems. With a rich background in help desk support, system administration, and project engineering, Mike has built a comprehensive knowledge base that he now shares with the next generation of IT professionals.

Known for his love of problem-solving, Mike excels at simplifying complex IT tasks, whether it's installing and deploying servers, setting up workstations, or managing Office 365 migrations. At Crescent Career Center, he focuses on providing students with hands-on experience, preparing them to excel in their future careers. His favorite tools, like VMware, remain integral to his training sessions, ensuring students are well-versed in industry-standard technology.

Mike enjoys camping, horseback riding, and exploring nature with his family outside of work. He treasures spending time with his wife and three adult children, often taking nature walks at state parks or riding along the Cascade River.

Lisa Loken / Owner and CEO

Being a female leader in the IT world showed me the true, limitless potential of this industry. To be a core resource in someone's professional development is so special to experience and fuels a passion that you want to carry out forever. Crescent Career Center is the beginning of your journey of success, it is up to you to achieve it.

Traci Leffner / President

As President at Crescent Career Center, Traci Leffner is committed to delivering the best IT learning experience possible. She is intrigued by all the goodness technology provides and wants every learner to understand what can be achieved with appropriate knowledge. She and her team are on a mission to minimize the fears and frustrations that often accompany IT-related learning and careers. They develop trust and long-lasting partnerships that are solid enough to carry them safely through any challenges that might arise.