provides.” He says that even though he has achieved success, CompTIA still allows him to continue to learn, be on the leading edge of technology, have a large business network, and provides tools that have proven to be beneficial. “It’s really the people at CompTIA that make this organization so great,” he said. “They are phenomenal. In 25 years, I’ve never come across someone who wasn’t pleasant, easy to be around and always willing to help. It’s truly a testament to the leadership over the years.” LOOK AHEAD Successful people are always looking ahead at what’s next, and Piñeiro is no exception. One of his main goals is to see technology become a core requirement for high school students in the same way that math, science and English already are. He’s been working closely with CompTIA on this effort. “We live in a tech world these days. If you don’t understand it, you’ll be lost,” he said. “Exposure to technology in the public school system needs to be a requirement.” A key indicator that we’re headed in the right direction is the Pathways to Graduation 4+1 Option. In 2015, the New York State Board of Regents approved regulatory amendments to provide assessment pathways to graduation. These regulatory provisions allow students to graduate high school with a 4+1 Regents Diploma where the “+1” option can be CompTIA A+ certification. Piñeiro’s hard work and dedication is helping open doors for the next generation to obtain the necessary skills and flourish in the tech world—ultimately providing them with opportunities for long-term career success. For him, as an employer, husband, father, philanthropist and mentor, that is what it’s all about. “I was fortunate back in the late 70s and early 80s to find my way into this wonderful industry,” he said. “Now, I just want to help give back. I’m going to continue to help provide a means for individuals and families.”
duplicate that pipeline for others. “To get into the tech field, you need skills. I believe the best way to scale this is through the K-12 public school system— and that’s why I’m so involved,” he said. According to Piñeiro, placing a larger emphasis on skills versus a degree coming out of high school or community college is essential. “If students are graduating with these skills, they’ll not only be hired right away, but they’ll have their pick of jobs.” According to Piñeiro, a traditional college degree can still be worthwhile, but there are many paths to a tech career. “Two of my three kids have graduated from college,” he said. “It’s not that I don’t believe in college degrees, it’s just that the fact is you can have a lucrative career in technology without earning a degree in technology. After all, my gateway was the 6-month course I took 38 years ago and I never looked back.” PAY IT FORWARD As an ordained minister, Piñeiro says his faith is a way of life and service to others is key. “I believe that anybody who has achieved any level of success has a social responsibility to pay it forward. You do that by helping others get the skills or whatever it is that they need to help them lead a successful life,” he said. Piñeiro explains how gratifying it is to see a young person or an adult who was once struggling in life without direction eventually excel in a career in technology. “Quite honestly, I don’t need any accolades. Seeing someone transform their life is my biggest motivator,” he said. Providing internships, mentorships, funding or even just pointing someone in the right direction is what it’s all about. Piñeiro says that providing something like this may be a small part of your day, but it could be a life changing moment for someone else. And, he leans on CompTIA to help achieve that goal. “For me, CompTIA is a gem,” Piñeiro said. “Back in the day everybody knew about the A+ exam, but didn’t know about CompTIA. As time moved on, CompTIA become a known entity globally—but still today not everybody truly understands the treasure trove of resources that CompTIA
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CompTIAWorld | FALL 2019
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