IT grad finds rewards in justice system

‌

Cuong Nguyen ’05 at work at the U.S. Attorney’s Office in Rochester.

For Cuong Nguyen ’05 (information technology), a position with the U.S. Department of Justice is bringing unexpected benefits.

He’s getting an insider’s view of the federal justice system. “It’s very interesting,” he says.

As litigation and information technology support specialist for the U.S. Attorney’s Office in Rochester, Nguyen assists the attorneys and federal agents working on civil and criminal cases. He helps prepare evidence for courtroom presentation using technology. He’s also responsible for keeping the computer network and individual computers operating smoothly.

It’s a big responsibility: Nguyen is the only tech person on the 40-person staff of the Rochester office. He also works closely with three technical support staff members in the larger U.S. Attorney’s Office in Buffalo, collaborating on projects or problems requiring technical expertise.

Born in Vietnam, Nguyen came to the United States 11 years ago, when his parents settled in Rochester. After graduating from RIT, he started as IT administrator with YWCA of Rochester and Monroe County. He joined the U.S. Attorney’s Office in December 2007.

“RIT prepared me for a career,” he says. “The co-op experience helped me get my job.” Cuong completed three co-ops, at BOCES 2 and Electronic Data Systems Corp. in Rochester and at the Oneida Indian Nation near Syracuse.

One aspect of his job that he especially enjoys is the opportunity to learn new skills. He goes for annual training in new computer and courtroom technology at the National Advocacy Center in Columbia, S.C.

He’s also interested in improving his communication and leadership skills and hopes to pursue a master’s degree or advanced certificate in technology or management.

“Working for the federal government is a dream come true personally,” says Nguyen. “I really enjoy working in this field.”