Warriors Who Tech

by Christopher Correa

An education from Stanislaus State is more than just a diploma for graduating Warriors. Garrett Snelling, Brett Allen, Roxanne Finks and Cheyenne Rutherford are Stan State alumni who are using their educational backgrounds in technology to make positive impacts in their communities.

Garrett Snelling, who graduated from Stan State with a degree in computer information systems in 2013, founded the Modesto-based IT support company Circuit Saviors. The company helps employers utilize remote workers with VoIP (voice over internet protocol) technology, productivity monitoring and security methods among other technologies.

One of the big projects that Circuit Saviors has been working on is assisting the homeless, as well as housing agencies supporting community members who may be struggling.

“We make a difference by supporting small businesses so that they can grow and help their communities,” Snelling said.

Brent Allen, a 2009 Stan State business administration graduate, has tackled a similar project while working as a senior manager at Foster Farms.

During the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, Allen had to adapt and become flexible with online platforms including Zoom and Microsoft Teams. While adapting to these platforms was essential for his job, his team at Foster Farms made sure those tools were used for something greater, including the promotion of their human trafficking awareness campaign called the Set Free Movement. Getting himself and his team accustomed to new online platforms was essential in communicating and spreading the word about this fundraiser, so the biggest impact possible could be made.

Adapting to circumstances and solving problems is also something that Cheyenne Rutherford looks forward to.

Rutherford graduated from Stan State with a degree in accounting and finance in 2020 and is now a cost accounting supervisor at Foster Farms. She believes there is joy to be found in learning and challenging herself, especially when it comes to the technological aspects of her job.

“Accounting hasn’t always been easy for me, but it is something I enjoy. Every day I am learning new things at work and it keeps it exciting,” Rutherford said.

Rutherford explained that she tries to inspire those who are interested in the math and science fields.

“I like to make a personal, positive impact on people,” Rutherford said. “Something I really enjoy is the opportunity to mentor and give advice to those navigating college and career choices, figuring out degree plans and financial aid. I do this quite often and have helped many people, since I had to figure it all out myself as a first-generation student.”

Rutherford’s colleague, Roxanne Finks, shared similar sentiments when discussing her job as an IT Service Center manager. At Foster Farms, especially when many operations shifted to remote settings, tech issues can always arise. Helping peers become better accustomed to new online platforms, software, and other technologies is something that Finks is always enthusiastic about.

Finks, who graduated from Stan State with a degree in computer information systems in 2013, also expressed her desire to mentor individuals in the community about the world of technology, all while continuing to learn herself.

“I’d love to learn more about automation and find ways to implement solutions for my team. I’d love to grow and develop my management skills to run effective and efficient teams. I want to teach, mentor and coach more people about the technology world,” Finks said.

Finks encourages everyone to strive to learn more in their respective professions.

“If you aren’t learning, you aren’t growing.”

Snelling agrees with Finks that this mindset is necessary, especially when it comes to working in tech where the field is constantly evolving. A focus on innovation also provides opportunities for those working in the tech field to make a difference in Central Valley communities.

“What excites me is that new things are always on the horizon.”