Coleby Ludwig Turns Early Opportunity Into IT Success
At just 18 years old, Coleby Ludwig has already spent nearly three years building his future at Cape Fear Community College.
What began as a dual-enrollment opportunity while he was a student at Hoggard High School has grown into an impressive academic journey that will result in five information technology credentials by the end of 2026.
This May, Coleby earned his IT Diploma. By the end of 2026, he will complete two Associate in Applied Science degrees in IT Networking and IT Systems Administration, along with certificates in Operating Systems Administration and Cybersecurity & Networking.
Coleby has accomplished all of this while maintaining a high GPA and working as an IT intern at his church. The role grew out of years spent volunteering and helping build the church’s technology systems.
“My interest in IT started at church,” he said. “I kind of built all their backend stuff and built their production systems. I started that about eight years ago.”
Support Every Step of the Way
Coleby being recognized for his outstanding academic achievement at CFCC’s annual Student Recognition Ceremony
CFCC’s learning environment provided exactly what he was looking for. It allowed him to build strong relationships with faculty while exploring multiple areas of information technology.
Throughout his time at CFCC, he credits the IT faculty with helping him succeed.
“It’s been excellent,” he said. “The IT department here is one of the best. Even if you’re not an IT person, they are willing to come where you are and help you.”
Beyond the classroom, Coleby has also taken advantage of resources that have helped him prepare for the next stage of his career.
“The Career Center has really supported me this semester,” he said. “It’s been eye-opening. I’ve been here for almost three years now, and I could have used these resources really early on.”
Through the Career Center, Coleby received assistance with résumés, cover letters, and mock interviews, which strengthened his professional skills and confidence.
Maximizing Opportunities
As he progressed through his coursework, Coleby realized many of his classes applied to multiple IT pathways and allowed him to pursue several credentials simultaneously.
Today, Coleby is completing his remaining coursework while continuing to gain hands-on experience through his internship. As he prepares for multiple graduation milestones over the next year, he encourages other students, especially those interested in information technology, to start early and take advantage of the opportunities available at CFCC.
“Definitely do it, and do it at CFCC,” he said. “I would not be where I am without Cape Fear.”
To learn more about CFCC’s Information Technology offerings, visit cfcc.edu/information-technology.
