Matthew Bradley, an Information Technology Instructor with Columbus City Schools, has built a career fueled by his lifelong passion for technology. His growth, from working in cellular repair to shaping the next generation of I.T. professionals, has been driven by curiosity, strong connections, and the support of key partners like PSI.
“I’ve always been fascinated with how things work,” says Bradley. “As a kid, I would take things apart just to see the mechanics behind them.” This hands-on curiosity led him into the tech world, where he first worked as a technician for a Nextel reseller. From there, he quickly moved up the ranks, eventually overseeing multiple repair centers. But a chance conversation with a friend about working in I.T. led Bradley in a new direction.
Thriving Under Pressure
Starting on the service desk of a fast-paced I.T. department, Bradley learned to thrive under pressure. “Every day was a new challenge, and it was a great way to develop the skills I needed to grow in the field,” he reflects. Those skills eventually opened doors for him at Columbus City Schools, where he transitioned into field tech work and later into his current teaching role. Now, Bradley focuses on passing his knowledge along to students, preparing them for real-world success in an evolving industry.
Bradley’s goal for the Columbus City Schools I.T. program is simple but impactful: to equip students with practical, hands-on experience that translates directly to the workforce. “We’re laying the foundation for students to graduate with marketable skills,” Bradley says. “They’ll have the tools they need to secure jobs right out of high school, or the groundwork to further their education in I.T. down the road.”
Facing Set Backs
Of course, Bradley’s journey hasn’t been without its challenges. After suffering a serious back injury that required surgery, he faced a difficult six-month recovery. During that time, PSI played a key role in helping him stay focused on his professional goals. “Monty Ragland [PSI President & CEO] was a huge support during my recovery,” Bradley shares. “He really motivated me to stay positive and assured me that I could come back stronger.”
PSI’s focuses on providing holistic support to consultant partners to help them thrive by creating opportunities for growth and professional development. For Bradley, working with PSI opened doors that helped him expand his career in the education sector. “PSI gave me the opportunity, and I ran with it,” he says. “They’ve been a crucial part of my journey.”
Creating Meaningful Learning Experiences
As Bradley continues to develop the I.T. program at Columbus City Schools, he’s focused on creating meaningful learning experiences for his students. And for other consultants and partners working with educational institutions, his advice is simple: “Make connections, do quality work, and hone your skills.” With PSI backing him, Bradley is helping shape the future of I.T. education in Central Ohio, giving students the tools they need to succeed in a rapidly changing world.