New Executive Director Named at Center of Excellence for Information and Computing Technology

Bellevue College has named Brianna Rockenstire as the new Executive Director of the Center of Excellence for Information and Computing Technology. Rockenstire will work to create opportunities for Information Technology students and industry partners across the state.

“Brianna brings a tremendous background in grants management, knowledge of the information technology sector, and employer relationships,” said Albert Lewis, Jr., Vice President of Economic & Workforce Development. “In many ways, her previous role aligned directly with the knowledge, skills, and ability needed for this one.”

Rockenstire’s experience in higher education includes both external and student-facing work. She’s created strategic engagement plans for companies in the technology and engineering fields, facilitated internship opportunities for IT students, increased awareness of Bachelor of Applied Science (BAS) degrees, and managed scholarship programs.

“Brianna brings a fresh perspective which will allow her to expand the center’s work to become a true showcase for SBCTC schools and tech sector employers,” said Lewis.

In her first year, Rockenstire will identify strategic partnerships and opportunities with major IT sector employers. She’ll also coordinate with the 34 other SBCTC colleges in the state to ensure curriculum and student opportunities align with industry needs.

Rockenstire comes to BC from the NSF-funded AppConnect NW. There, she built new tech industry partnerships on behalf of software and application development BAS programs at seven community and technical colleges in the greater Seattle area. Rockenstire worked closely with faculty leadership to connect students to professional opportunities and align curriculum with industry demand.

“I’m looking forward to getting to know the faculty and staff around the college, and becoming a part of the BC community,” said Rockenstire. “Bellevue College is well known for innovation and I can’t wait to learn more about all of the exciting programs. I hope that through my role, I can help create new opportunities for students to excel in technical careers.”

Rockenstire is a native Washingtonian and holds a bachelor’s degree in communication from Washington State University.