Building Real Software and a Career That Fits

As a Western IT grad (Web & Software Development, now Software Development with AI),  Corben Vaughn knew early on that he wanted to work in software development. Today, he’s doing exactly that; he is working as a software engineer at Epic IT Automations, where he’s helping finalize a project set to roll out to local businesses.

“Western prepared me very well for this career,” he says. “As well as any college could.”

At Western Technical College, Corben found a learning environment that closely reflects the realities of the field. “The project-based learning and support from professors mirrors how software engineers actually work,” he says.

The Western approach paid off. Corben landed his current role through Handshake, a platform he found more effective and accessible than traditional job boards.

Now working in the field, he’s thinking ahead—and not shying away from the conversation around artificial intelligence. “I’m not afraid of AI,” Corben states. “I’ve learned how to use it to my advantage.” He sees AI as a tool that can improve productivity, but only when used thoughtfully.

“Every good engineer should learn to adapt,” he says. “But not blindly, you still need to think critically.”

That balance—the technical skills paired with critical judgment—was shaped during his time at Western, where folks collaborate and problem-solve in a real-world style as part of everyday classroom work.  “Working with people from different backgrounds prepared me for the real world,” he says. That’s educational value.

Looking ahead, Corben sees a path that could eventually lead to entrepreneurship. But no matter where he goes next, he’s confident in the foundation he built: “I wouldn’t change a thing.”