Charles Britt works for Northrop Grumman, one of the leading defense contactors in the nation. As a project manager, he is an expert in information technology with a passion for computers.

As a teenager who grew up without a computer in his house, Britt could have missed the career possibilities in science or engineering. Luckily, he received enough guidance in high school and an extra boost by attending Capitol College’s NASA PREP summer program.

“I participated in a computer-focused curriculum while in high school as part of a talented and gifted program. I have always been fascinated with computers,” Britt says. “Growing up, we never had a personal computer in our home. I figured if I went to college and majored in a computer discipline, I could learn all I ever wanted to know about how computers work.”

Britt attended NASA PREP in 1996. The six-week experience is one he is still grateful for. With college-intensive coursework taught by professors, Britt had a better idea of what to expect in his first semester. As a Capitol student, he studied software and Internet applications and served as president of the National Society of Black Engineers. He seized every opportunity for internships and more experience. He received his degree in 2002.

Since then, he has worked for some of the top businesses in the country. Along with Northrop Grumman, he worked for Lockheed Martin and SAIC. His work has taken him around the world.

But he keeps coming back to Capitol College. A frequent guest speaker and motivator to students at events like Career Day and NASA PREP, Britt recently joined the Alumni Advisory Board. He remains a leader in the National Society of Black Engineers.

Capitol College and its partners opened doors of opportunity for Britt. And now, as an accomplished professional, he’s more than willing to offer his share of career advice for students, especially when they ask the important questions – like how to get that coveted security clearance.

 “Luck,” says Britt at a career event, only half joking. “You have to be a saint because they look at your criminal background. And they will talk to your neighbors and your professors. Your reputation is very important. Make sure your relationships with your professors are good because they came to this very campus to find out about me.”