About LearnQuest

Howard Poston is a freelance cyber and blockchain researcher, trainer, consultant, and software developer with extensive experience in developing high-quality educational content. He provides security assessments, conducts research, and engages in code development for both academic and industry projects. Specializing in cryptography, blockchain, malware analysis, and cybersecurity, Howard holds a

Aspen Olmsted is a faculty member in the Computer Science department at Simmons University, where he serves as the Program Director. He holds a Ph.D. in Computer Science and Engineering from The University of South Carolina. Prior to his academic career, Aspen was the CEO of Alliance Software Corporation, which developed N-Tier enterprise applications for the performing arts and humanities market. His research focuses on developing algorithms and architectures for distributed enterprise solutions that ensure security and correctness while maintaining high availability. In his Secure Data Engineering Lab, Aspen mentors over a dozen graduate and undergraduate students each year.

Kris Bennett serves as a Senior Instructor at Blockchain Training Alliance, where he has established himself as a leading voice in blockchain education and implementation worldwide. With over two decades of experience in custom software design, delivery, and consulting, he brings practical expertise to his role as an educator and course developer. His contributions to blockchain education include developing comprehensive architecture training courses and certification exam materials that bridge theoretical concepts with real-world applications. As a global instructor, he has successfully delivered blockchain training across various international markets, adapting complex technical concepts for diverse audiences. His expertise spans blockchain architecture, distributed ledger technology, and enterprise software solutions. Bennett's teaching methodology emphasizes practical application and real-world problem-solving, making complex blockchain concepts accessible to learners at all levels. His work in curriculum development has helped establish industry standards for blockchain education, while his consulting background ensures his training materials reflect current industry needs and technological trends

Alok Agrawal serves as an instructor at LearnQuest, bringing extensive expertise in containerization and cloud technologies. As the instructor for "Introduction to Docker," he specializes in teaching containerization fundamentals and Docker implementation to beginners. His course covers essential concepts including Docker architecture, container orchestration with Docker Compose, and security best practices. With over 25 years of experience in IT, including roles at Dell and Dimension Data, he combines theoretical knowledge with practical industry experience. His teaching methodology emphasizes hands-on learning through practical demonstrations and real-world applications. Beyond his role at LearnQuest, he serves as a Managing Partner at Tecoholic, where he focuses on accelerating IT careers through mentoring and training. His credentials include multiple Microsoft certifications, including Azure Developer Associate, Azure Security Engineer Associate, and Azure Solutions Architect Expert.

Dr. Arthur Salmon brings over twenty years of IT industry experience, complemented by an Applied Doctorate in Computer Science and extensive professional certifications. As a dedicated educator with more than ten years of teaching experience, he specializes in helping learners master IT support skills and obtain industry certifications. His professional journey combines hands-on industry work with a passionate commitment to education, making him a valuable contributor to the IT field. Through his role at LearnQuest, he continues his mission of giving back to the industry by training and mentoring the next generation of IT professionals, drawing from his comprehensive background in various areas of IT support and his deep understanding of certification pathways.

Brent Summers serves as an instructor at LearnQuest, bringing expertise in software development and a unique focus on the intersection of technology and psychology. His teaching portfolio emphasizes ethical considerations in artificial intelligence and computer science. As a former education company founder, he brings entrepreneurial experience to his role as an educator. His courses focus on critical aspects of AI ethics, including algorithmic fairness, data privacy, and ethical implementation of artificial intelligence technologies. His teaching methodology combines technical expertise with psychological insights to help students understand both the technical and ethical implications of modern technology.

Derek Parsons serves as an instructor at LearnQuest, specializing in Java enterprise technologies and Spring Framework implementation. His expertise spans core Java technologies, enterprise applications, and modern web development frameworks. As an educator, he delivers comprehensive courses covering Enterprise Java Beans (EJBs), Jakarta Persistence API (JPA), Java Database Connectivity (JDBC), and Spring Framework components. His teaching portfolio demonstrates deep knowledge of enterprise Java development, from fundamental database connectivity to advanced Spring Boot applications and microservices architecture. His courses provide practical insights into building robust enterprise applications using Spring ecosystem tools and Java enterprise technologies.

Doug Purcell serves as an instructor at LearnQuest, specializing in Test-Driven Development (TDD) methodologies and software engineering best practices. His expertise focuses on teaching developers how to integrate TDD into their daily workflow, emphasizing clean code practices and efficient testing strategies. As the lead instructor for the Test-Driven Development Specialization, he has helped over 3,400 students master TDD principles and practices. His teaching methodology combines theoretical concepts with practical applications, using Python-based examples and hands-on projects. His courses consistently receive high ratings (4.3/5.0) from students, reflecting his ability to make complex testing concepts accessible to learners of varying skill levels

Dr. Fortem Mbah serves as a Migration Specialist for Infrastructure Modernization at Google, bringing extensive expertise in cloud architecture, IoT security, and infrastructure modernization. His academic credentials include a Doctor of Information Technology from Walden University, along with specialized training from MIT Sloan School of Management and the National Security Agency. His professional experience spans roles at major technology companies including Google, NTT Ltd., and Red Hat, where he has implemented complex cloud solutions and security architectures. As founder of Dr. Fortem's InfoTech Academy (FITA), he continues to contribute to technology education. His teaching portfolio at LearnQuest focuses on IoT security, covering comprehensive topics from foundational architecture to advanced security implementation strategies.

Ed Lance serves as Chief Technology Officer at nTier Training, bringing over 25 years of programming and consulting experience to his role as an educator and Agile coach. As founder of nTier Training, he achieved consistent annual growth of over 20% for a decade while maintaining an intensive schedule of 100+ training days annually. His impact extends to approximately 150,000 students through his development of more than 90 learning curricula covering leadership, Agile methodologies (Kanban, Lean, XP, Scrum), Software Design, Java, Angular, and PHP. His expertise spans working with organizations of all sizes, from startups to Fortune 500 companies, providing guidance on Agile transformation and advanced IT strategies. His teaching portfolio at LearnQuest focuses on Java Enterprise technologies and database integration, reflecting his comprehensive understanding of enterprise software development

A seasoned Senior Analytics Consultant and Technical Instructor bringing over a decade of expertise in data analytics and data science. Specializing in Teradata, SQL, Python, dbt, and Power BI, with demonstrated success in handling complex datasets and extracting actionable insights. Professional experience includes leading data-focused initiatives, designing data strategies, implementing data pipelines, and deploying machine learning models, resulting in measurable improvements in sales, reduced churn, and enhanced customer outreach. Educational background includes a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from the University of Colorado at Boulder's Leeds School of Business, with a focus on Information and Operations Management. Teaching methodology emphasizes hands-on instruction, incorporating real-world examples and fostering a high-standard learning environment that challenges students to exceed their potential. Committed to transforming careers through comprehensive technical education and practical application of data analytics concepts.

Erik Herman serves as a certified technical trainer and data analytics professional, bringing a unique combination of technical expertise and educational background. His credentials include CompTIA CTT+ certification, Modern Classroom Certified Trainer (MCCT) designation, and IBM business and financial analytics certification. As a self-described "data nerd" with an English degree, he brings a distinctive perspective to technical education, combining analytical rigor with effective communication skills. His professional experience spans software training, consulting, curriculum development for higher education, trade publishing, market research, and sales. As an instructional designer and e-learning specialist, he develops comprehensive technical courses, particularly focusing on IBM mainframe technologies, data analysis, and cloud computing fundamentals.

Evan Bergman serves as an instructor at LearnQuest, bringing over three decades of experience in software development education. His expertise focuses on Java Development and Development Methodologies, making complex programming concepts accessible to learners of all levels. As a seasoned educator, he specializes in teaching fundamental programming concepts, object-oriented programming principles, and Java development practices. His comprehensive teaching approach covers everything from basic application programming fundamentals to advanced Java class libraries and object-oriented hierarchies.

Graham Jones serves as a lead instructor at LearnQuest, specializing in advanced Kubernetes implementations and cloud infrastructure solutions. His expertise focuses on complex container orchestration, advanced deployment strategies, and enterprise-scale Kubernetes implementations. As the primary instructor for the Advanced Kubernetes Specialization, he teaches critical concepts including deployment strategies, networking, security, monitoring, and advanced orchestration techniques. His courses are designed for experienced Kubernetes administrators, DevOps engineers, and cloud architects seeking to enhance their expertise in container orchestration and management. His teaching methodology emphasizes practical application and real-world scenarios, helping students master complex Kubernetes concepts and best practices.

Grayson Lyvers serves as an instructor at LearnQuest, specializing in Java testing methodologies and enterprise application development. His expertise focuses on Java Enterprise Edition, JUnit testing frameworks, and Test-Driven Development (TDD) practices. As a lead instructor for Java Testing Specialization courses, he has taught over 4,700 students across multiple platforms. His course portfolio covers comprehensive testing methodologies, from basic JUnit implementation to advanced concepts like parameterized testing and mocking. His teaching approach emphasizes practical application through hands-on labs and real-world examples, helping students master enterprise-level Java development and testing practices

Jason Cox and Nick Harauz serve as lead instructors at LearnQuest, bringing combined decades of experience in video editing and motion graphics. Jason Cox, currently VP of Media Production at Grid & Pixel, began his journey as a Creative at Apple before becoming an Apple Certified Trainer in 2009. His accomplishments include publishing the "Final Cut Pro X Cookbook" in 2012 and training editors at prestigious organizations including The Washington Post, ABC News, and National Geographic. Nick Harauz, a certified Adobe, Apple, and Avid trainer since 2002, has worked with major brands including Proctor & Gamble, Diageo, and Virgin Mobile. Together, they bring comprehensive expertise in video production, motion graphics, and professional editing software to their courses.

Jim Sullivan serves as a Master Trainer and Technology Practitioner at LearnQuest, bringing extensive expertise in DevOps, Cloud Computing, Blockchain, and Agile methodologies. As Chief Technology Officer at Arcisphere Technologies and theBlockchainacademy, he demonstrates leadership in emerging technologies and enterprise transformation. His credentials include Certified SAFe 6 Practice Consultant, Corda Certified Developer, and numerous certifications in Kubernetes, Hyperledger, and Agile methodologies. With over 25 years of experience, including significant tenure at Merck and Co., he combines deep technical knowledge with practical implementation expertise. His teaching portfolio spans cloud computing, Java programming, Scrum methodologies, and blockchain technologies.

Kenny Mobley serves as a technology leader with 24 years of experience in aligning business strategies with technological solutions. His expertise spans across Fortune 20 companies, mid-sized organizations, and startups, where he has successfully implemented data-driven business practices and optimized organizational processes. As Vice President of Services, he has demonstrated success in creating environments for delivering creative, cost-effective data analytics and cloud-based solutions. His recent accomplishments include leading a transformative cloud migration project for a Fortune 500 retailer's data analytics assets and services. At LearnQuest, he shares his expertise through courses focused on Azure cloud technologies and data processing, helping professionals master cloud computing concepts and implementation strategies.

Luciana Broussard serves as an instructor at LearnQuest, bringing over 20 years of industry technology experience and 8 years of IT education camps management expertise. Currently working as a project manager at a major university, she specializes in cybersecurity, remote team security, and incident management. Her comprehensive course portfolio includes specialized training in Mac security, remote team security fundamentals, and advanced security implementations. She leads the "Identifying and Managing Security Gaps for Remote Teams" specialization, which equips professionals with essential knowledge for securing remote work environments. Her teaching methodology emphasizes practical application through hands-on exercises, case studies, and real-world scenarios.

Mark Price serves as a lead instructor at LearnQuest, bringing over a decade of iOS development experience since 2009. His portfolio includes significant contributions to major projects for companies like Logitech, YellowPages, Call of Duty, and Family Video. With over 50 successful iOS and Android app launches to his credit, he specializes in teaching Swift 5 and iOS app development. His comprehensive course series covers everything from basic programming concepts to advanced topics like app monetization and in-app purchases. As an educator, he focuses on practical, hands-on learning approaches that help students create functional apps, design user interfaces, work with data, and implement monetization strategies.