University of Advancing Technology's Official Technology Blog

University of Advancing Technology (UAT) is home to a remarkable group of faculty who bring their passion and expertise to the forefront of education and innovation. Here are eight of UAT’s extraordinary educators who inspire and empower students to lead in the ever-evolving tech landscape.

1. Dapzury Valenzuela
Professor Dapzury Valenzuela combines over 20 years of industry experience with her role as an Art Direction Professor and mentor for UAT’s Student Innovation Project (SIP). She guides students in developing innovative, tech-based projects while emphasizing leadership and collaboration. Dapzury’s dedication to fostering creativity and innovation ensures students graduate ready to lead in their fields.

2. Briant Becote, PhD
With 27 years of military service, including roles as a Naval Flight Officer and cybersecurity expert, Dr. Briant Becote brings unparalleled experience to his role as a Cyber Security Professor. His career, spanning global deployments and leadership roles, provides students with invaluable insights into both technical skills and leadership.

3. Aaron Rodriguez
UAT Cybersecurity Professor Aaron Rodriguez brings over a decade of experience from the U.S. Air Force, where he served in roles from Aircraft Armament Specialist to IT, gaining invaluable skills and life lessons. His military career allowed him to travel globally, shaping his calm, adaptable approach to both life and work. Now, at UAT, he uses his experiences to guide students in cybersecurity, emphasizing the importance of continuous learning and the vital role of securing our digital future.

4. Dr. Mark Smith
Dr. Mark "The Shark" Smith, Senior Professor of Business and Graduate Studies at UAT, is a recognized expert in leadership and management. With an Ed.D. in Organizational Leadership, an MBA, and an MS in Leadership, he has over 15 years of experience leading teams across various industries. In his latest article, Dr. Smith highlights the core qualities of great leaders, including vision, integrity, and adaptability. As the author of How to Not Suck at Leadership: The Handbook of Leading, he is dedicated to helping students become the leaders of tomorrow.

5. Kendra Kim
Kendra Kim’s fervent passion for technology has propelled her into a pivotal role at UAT, where she serves as an educator and curriculum developer specializing in Robotics and Embedded Systems. Kendra bridges the gap between theory and practice, crafting unique experiences like a special topics space course that challenges students to launch rockets or control gliders. Beyond academia, she contributes to world-class manufacturing processes at Collins Aerospace, where her work emphasizes global connectivity and protection. Kendra’s proudest achievement is her ability to empower students with practical skills and knowledge, inspiring them to become creative thinkers who will shape the future of technology.

6. Aaron Jones
Professor Aaron Jones leads UAT’s Cyber Security suite of degrees in Technology Forensics, Network Engineering, and Network Security. With experience as a Cyber Security Analyst, Jones emphasizes mentorship and collaboration, encouraging students to explore multiple tech fields. UAT is designated as a National Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense (CAE-CD) by the National Security Agency (NSA), preparing students for internships and careers in Cyber Security.

7. Craig Belanger
Professor Craig Belanger joined UAT in 2004 as a copywriter and transitioned to faculty after completing his master’s. With nearly 20 years at UAT, he’s seen key milestones like the NSA Center of Academic Excellence designation and the shift to online learning during COVID-19. UAT has become his second home, with deep connections to the community.

8. Derrick Clark
Professor and alumnus Derrick Clark has been with UAT since the early '90s. After graduating in 1995, he began as a lab monitor and transitioned to a full-time Technical Specialist and later a Virtual Reality (VR) professor in 1997. With 28 years of experience, Clark has seen UAT grow and embrace new technologies, notably creating a virtual model of Chase Field (formerly Bank One Ballpark) for decision-makers. His time at UAT, both as a student and faculty member, has shaped the university’s evolution and its forward trajectory.