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Navigating Technology Career Paths in Uncertain Times: Alumni Perspectives
Three accomplished alumni from UNC Charlotte’s College of Computing and Informatics will share their journeys from graduation to building successful careers in technology. They will discuss challenges faced entering the job market, strategies and resources that helped them succeed, and their perspectives on today’s economic climate and career opportunities.

Presenters: 

• Vincent Awong-Cole Jr., Ph.D, Senior Product Owner, Duke Energy Corporation (Ph.D., Leadership Studies- 2024, Master of Science, Information Technology- 2019)

• Tarik Haniff, Lead Information Security Engineer, TIAA (Master's Degree, Cybersecurity- 2021, Bachelor's Degree, Computer Science- 2018)

• Anajali Khuslani, Manager in the Technology Consulting, Ernst & Young’s Financial Services Organization (FSO) (Master's Degree, Data Science and Business Analytics- 2019: Master's Degree, Health Informatics- 2018)

Bios: 

• Vincent Awong-Cole Jr., Ph.D., is an accomplished IT professional and strategic leader specializing in Agile project management, product ownership, Lean Six Sigma process improvement, and CI/CD practices. Currently a Senior Product Owner at Duke Energy, he leverages his expertise to drive innovation, streamline processes, and deliver measurable value through servant leadership. Vincent holds a Ph.D. in Leadership Studies from North Carolina A&T State University, a Master’s in Information Technology from UNC Charlotte, and a Bachelor’s in Information Technology from Methodist University. Beyond his professional achievements, he is a dedicated motivational speaker, mentor, and community advocate, inspiring young people to pursue educational and leadership opportunities.

• Tarik Haniff is a Lead Information Security Engineer at TIAA, specializing in network and cloud security. He holds both a Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science and a Master’s degree in Cybersecurity from the University of North Carolina at Charlotte, graduating summa cum laude. With extensive experience across financial services and technology sectors, Tarik is skilled in safeguarding enterprise systems, optimizing security configurations, and driving cloud security initiatives. Outside of work, he is an active speaker at industry events, a mentor to aspiring cybersecurity professionals, and an avid runner, pickleball player, golfer, and soccer enthusiast.

• Anjali Khushalani is a Manager in the Technology Consulting practice within Ernst & Young’s Financial Services Organization (FSO) – AI & Data, based in Charlotte, NC. She specializes in data management, governance, risk management, analytics, and strategy for large financial institutions. With dual master’s degrees in Data Science & Business Analytics and Health Informatics from UNC Charlotte, Anjali brings a unique blend of technical expertise and business insight. Her experience spans consulting, applied data science, and industry projects—from building predictive models and anomaly detection services to developing data strategies that drive measurable impact. She is passionate about delivering exceptional client outcomes and fostering innovation through collaboration and emerging technologies.