CACI and Bellevue Power Jonathan Hernandez's Degree Journey
It’s graduation season! And if seeing all the cap and gown jubilation has inspired you, CACI employees should know that the company has partnerships with several universities and a tuition reimbursement program that can help make employees' educational dreams come true.
Jonathan K. Hernandez took advantage of the company’s educational benefits, earning a Master of Science in Acquisition and Contract Management last year from Bellevue University. He has worked for CACI for more than seven years and is currently a senior program analyst/government liaison for three separate agencies.
“I chose to pursue another degree as I felt it was appropriate for my increased responsibilities within the position, as well as my desire to become better at what I do,” said Jonathan, who has a bachelor’s degree in military management and program acquisition. “I remain committed to learning every single day!”
Jonathan was thankful for the flexibility that earning his degree online provided. In addition to working full-time and spending quality time with his family, he had to juggle being a patient advocate for a loved one; that responsibility meant often finishing assignments from a hospital room. Still, he completed his master’s degree in 18 months.
“It was challenging for me personally, but despite all that, each professor was extremely gracious and empathetic,” he said. “They worked with me every step of the way. Bellevue understands the lives of its students and places their success as a top priority.”
They worked with me every step of the way. Bellevue understands the lives of its students and places their success as a top priority.
Jonathan said he also had tremendous support at work, which he believes was essential to his success.
“CACI managers and leadership supported me 100% of the way when I first brought up the idea of getting my MS,” he said. “They understand this is not just an investment for you personally, but an investment in the company’s future. We are all here for one thing – to ensure the warfighter has the very best in their hands at all times. We owe it to them, and to ourselves, to grow beyond what we are today.”
Jonathan urges other employees who are contemplating pursuing their first degree or advanced degrees to go for it. His advice is to set a path to success early and don’t shy away from seeking support.
“Exercise your relationships to ensure you are setting the conditions needed to succeed – from your immediate management chain and your family and friends to your professors and classmates,” he said. “Don’t ever be afraid to ask for help. We are all here to help lift one another up!”