Erik Pfeiffer

Erik Pfeiffer’s life changed after September 11, 2001.  As a sheet metal worker, the company he worked for lost a lot of business, forcing lay offs.  “I really began to reexamine my life,” he says.

Shortly after, Erik enrolled at MiraCosta College in order to prepare himself for a new career in the computer industry.  A committed, hard-working student, he took 18 units a semester and graduated with a Certificate of Competence in Computer Networking Administration and a Certificate of Achievement in Unix Administration.

“I’ve been involved with computer networking since the early 1990’s,” explains Erik.  “I knew I wanted to work in the computer industry, and when I first enrolled at MiraCosta I thought I’d end up getting a job supporting IT in a computer company. However, with the encouragement of MiraCosta instructor Martin Parks I ended up starting my own business and I love every minute of it!”

When Erik graduated, he founded Encinitas-based Silver Ace Consulting, which provides on-site tech support and computer consulting for small businesses.  As an independent consultant, Erik does a lot of front-line tech support, preventive maintenance, and the monitoring and securing of company networks.  His business takes him all over San Diego and into a variety of different types of businesses.

“I love being my own boss.  I think this is the greatest thing I have ever done with my life,” Erik explains.  “The networking program and the support I got from the MiraCosta faculty was excellent. In all honesty, the Networking Program at MiraCosta changed my life for the better.”