Student Spotlight: Jose Ortiz-Martinez – From Soccer Fields to Cybersecurity

Meet Jose Ortiz-Martinez, a driven and passionate student technician in Western Michigan University’s Information Technology department. With roots in Ann Arbor and a family legacy that spans continents, Jose brings a unique blend of determination, humility, and ambition to both his academic and professional journey.

A Path Inspired by Family and Opportunity

Jose’s journey to WMU was inspired by his sister, Evey Ortiz-Martinez, a standout alumna whose success story is well-known across campus. With her guidance and a job opportunity already lined up, Jose made the leap to Western, where he found a welcoming environment and a strong program in cybersecurity.

Originally a computer science major, Jose pivoted to cybersecurity after recognizing the growing demand and opportunities in the field. “There’s a lot more growth,” he explains. “As much as development is important, there’s been a little bit of a hold when it comes to developing software. Cybersecurity is about protecting and accessing—it’s more dynamic.”

Tech One on the Front Lines

As a Tech One Help Desk Technician, Jose is often the first point of contact for students, staff, alumni, and retirees facing tech issues. From account reactivations to Wi-Fi troubleshooting, Jose handles it all with professionalism and empathy. “You learn a lot about people,” he says. “It teaches you how to talk to them correctly and how to be professional.”

His role has become a stepping stone into the tech world, offering valuable experience and people skills that will serve him well in his future career.

Looking Ahead

Jose is on track to graduate in Spring 2028, though he’s considering summer classes to accelerate his timeline. His goals are refreshingly grounded: build a stable career, form meaningful connections, and explore life beyond the classroom. “I’m not thinking about going big or being an entrepreneur. I just want a steady life and to start living it.”

Beyond the Screen

Outside of work and school, Jose is a lifelong soccer player who once considered playing at the collegiate level. Though he chose academics over athletics, he still enjoys pickup games and stays active. He’s also a fan of shows like Invincible and is a member of the Cybersecurity Club on campus.

A Legacy of Resilience

Jose draws deep inspiration from his family—especially his father, who immigrated from Mexico at 17 with nothing but determination. “He’s literally a living legend,” Jose says. “Started from the bottom, now we’re here.” His sister, a TechNext alum who’s already making waves in California, is another major influence.