Long before Daniel Rodriguez became known across 鶹Ƶ as the person who can fix just about anything in a classroom, he was a kid in Prosser taking apart his dad’s speakers just to see how they worked.
That early curiosity — and knack for understanding how things work — would eventually shape a career defined by service, precision and a commitment to helping others succeed. Today, Rodriguez channels that same hands-on determination into his role with YVC’s Technology Services Department, where his behind-the-scenes expertise keeps learning spaces running smoothly. This spring, his dedication earned him the 2026 Darlene Koch Classified Employee of the Year award from the YVC Foundation, recognizing his impact across the college.
From Prosser to the Persian Gulf
After graduating from Prosser High School, Rodriguez joined the Marine Corps in 2002, just months after the attacks on 9/11. Stationed in California, he served two tours in Iraq in roles ranging from motor transportation to armory where he worked with a variety of weapon systems to the Quick Reaction Force — a unit that responds within minutes to emerging threats or emergencies.
“That experience shapes you,” he says. “It teaches you to stay calm, stay focused and figure out the solution no matter what’s in front of you.”
After his honorable discharge from the Marines, he spent time in Oregon before returning to the Yakima Valley. He joined the team at Yakima’s Cintas, taking on increasingly responsible roles in production and distribution while also pursuing higher education at 鶹Ƶ. He eventually earned AAS degrees in Business Management, IT General, IT Support Specialist and Network Administrator.
He served as a work‑study student and later as a part‑time employee in Technology Services before joining YVC’s team full time in 2019.
YVC wasn’t just a place to learn, he says. It was a turning point.
“This college is pretty important to the local community — it gives people the opportunity
to level up,” Rodriguez says. “And for me, my job is to try and give the students
and instructors environments that helps with the learning process.”
Keeping the things running — one classroom at a time
In his role as IT Customer Service Entry, Rodriguez specializes in audio and visual systems used by instructors such as projectors, document cameras, teaching stations and more. He has helped lead the installation of new technologies across the Yakima Campus while also extending the life of older systems — a critical balancing act for a college that depends on reliable classroom tech.
“There’s a lot of looking ahead and saying, ‘OK, what do we think the students will need or what will instructors need?’” Rodriguez says. “And figuring out how best to meet those needs in the classroom.”
Much of that work happens behind the scenes. Rodriguez regularly researches emerging tools, coordinates with vendors and tests solutions before they ever reach a classroom.
ABOVE: Rodriguez examines a classrooms teaching station to ensure optimal performance.
TOP: Rodriguez poses for a photo on YVC's Yakima Campus with Glenn Anthon Hall in
the background.
“There’s a lot of back-and-forth communication happening in the background,” he says.
“But a lot of times it’s us techs — we’re the ones doing a lot of the leg work.”
To faculty and staff, his work is more than technical. It reflects a personal commitment to making sure everyone — from technicians to non-technical staff — feels informed and supported throughout the process.
“Daniel consistently demonstrates exceptional problem-solving abilities that are critical to improving instruction,” says Matthew Loeser, biology instructor. “He bridges the gap between technical concepts and my understanding of how the technology functions for my teaching needs.”
That steady presence is echoed by fellow biology instructor Jerred Seveyka, who says Rodriguez’s reliability directly shapes the learning environment.
“His steady demeanor and strong work ethic make him a tremendous resource for faculty, staff and students alike,” said Seveyka. “By ensuring that our technology functions reliably and resolving issues promptly, Daniel directly contributes to maintaining effective and uninterrupted learning environments.”
STEM Director Cristy Rasmussen shares that confidence, highlighting Rodriguez’s determination
to see every job through.
“Rather than taking the quickest or easiest path, Daniel carefully examines every
angle to ensure the problem is truly resolved,” says Rasmussen. “His attention to
detail and determination to get things right make him an invaluable resource for faculty
and staff.”
Collectively, the three point to the same qualities — reliability, professionalism
and care — traits Rodriguez sums up simply:
“I love the challenge of the job itself,” he says. “But I also love seeing the benefit
of what I do here.”
Beyond the Help Desk
While Rodriguez’s work is visible across campus, his life outside YVC is just as full. A father of two, he coaches youth soccer, enjoys camping and traveling, and often dives into woodworking or tech projects at home.
Whether he’s troubleshooting a projector or mentoring young athletes, the theme is the same: service, focus and care.
About the Classified Employee Award
The was established by former YVC Vice President of Administration and YVC Foundation Executive Director Darlene Koch. This award honors the hard work and dedication of classified staff.
The Board of Directors selects the recipient from nominations submitted by faculty, staff and administrators. The award includes a $1,500 unrestricted monetary gift and is open to any classified employee at 鶹Ƶ.
Story by Stefanie Menard, AA-DTA ’05, communications consultant. Photos by Menard and Brandon Mendoza, AA-DTA '19, graphic designer/multimedia content producer.