02/14/11 kkh

HAYS, Kan. -- A passion for technology that has developed since childhood in Goodland will lead a Fort Hays State University senior to Mountain View, Calif., and around the world. The latest opportunity to come Josh Cech's (pronounced Check) way is an offer to work for Google Inc. as an internal technology resident.

Cech, who now lives in Wichita, starts at Google's Mountain View headquarters in August.

"I will spend two years at Google ... learning about an enormous expanse of technologies that power every aspect of how people work with computers at Google," said Cech. "The Internal Technology Residency Program will equip me with not only the skills I need to be successful at Google, but also those I will need as a future information technology leader."

Cech went through a typical job application procedures to land the job, submitting an application and completing a job interview. He also attended Google's College Day in Mountain View to complete more interviews.

"I enjoyed Google's approach to hiring and found the process to be both challenging and interesting," he said.

"The primary reason I accepted an offer from Google was the opportunity to work with so many intelligent individuals who are developing products that are continuously changing our lives and the way we communicate on a global scale," said Cech. "The Silicon Valley area is home to many of the world's largest technology corporations, and I am excited to be immersed in the innovative spirit of the region."

Cech will also travel beyond Mountain View, spending time in many of Google's more than 60 offices around the world.

Having been exposed to computers at a young age, it didn't take Cech long to become passionate about technology.

"My passion for technology grew from exposure to computers at a young age, along with tremendous support from family and the community," he said. "Technology brings complexities and vast amounts of freedom for creativity that I have always found intriguing. That initial desire to learn has intensified exponentially throughout my life."

Cech has experienced the FHSU life both on campus and as a student in the Virtual College, of which he is currently enrolled and majoring in computer networking.

"Fort Hays developed a program that allowed me to focus on a specialized concentration which complemented my career goals, in addition to offering a diverse selection of both technology and general academic courses," he said.

"I am thankful to have received such excellent support and guidance from my professors and advisor. I was given multiple opportunities to expand in my chosen area, along with assistance to overcome challenges associated with industry demands. Fort Hays is an institution of creative thinkers who have provided me the foundation to become an innovator in my career."

Cech said he looks forward to being a part of the changes in technology that will impact the world.

"This is an exciting time, and one that encourages limitless creativity and learning."