Meet Our Instructors

Joe Lake

Have you ever stopped to think about how connected you are to the world? Need an answer? It’s a quick Google search away. Craving pizza? You can find a place and read reviews in seconds. The Internet makes all of this possible, and I’m fascinated by how computer networks work. I love building networks that help people with their businesses, jobs, communication, and enjoyment.

I hold a Master of Business Administration and a Bachelor of Business Administration from Western Michigan University, and I’m a Microsoft Certified Systems Engineer and a Cisco Networking Academy and CompTIA Academy instructor. I also completed the Teacher Leadership Academy and hold a Michigan Professional Teaching Certificate and a Michigan Vocational Authorization. In industry, I worked as an independent contractor designing, building, and troubleshooting networks for small businesses, taught Microsoft Networking classes for M-TECH, and worked with WMU accounting and finance professors on research projects.

Outside of school, I live in Rockford with my wife, our three kids, and our dog. We enjoy parks, concerts, and sporting events, and I like to golf and cheer on the Detroit Lions and the Michigan State Spartans. 

Jon Rilley

I’m a Cisco Networking Academy instructor with a background that blends technology support and education. I started out as a computer technician for Zeeland Public Schools and Central Michigan University, and I also worked as a computer technician and help desk specialist at Design Craftsmen. I later moved into teaching as a Business and Technology Education teacher at Holland Public Schools.

I earned both my Bachelor of Science in Business Education and my Master’s in Learning, Design, and Technology from Central Michigan University.

Kristina Vandermeer

I was born and raised in Grand Rapids and graduated from The Potter’s House High School. After eleven years traveling the world on active duty with the US Navy, I recently moved back home, and I’m now a Chief Information Systems Technician in the Navy Reserve. In the Navy, I worked as a systems security analyst, systems administrator, cyber security manager, communications security instructor, and helpdesk supervisor.

I hold a Bachelor of Science in Social Studies Education from Indiana Wesleyan University, and I’m an NCCT Certified Postsecondary Instructor and a Navy Master Training Specialist. I also completed the United Services Military Apprenticeship Program as an instructor and computer operator, and I hold CompTIA Security+ and A+ certifications. Before my Navy Reserve role, I worked as a field services helpdesk technician at Indiana Wesleyan University and as a paraprofessional and Summer Academy teacher at Grand River Preparatory High School.

I live in Creston Heights and enjoy traveling, baking sourdough, collecting books, and volunteering with community organizations. My role at KCTC is to help all students find success in our programs, and I love every minute of it!