Our Instructors

Meet the dedicated instructors who inspire and guide students on their journey at iCSI. Our team brings a wealth of cybersecurity expertise, passion, professionalism, and experience to the classroom, ensuring that students receive an education that goes beyond textbooks.

Passionate Educators

Sarah Moran, Director of iCSI

Sarah has over 14 years of teaching and administrative experience in both local and international environments.  Having obtained a Bachelors in International Relations and a Master’s in International Development along with certifications in Social Studies 8-12 and Principal K-12, Sarah's educational journey began in San Antonio, where she graduated from Madison High School in NEISD. She pursued higher education at Fairfield University, the University of the Incarnate Word, and St. Mary’s University.

Sarah's commitment to education led her to serve as a secondary English and science teacher in Sierra Leone with the United States Peace Corps, followed by teaching experiences in San Antonio and Niamey, Niger. Returning to her roots, Sarah is honored to lead iCSI, driven by a passion for educational excellence and innovation. Married to an educator and mother to three children attending NEISD schools, she is dedicated to creating a supportive learning environment and advancing educational opportunities for all students at iCSI.

Eric Asel, Instructor

Eric is an experienced educator with a decade of teaching in cybersecurity, AP Computer Science, networking, and robotics. He holds a Bachelor's degree in Technical Communications from UTSA and certifications including CompTIA ITF+, CompTIA Sec+, and Apple Certified Mac Technician. Before transitioning to education, he worked as a computer technician with Apple.

Passionate about fostering a "Learn by Doing" environment, Eric believes in the power of hands-on activities to unlock technology's full potential. His goal is to equip students with the skills to become tech-savvy professionals and well-rounded individuals, ready to meet the demands of the modern world.

Josh Beck, Instructor

Josh Beck is a seasoned educator with 24 years of teaching experience, specializing in preparing students for CompTIA, CISCO, and Offensive Security certifications. He holds certifications in CompTIA ITF+, Net+, Sec+, CCNA, and CCNA CyberOps. Josh’s comprehensive approach to education involves aligning curriculum with industry standards and trends, with his students learning through labs and real-world scenarios. He is passionate about empowering students to achieve professional success and continuously updates his lessons with the latest developments in cybersecurity.

Josh's teaching career began in 2001, and he transitioned to NEISD in 2005, joining the Krueger MS KSAT program to teach programming, animation, and game design. In 2013, he pioneered IT Certification classes at Roosevelt’s magnet school program, now known as SETA. By 2020, he expanded district-wide cybersecurity offerings with the opening of iCSI. Josh also sponsors several extracurricular events and clubs, including CyberPatriot and the National Cyber League, where his teams have consistently excelled. His commitment to students is evident in their success after graduation.

Brandi Nguyen, Instructor

Brandi Nguyen is a dedicated educator with over 15 years of experience in teaching technology and computer science. Since 2022, she has specialized in teaching CompTIA ITF+ concepts and certifying students. Her background includes several years as a middle school computer science and digital media teacher and a CyberPatriot coach, guiding students through national cyberdefense competitions. Brandi holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Information Systems and certifications in CompTIA IT Fundamentals (ITF+) and CompTIA Security+, reflecting her commitment to ongoing professional development.

Brandi’s teaching philosophy emphasizes a growth mindset, encouraging curiosity, and building connections. She creates a supportive learning environment that integrates experiences with knowledge, aiming to equip students with the skills and confidence to excel in technology. By focusing on collaboration and critical thinking, Brandi inspires her students to become lifelong learners and problem solvers.

Pedro Saenz, Instructor 

Pedro Saenz brings 18 years of experience in public education, starting his career in Social Studies before transitioning to Career and Technology Education (CTE). He has taught a range of CTE courses, including Principles of Computer Science, Tech Applications, and Robotics. Pedro is certified in CompTIA ITF+ and holds a Bachelor’s in Computer Information Systems and is pursuing a Master’s in Curriculum and Instruction.

With a background in ITF+ concepts, web development, programming, and graphic design, Pedro tailors instruction to meet diverse learning needs, using interactive cybersecurity challenges to engage students. His approach focuses on skills and high expectations, preparing students for legitimate scenarios. Pedro has also sponsored CyberPatriot and Robotics programs and developed various CTE curriculum for NEISD.

Victor Harris, Instructor

Colonel (Ret.) Victor H. Harris brings a distinguished 39-year military career to his role in education, where he applies his extensive experience in cyber operations and intelligence. Raised in Mexico and the Rio Grande Valley, Colonel Harris spent two decades in the National Capital Region, developing cyber policy for Congress and the National Guard. His military career includes roles as a Tank Turret Mechanic, Infantryman, Paratrooper, Army Ranger, Black Hawk Pilot, Counterintelligence Special Agent, and Cyber Operations Officer. He has collaborated with organizations like the NSA and Defense Counterintelligence and Security Agency and authored a classified thesis on cyber operations.

Colonel Harris holds multiple advanced degrees, including a Master of Arts in Strategic Studies from the Army War College and a Master of Science in Technology Intelligence from the National Intelligence University. He believes in maintaining the highest expectations for all students and sees education as a collaborative effort between teacher and student. His approach emphasizes consistency, diligence, and a supportive classroom environment, aiming to inspire these values in his students.