Certifications Earned:
IT Fundamentals, A+, Network+, Windows Server Pro, Linux Pro, Network Pro
Alif Ancheita, 31, is a man of many talents and passions. Living in Utah, surrounded by breathtaking landscapes, Alif thrives in the great outdoors. Whether hiking through national parks or conquering grueling endurance races like Tough Mudder, he’s always up for a challenge. But Alif’s story doesn’t stop at physical feats—his journey into the world of IT is equally inspiring.
A passion for challenges
Alif’s love for pushing his limits was evident when he completed his first Tough Mudder, a 10–12 mile endurance race filled with military-style obstacles. “It’s very satisfying to finish,” he said. “Other races are to have fun, but this is to test yourself to see if you can handle the punishment.” This same determination carried over into his professional life, where he tackled the challenges of building a career in IT.
From Mexico to the U.S.: A journey of opportunity
Originally from Mexico City, Alif moved to the United States in 2006 to support his wife, Tania, as she pursued her education. While working full-time, he nurtured his passion for technology, teaching himself about computers and earning his first two IT certifications: CompTIA IT Fundamentals and CompTIA A+.
Once Tania graduated, Alif enrolled at LDS Business College in Salt Lake City, where he earned three associate degrees in Integrated Studies, IT Network Engineering, and IT Server Administration. Along the way, he added six more certifications to his résumé, including CompTIA Network+, Linux Pro, and Windows Server Pro certifications.
Excelling in cybersecurity
Alif’s drive to learn led him to join LDSBC’s cybersecurity team, where he played a pivotal role in their fourth-place finish at the 2015 Rocky Mountain CCDC competition. The intense two-day event required teams to protect a mock company’s infrastructure while fending off constant cyberattacks. “I honestly learned more during that weekend than during the entire semester of school,” Alif said.
Inspired by the competition, Alif spearheaded an independent project to recreate a similar environment at LDSBC. His efforts culminated in the school’s first Cyber Challenge, an event so successful that it became an annual tradition. “Alif was the star of the show, and I could not be more proud of him,” said Spencer DeGraw, LDSBC’s IT program director.
Balancing work, life, and adventure
Despite his busy schedule, Alif finds time to enjoy life with his wife, Tania, and their pets, Momo and Titito. He’s an avid hiker, soccer player, and adventurer, having gone skydiving, hiked Zion National Park’s Subway, and taken a motorcycle trip to Mount Rushmore.
Looking ahead
Alif Ancheita’s story is a testament to the power of hard work, education, and determination. From endurance races to IT certifications, he’s proving that with the right mindset, anything is possible.