LAYER8 TRAINING - Key Persons


David Dartt

David began working with Layer 8 Training in April 2013, after working as a technical trainer for over 20 years. Based in San Diego, California, David travels the country presenting trainings on Citrix, Check Point and all things technical. Holding multiple certifications from various disciplines, including Citrix, Microsoft, CompTia, and Check Point, David loves the variety in his personal and professional life. In 2017, David earned Master Citrix Certified Instructor status, which is the highest level for a Citrix instructor. Graduating from University of Arizona with a BS in Technical Writing and Biology, David loves to learn, travel, and explore. David has traversed the globe and is currently only missing two continents: Antarctica and Africa. When not training or traveling, David enjoys performing in front of audiences, having worked in multiple stage productions in and around San Diego, as well as in front of the camera.

Matthew Jones

Matthew joined Layer 8 in 2012 and is currently based out of the New York area, working in the San Francisco and Anaheim area previously. His current expertise is in all things Citrix. He is originally from Oklahoma, where his previous experience included a focus on Cisco, Microsoft, and cyber-security. He holds numerous certifications from Citrix, Microsoft, Cisco, CompTIA, and various security vendors. In 2017, Matthew was promoted to Master Citrix Certified Instructor status. He also holds a master's in technology and innovation from Aspen University and a bachelor's in telecommunications management from Northeastern State University. When not traveling the country or teaching, Matthew is an avid fan of Broadway and cinema. He also enjoys watching football, baseball, and basketball and has spent considerable time as a football coach of both youth and semi-pro teams.

Rhonda Rowland

Rhonda joined Layer 8 in 2009 and is currently based in South Florida. Prior to joining Layer 8, Rhonda worked for Citrix from 2000 to 2006 as a member of Citrix Consulting Services. From 2006 to 2009, Rhonda worked for the Citrix Education department as a technical lead and developed many iterations of labs and courseware for XenApp and NetScaler products. Due to extensive time in the field and continuous involvement with Citrix technologies both inside and outside Citrix Systems, she brings a unique depth of knowledge over a broad range of Citrix Products. Rhonda has extensive experience with XenApp/XenDesktop design and all aspects of NetScaler configuration with load balancing, NetScaler Gateway, and Application Firewall. During her time with Layer 8 Training, Rhonda earned Master Citrix Certified Instructor status. She has been instrumental in developing several iterations of NetScaler Administration, Advanced Administration, and NetScaler Gateway courses for Citrix Education. Rhonda has a bachelor's in computer science from Tulane University School of Engineering. When not training, Rhonda spends most of her time reading books, returning home to Texas to visit family, and riding horses when possible.

Rich Rushton - COO

Job Titles:
  • COO
Rich Rushton has 15 years of experience in the software training industry in business development, partner relations, operations, and general management. Under his leadership, his training centers have won multiple awards, including Citrix Authorized Learning Center of the Year. Rushton has aligned himself with the best trainers and content providers in the industry, establishing a network of strategic partnerships. Rushton makes it possible for Layer 8 to deliver consistent, high-caliber software training anywhere in the world.

Todd Hurst - CEO

Job Titles:
  • CEO
Todd Hurst trained professionals for 11 years with a focus on Citrix. Hurst held certifications as a Citrix Certified Instructor (CCI) and Citrix Certified Enterprise Administrator (CCEA). Working for Citrix as the principal trainer from 2002 to 2003, Hurst contributed to the original Citrix Certified Integration Architect (CCIA) track. Hurst was awarded by Citrix as the CCI of the Year in 2005 and 2006 as well as the Most Strategic CCI in 2007. He holds numerous credits in Citrix training manuals, most recently in the NetScaler 8.0 and 8.1 manuals. Hurst was widely regarded as one of the best Citrix trainers, and now turns his expertise towards providing the best in IT training for professionals in the US. Under his leadership, his training centers have won multiple awards, including Citrix Authorized Learning Center of the Year.