2015-Nov-24

Faster, Higher, Stronger: Meet Christopher Riling

Christopher Riling · Global Systems Engineer · U.S.

Christopher Riling developed an interest in technology at a very young age. As a Networking Academy student in his hometown of Sylvania, Ohio, Christopher gained a strong reputation for his skill with Cisco equipment. Despite his knowledge and ability, Christopher had a major hurdle to climb, as a battle with Cerebral Palsy left his future in doubt.

"I spent a fair amount of time in and out of doctor's offices and hospitals during my childhood," said Christopher. "During this time I developed a passion for working with computers. I often wasn't able to participate in the same activities as other children, so I found something I could do instead."

Christopher was not sure if he would ever be able to walk or live independently as an adult. As time went by, he surpassed all expectations. Following several orthopedic surgeries as a child, Christopher is not only able to walk and live independently now, but also has excelled towards the top of his field.

"It is important to fight hard and do the best you can with the cards you are dealt," said Christopher. "I like to tell my story whenever I feel like it has the ability to make a difference in someone's life. Hopefully it will help make them understand that anything is indeed possible."

With a constant passion to defeat the odds, Christopher challenges himself to embody the Olympic motto of "Faster, Higher, Stronger," in all aspects of his life.

"I always knew Cisco had my back," he says. "I could count on this company."

Christopher has worked at Cisco for over seven years, starting in Advanced Services before moving into his current position as a Global Systems Engineer. He credits the family environment at Cisco and adherence to Our People Deal values for his ongoing development, both in-and-out of the workplace.

"Everyone at Cisco has been incredibly supportive of me and to what I've tried to do both personally and professionally," said Christopher. "If I can help people look at their life or their challenges in a different light, and help them overcome whatever mountain they are currently climbing, I will consider myself successful."

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