How Round are iTech Students?

The answer is WELL-ROUNDED!

I recently shared an article about hiring predictions for 2012.  Following is an excerpt detailing traits that employers in IT are looking for in successful candidates:

• Sense-making - ability to determine the deeper meaning of what is being expressed
• Social intelligence - connecting to others in deep and direct way
• Cross-cultural competency - able to operate in different cultural surroundings
• Computational thinking - translate massive amounts of data into abstract concepts
• New-media literacy - assess and develop content that uses new forms of media and can leverage that use
• Virtual collaboration - productive work, engagement and presence among a virtual team

As you can see these are not subjects that are found in your CompTIA or Cisco certifications.  However, they are vital in the workplace and you as a professional will need to develop these "soft skills" and be able to demonstrate your proficiency in them.

So how are we going to do that?

1. Sense-making - Classroom and Class Cafe' discussions will be used to make connections between what we are learning in the text and the real world.  Be sure to make periodic reflections on these in your bog.
2. Social intelligence - Internships play a big part into this.  Role-playing will also be used in class.  Most importantly we will adhere to a professional level of communication in class.  Spelling and grammar in email communication will count.  And ABSOLUTELY no text lingo.  (OMG, RLY?)
3. Cross-cultural competency - As I want to learn more about the Immokalee community and its rich history, we will be working with each other to become colleges and learn more about the culture from which we each come.  We will also explore basic workplace etiquette, cultural biases, and gain insight on the world outside of Southwest Florida.
4. Computational thinking - All of your class projects will be backed by research that you have done on your own to support the end result.  Make sure that you validate and document your sources to make your finding credible.
5. New-media literacy - Creating a portfolio that incorporates well a well-maintained blog, Facebook, YouTube and Twitter account.  Starting now will establish both a habit of regular posting, and give your accounts an established foundation on a variety of topics.
6. Virtual collaboration -  We will be breaking into groups to complete a variety of projects.  For these we will also try to partner with programs in other tech schools around the state using online collaboration tools.

By its nature, Computer Systems Technology and Cybersecurity is a pretty dry subject.  Additionally, the work can be pretty solitary.  But people who are really successful in the field have learned to step away from the computer and make themselves shine.  Hopefully, together we can establish the foundation to make your star rise long after you leave our campus.

Blog > Weekly Word on the Street: 2012 Predictions

I would like to share the following article about predictions in IT hiring for the next year. While significant growth is not predicted, there is definitely some reason for hope.  There are more opportunities everyday for iTech graduates.

Blog > Weekly Word on the Street: 2012 Predictions

Students should pay close attention to a couple points in the article: 

• First, the importance of having a broad base of skills that an employer can draw upon. Make sure that you don't limit your career by becoming too specialized.  Think about what certification paths you are pursuing and how you can add value to an employer by supplementing that with additional training or certifications.
• Second, internships are a great way to get hired. We are currently working to provide more opportunities for students here in the school district, but also with out advisory committee members and community partners. Also, consider looking into a summer internship outside of the area. Many of the big technology companies like Google, Facebook, and Dropbox are actually competing for next summer's intern candidates. Watch this blog for a more in depth discussion of internships and resources.

The key to success in finding meaningful work after you complete this program is planning and preparation.  Start now with creating your portfolio and polishing your resume.  Practice interviewing with family members.  Employers are looking for more than just a certificate.  Make sure you give it to them!