Training for the New Economy: Information Technology and Computer Applications
From IT Workers in Short Supply, Star Tribune, January 5, 2009, Laura French
"Over the next decade, six out of the top eight high pay/high growth occupations are IT related. Yet the numbers of computer science majors has declined, and so has the availability of foreign workers. Combining technical proficiency with business knowledge is a good career strategy."
Almost everyone can benefit from training on the latest software and new technologies. Additionally, if you are currently unemployed, you may be eligible to receive some money for training and education. The current tight job market makes this an excellent time to utilize training funds for classes or certificates that will expand your skills and career opportunities.
If you are unemployed and believe that you might benefit from training, you are probably wondering how to access these funds. The first step is to meet with your WorkForce counselor and establish a training plan. A list of Minnesota WorkForce Centers can be found at www.mnwfc.org Training dollars are often allocated based on whether it will improve your employability for the type of job or industry in which you are looking to be hired. And, since almost every profession requires computer skills and information technology, you will likely be approved for some level of training.
Once you are approved, Normandale offers courses and certificates designed for various levels of expertise and workplace applications. When you take continuing education classes, you will earn a certificate for each course that is completed. In addition, when you complete a certain number of classes in a particular area of study, you will earn a specialized certificate in one of the following areas:
- Database Management
- Excel Spreadsheet
- Computer Essentials
"Our students consistently appreciate our instructors' enthusiastic, results-oriented, and real world approach to training. The curriculum is constantly updated to reflect the latest products and features. When you complete a Normandale certificate, you can be confident that you are learning the most relevant skills available." -- Jeff Hudson, Program Director
Two other newer certificates are the Graphic Design Publications and Web Design certificates. These classes will provide you with skill development in high demand areas. These certificates are often sought by those looking for jobs with small businesses or in communications, marketing, design and business development fields. Both of these certificates offer a unique “portfolio� component. Built in to each of the classes is a hands-on learning component which will culminate into a final project. Your instructor will work with you to refine your skills to create your graphic design examples that can then be used in your own portfolio.
If a certificate program is not in your training plan, we offer individual classes in accounting software, project management, and SQL. If you are in the IT field, Normandale also offers several classes in programming, networking, security, and voice technologies.
For more information or if you have questions, contact Jeff Hudson at (952) 487-7120.
