The need for trained and talented IT professionals in Michigan is growing by leaps and bounds. According to CompTIA, a not-for-profit computing technology association, the Michigan IT sector grew by more than five percent in 2016 adding nearly 11,000 new jobs. That brings the estimated number of workers employed in technology in Michigan to almost 222,000. This increasing demand for trained workers is not going to stop. To meet this need, it is more important than ever to have accredited educational programs in place to continue to fill the pipeline of educated IT professionals.
Macomb Community College has stepped up to help students join the IT ranks with seven programs designed to provide students with the necessary education and hands-on experience to prosper in this growing economic segment. Employment in each of the sectors focused on by Macomb is expected to grow by at least 12 to 28 percent by 2020.
“Technology is a huge part of our daily lives,” said Robert Banta, professor, Information Technology. “That fact isn’t going to change. Every day we see more and more students looking to take advantage of this burgeoning segment to build a better future for themselves.”
Macomb’s programs include:
The IT Professional program, designed for students new to the IT world seeking entry-level positions and for experienced workers looking to move up the ladder. This program covers web design, basic programming and networking and delivers a background understanding of Windows-based applications including word processing, spreadsheet applications, presentations, and database management.
The Information Technology Programming specialty is for students who are interested in becoming programmers responsible for writing, testing and maintaining computer program source code. The specialty prepares students for career paths as application or computer programmers.
Students who are interested in a career path in network security should explore Macomb’s Network Security Professional program. This emphasis focuses on the measures organizations take to protect the confidentiality, integrity and availability of data.
Network administration is also growing specialty. Students pursuing this career path in Macomb’s Microsoft Enterprise Administrator program will receive training specific to the administration of Windows client and servers for organizations of all sizes. The program contains the education and hands-on training needed to pursue a Microsoft network administration certification.
The Website Programming emphasis provides students with training in website design and architecture, search engine optimization and website development, deployment and maintenance. When completing this program, students will have the skills necessary web coding and programming techniques.
Offered in partnership with Cisco Systems, Inc., the Cisco Network Associate program prepares students to take the Cisco Certified Network Associate exam, a certification that attests to an individual’s ability to install, configure and troubleshoot Cisco network communication equipment.
Students interested in designing, developing and programming computer games should check out Macomb’s Programming for Electronic Games program. Combining elements of advanced physics and artificial intelligence, 3D graphics, and digitized sound, students acquire specialized skills that can lead to successful careers in computer gaming and the production of training materials including computerized simulators.
“There is a bright future just waiting for our students who want to enter the IT world,” said Banta. “At Macomb, we are committed to help them find the pathway that is perfect for them and help them continue to grow and prosper in this very healthy economic sector.”
