Walsh University is launching a new Skilled Workforce Training Program designed to teach essential skills people need to thrive in a technology-based economy. This program is in alignment with statewide initiatives and national trends to provide working men and women with practical skills that make them immediately more valuable to their employers. The program officially begins in summer 2020 with online sessions slated for May 19-21 and June 9-11.
The program content centers on applications of the “Internet of Things,” or IoT, a system of interrelated computing devices, sensors, switches, mechanical and digital machines, cloud-based software and other elements that improve collection of critical data to improve workplace safety and increase efficiency and company profits. International Data Corporation (IDC) Worldwide Semiannual Internet of Things Spending Guide forecasts that by 2021 the Internet of Things (IoT) will surpass 25 billion devices and $1.1 trillion spent worldwide.
“The modern economy will require a workforce that has expertise in not only processes, but that can actively contribute to efficiencies, profitability and safety in more dynamic, technology-based communication network,” said Dr. Mike Dunphy, Dean, School of Arts & Sciences. “Companies and organizations will need people skilled in IoT tactics to help them remain competitive in a challenging and ever-advancing digital economy.”
Walsh University’s three-day interactive and practical immersion experience will be led by Walsh professors and experienced industry consultants. Program tools will be applicable to a wide range of industries as participants will use examples, exercises and applications directly from their day-to-day work activities. By the end of the three days, participants will have acquired an understanding of fundamental concepts of IoT, knowledge of how readily available electronics can collect useful data in real time and skills to cost-effectively create efficiencies within tasks and systems. The ability to use IoT tools creates job security for these workers as they increase company productivity and profitability.
No prior IoT or coding experience is required. Participants need only an Associate’s degree (or higher) or two years of work experience involving some form of networking, software coding, electronics, machining or related fields.
As part of the course, participants will receive IoT equipment (Raspberry Pi, sensors, etc.) and will have access to independent consultation with professors and industry IoT professionals. A certificate will be awarded to participants who successfully complete the course and assessments.
Employees working in Ohio may be eligible for tuition reimbursement through the state’s TechCred Program. ”We are thrilled to see that the state of Ohio is ahead of national trends and has the foresight to invest in our local communities by prioritizing funding for our workforce to gain the knowledge necessary to thrive in the economy of the future,” Dunphy said.
For more information, visit https://www.walsh.edu/skilledtechworkforce.html or contact Dr. Michael Dunphy at mdunphy@walsh.edu.