Workshop to focus on IT workforce's future

Area technology experts share their thoughts on the future of the Information Technology workforce at Tech Talk Live, a workshop featuring CompTIA president and CEO Todd Thibodeaux, from 8-11 a.m. March 10 in the Robert J. Miller Homeland Security Education Center, Room 1022, at the College of DuPage, 425 Fawell Blvd., Glen Ellyn.

Presented by COD Business Solutions, the workshop is designed for technology leaders, CIOs, CTOs, managers, administers, recruiters and students and is intended for those working in various IT roles, including systems, network, help desk, security, internetworking and technical certifications.

"Current research indicates that we are experiencing a significant skills gap in IT," said Barb DiMonte, Business Solutions program manager. "By recognizing changing needs and trends in the IT workforce, we can start to address this. Technology is reshaping businesses in our community and this event is a unique opportunity to get us around the table to network and talk through the challenges we face."

In his keynote presentation, Thibodeaux will discuss the importance of soft skills, the IT skills gap, IT workforce placement as a national challenge, and the importance of finding the right education. He is joined by Mark Griesbaum, Miguel Jimenez, Moira Hardek, Chris Gerrib and Jonathan McConnell, a panel of area business owners, CEOs and IT professionals specializing in IT strategy, vision development, leadership, education, gaming, user experience, recruiting and cybersecurity. Click here for more information on all Tech Talk presenters.

Panelists will field an open discussion about the next generation of Information Technology professionals, including what skills employers find vital and how today's students and professionals can attain the training, education and certifications to meet employers' needs and advance their own career.

Registration is required. The cost of the workshop is $30 for professionals and each registration sponsors a COD student to attend free. For more information and to register, visit http://www.cod.edu/academics/conted/business/tech_talk.aspx.