In the latest HCI Webinar, Dr. Jonathan H. Westover talks with Jennifer Carlson about the need for technology apprenticeship programs. Below is a summary of the main points from their conversation! Check out the full episode and let us know what you think!
Watch the episode here:
Quick Recap
Jonathan and Jennifer Carlson discussed the benefits of technology apprenticeship programs, with Jennifer Carlson emphasizing their hybrid training model and their potential to address skills gaps and improve access to tech talent for underrepresented groups. Jonathan agreed, highlighting how these programs could provide a more practical and accessible educational experience. They also discussed the concept of apprenticeships for those further along in life and unable to return to school, with Jennifer Carlson explaining how employers match the skills of the apprentices to their needs and emphasizing the significant increase in salary for apprentices.
Technology Apprenticeship Programs Benefits Discussed
Jonathan H. Westover and Jennifer Carlson discussed the importance and benefits of technology apprenticeship programs. Jennifer Carlson, who is the co-founder and executive director of a nonprofit organization that focuses on creating alternative pathways to access tech talent, explained that apprenticeship programs offer a hybrid training model that combines classroom learning and hands-on skills. She emphasized that these programs can provide a solution to the skills gaps in the labor economy, particularly for underrepresented groups who may not have access to traditional higher education. Jonathan agreed, highlighting that apprenticeship programs could help universities better serve diverse populations by providing a more practical and accessible educational experience.
Tech Apprenticeships: A Matchmaking Solution
Jennifer Carlson and Jonathan H. Westover discussed the concept of technology apprenticeships, particularly for those further along in life and unable to return to school. Jennifer Carlson explained that the apprentices take a basic skills assessment to determine their competency level in math, logic, and critical thinking. Employers then post jobs, committing to an apprenticeship to train employees in tech skills. Jennifer Carlson emphasized that the apprenticeships are facilitated by "Eharmony for tech," where employers match the skills of the apprentices to their needs. Jennifer Carlson also highlighted the significant increase in salary for apprentices, going from just under $40,000 to $85,000 in 18 months. Jonathan praised the concept as a way to meet skills gaps and diversify the workforce.
Listen to the webinar here:
