Ohio IT Skills Blog

Columbus State - New Center for Workforce Development

Had a delightful conversation today with Columbus State Community College's new B&I Director Cheryl Hay, early-ICDL adopter Dave Watts, and Jeff Spain about the potential of building a computing skills program around ICDL.  Cheryl is about 4 weeks new with the organization, but quite receptive to the program.  Dave and Jeff have long been supporters.  The question here - as with many locations - is not whether to pursue the program, but how.  Cheryl made some excellent suggestions on which we will follow up in the next few weeks.

Meanwhile, Dave took me on a tour of the new Center for Workforce Development at Columbus State.  What a magnificent facility!  It's been open for only a couple of months (are you getting the feeling that CSCC has been going through a time of great change?), but it feels very comfortable.  Dave has installed some innovative computer labs for networking, security and other programs, and the building is just generally well-designed for its functions.  Very open feeling, but at the same time very comfortable work spaces.  Dave and the team that have waited so patiently for this facility to open (you all were patient, right?<g>) are to be congratulated. 

And I must point out this remains my view in spite of the parking ticket I acquired.  I would suggest that the next construction project for CSCC might be a 60-story parking garage.  <g>

(-- originally posted by Rich Bowers, Coordinator, Ohio IT Clearinghouse)

New banner promotes TechReady

It is so important to get a clear message across - and in a conference or trade show environment that can be a real challenge.  Now we will be helped by a new banner that clearly touts the advantages of TechReady, the inexpensive, easy-to-administer test - based on the ICDL 7-module structure - that offers a quick overview of an individual's skill level in each of the key areas.

This thing is huge! - note the picture of the banner conversing with a much shorter potted plant - and will be hard for even the most distracted booth-walker to miss!

The banner reads:
Q: How do you know if your employes have the basic computing skills to grow your enterprise?

A: TechReady

We have flyers and other explanatory material about the program if you are interested.  Just  email, or call the ICDL HelpLine at 614-388-8886.

(-- originally posted by Rich Bowers, Coordinator, Ohio IT Clearinghouse)

First Dorkbot Columbus Event Announced!

October 17 will be a red-letter day for the central Ohio area - as the first Dorkbot Columbus event kicks off a season of get-togethers of "people doing strange things with electricity!"

Ken Rinaldo, professor of Art and Technology at Ohio State University, will present a report of his sabbatical work, at the Wexner Center at 6pm on Tuesday October 17.  That focus will take us on a tour of the world of Autoelematic Spiders - a project on which Rinaldo has been working.  It promises to be a great time - the Dorkbot Columbus Web site is now open for business, and contains all the details you need to attend - plus some information about future events.

Dorkbot groups are either opened or planned for Dayton and the Cleveland areas.  Check the main Dorkbot site for other locations around the world.

(-- originally posted by Rich Bowers, Coordinator, Ohio IT Clearinghouse)