University assumes major workforce development role

Metropolitan State University has assumed a major new leadership role in workforce development as the lead partner in the Center for Strategic Information Technology and Security.

The Center unites the university’s expertise in computer science, forensics and management of information systems with the technical expertise of two Twin Cities-area colleges: Inver Hills Community College and Minneapolis Community and Technical College.

The Center’s combined expertise, curriculum, facilities and long-standing industry connections provide a comprehensive resource in IT education, training and applied research for the regional business community.

Through the Center’s "one-stop" strategy, a company can access customized training, continuing education or degree programs in computer science, software development, advanced networking, security and information assurance, computer forensics, information systems and IT management.

The Center is focusing new funding on areas of emerging technology that are both vital to the long-term competitiveness of companies and attractive to students who are seeking rewarding careers. Current efforts include a seven-course program in IP convergence technology, an industry-led open source application initiative, an innovative outreach program in security and computer forensics, and new ways of engaging students with industry-based projects.

The Center is also expanding outreach activities for high school students designed to promote career awareness and readiness with the intent of increasing diversity in the field and meeting the projected shortage of IT workers.

To help assure alignment with industry needs, the Center’s governance structure includes an active Industry Board of Advisors, representing companies from all major sectors of the Minnesota economy.

In addition to the traditional role of providing guidance and direction for educational programs, members of the board are currently engaged with the center as community faculty members, subject matter experts for curriculum development, internship sponsors, workforce development grant partners, co-sponsors of public symposia and employers of program graduates.

To further enhance opportunity for students, the Center’s Enterprise Partnership Program actively recruits additional industry professionals who are interested in helping reinforce the connection between higher education and the world of IT professionals. By the end of the year, the Center will have over 100 industry professionals enrolled in this partnership effort.

The Center was created with state funding through a competitive proposal process administered by the Minnesota State Colleges and Universities system. The proposals were submitted in response to an initiative from the governor’s office that was intended to create more focused expertise in areas critical to the Minnesota economy.

Other "Centers of Excellence" in healthcare, manufacturing and engineering were also funded at other Minnesota state universities.

All centers are working to become self-sustaining after a four-year initial funding period.

For further information, visit http://ia.metrostate.edu/csiss.