For people interested in launching a career in the burgeoning and lucrative computer industry, the Durham Management Centre at Durham College offers an intensive, fast-track certificate program.
Called Business Information Systems, the full-time, seven-month program will train people for ground-floor computer positions such as a junior systems analyst or junior programmer. To apply, students must have their Grade 12 diploma or equivalent, be proficient in written and oral English, possess strong communications and problem-solving skills and be self starters. As well, applicants must submit a resume and undergo an evaluation by the centre.
The program begins on June 30 and again on September 15. Small groups of no more than 15 students attend lectures and gain plenty of hands-on laboratory experience. Students attend classes for five hours a day, Monday to Friday.
During the program students learn about a variety of applications including operating systems, systems management, technical support, database management and programming techniques. In addition, participants will prepare a resume and be assisted with up-to-date interview techniques.
"The program gives people a very wide knowledge in the computer-related field, enabling them to go off in several different areas such as database management, programming, computer security or technical support," says Melody Brewer-Mailer, Director of Business and Industry Development Services at Durham College.
A free information session will be held at 10 am and again at 7 pm on June 17 at the Skills Training Centre, 1610 Champlain Avenue (highway 401 and Thickson Road) in Whitby.
Ms. Brewer-Mailer says the program is ideal for anyone who meets the basic requirements and who seeks a challenging career with a future.
According to a recent article in the Globe and Mail, employers coast-to-coast have a total of 15,000 vacancies for computer programmers alone, and the shortage could escalate to 20,000 in just three years. Employers who can't find the qualified people they need, may recruit outside Canada, or relocate part or all of their operations outside the country. If these companies do leave, a number of high-paying jobs will also disappear.
To attend one of the information sessions or to learn more about the program, please call Scott Shepperdson at (905) 721-3343.
Media Contacts:
Alice Lytwynchuk
Public Relations
(905) 721-2000 ext. 2117
Disclaimer: The contact information provided in archived news releases was current at the release date. For current information please contact Communications and Marketing.