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| Making the Move into Information Technology |
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| Author : Chris Mitchell, Information Technology Institute Managing Director
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There�s no shortage of people who want to make a career change into information technology. It�s a dynamic sector with a myriad of well paid jobs, ongoing developments and new innovations and the opportunity to work in most countries of the world.
But people who want to make the change into IT are faced with a dilemma. Prospective employers not only demand appropriate IT qualifications and skills, but also work experience. It�s a Catch 22.
Information Technology Institute was set up specifically to overcome this challenge. Our nine-month Graduate Diploma is targeted at non-IT graduates who want to move into the information technology sector.
It�s practical, intensive and very employment orientated.
Students receive three months� intensive training at the Auckland or Taupo campus and then up to six months working on a real commercial project for a business � an ITI employer project partner. Students are mentored during the project (and most receive funding) and are learning skills not only in IT, but also in areas like project management.
During the commercial project students and employers can assess each other and in many cases there�s the offer of a permanent position. On graduation our students have skills, qualifications and experience - a New Zealand Diploma in IT and a portfolio of work they can show prospective employers or use as the foundation for establishing their own business.
ITI is a good example of the Government�s innovation policy in action. It�s taking a new, innovative approach to education, ensuring that businesses are getting people with the skills and experience they want.
It�s an approach that�s finding favour with the business community, with a very high calibre of ITI employer project partners � a sample includes CWA New Media, the New Zealand Retailers Association, Comacc Ltd, Alchemy Group, Paper Tiger, Cyber Elves and Clubmate.
ITI students are graduates or have backgrounds in a broad range of disciplines � law, commerce, marketing, science. Some have IT experience or qualifications but come to ITI to upskill or to help them find a better job. Students are only accepted onto the programme if they can demonstrate they have the aptitude and the ability to undertake the intensive training. But if they do, the rewards will follow.
Information Technology Institute
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