Computer Science Academy hosts Cybersecurity speaker today at 3:15 p.m.

Come join LLCC’s Computer Science Academy and the World Affairs Council of Central Illinois for an enlightening keynote titled “Security in the Cyber Age: An Introduction to Policy and Technology.” Dr. Derek Reveron, chair of the Naval War College National Security Affairs Department, will delve into the workings of cyberspace, dissect how both state and non-state actors capitalize on its vulnerabilities and offer strategies for enhancing cybersecurity.

Thursday, March 7
3:15-4:40 p.m.
Menard Hall, Room 2202

Computer Science Academy hosts Cybersecurity speaker

Come join LLCC’s Computer Science Academy and the World Affairs Council of Central Illinois for an enlightening keynote titled “Security in the Cyber Age: An Introduction to Policy and Technology.” Dr. Derek Reveron, chair of the Naval War College National Security Affairs Department, will delve into the workings of cyberspace, dissect how both state and non-state actors capitalize on its vulnerabilities and offer strategies for enhancing cybersecurity.

Thursday, March 7
3:15-4:40 p.m.
Menard Hall, Room 2202

LLCC will host Rube Goldberg Competition for fifth graders

“Outlandish machines” designed by area fifth graders will be on display as LLCC hosts the 17th annual Springfield Area Fifth Grade Rube Goldberg Competition on Saturday, March 2. The event will take place from 9 a.m. to approximately 3 p.m. in the Student Union. There is no admission fee, and the public is invited to attend.

This year’s competition involves building a Rube Goldberg that must insert and remove a piece of toast from a toaster through at least 10 different steps. A Rube Goldberg device, such as the board game “Mousetrap,” is an elaborate apparatus designed to complete a certain task through a number of complex steps.

Area fifth graders are currently developing their own unique Rube Goldberg devices for this year’s competition. They receive assistance from engineer volunteers who visit classes and provide instruction on machines and engineering in general, along with suggestions for their Rube Goldberg device. The purpose of this event is to introduce children to the idea of pursuing a career in engineering or a STEM-related field.

This year, there will be teams participating from the following schools: Black Hawk Elementary, Graham Elementary, Morrisonville Elementary, Our Savior Lutheran, Riverton Middle, Rochester Intermediate, Southern View Elementary, Springfield Christian, Trinity Lutheran, and Beckemeyer Elementary School in Hillsboro.

Last year’s task entailed building a Rube Goldberg that would “move a rocket to a launch pad.” Sarah Eyth’s fifth grade class from Our Savior Lutheran, with engineer volunteers Marty Maletich and Phil Raftis from HLR Engineering, took home the top prize locally and at the Engineering Open House at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign.

DoIT Trainees take flight

The future of tech in central Illinois is taking off, and we couldn’t be more excited! On Jan. 17, LLCC welcomed the first-ever DoIT cohort to orientation, marking a new chapter in providing our community with the skilled tech workforce it needs to compete and thrive in the digital age. We are proud to be part of this groundbreaking initiative and look forward to what this vibrant group of DoIT trainees will accomplish.

These exceptional students met:

  • Dr. Carmen Allen, professor of computer science, sharing her passion for innovation and paving the way for future tech titans. ‍
  • Julie Brennan, assistant professor and DoIT liaison, building bridges between academia and industry, shaping a future where tech serves everyone.
  • Dr. Amanda Turner, director of student success, equipping our students with the tools and skills they need to thrive in the ever-evolving tech landscape. ️
  • Julie Clevenger, executive director, LLCC Center for Academic Success, providing crucial support and guidance, ensuring each student reaches their full potential.

Many thanks to Dr. Laurel Bretz, AVP, continuing, corporate and professional education, for her tireless efforts in coordinating this collaboration.

In addition, Ken Haycraft, director of learning and development – human resources at DoIT, played a key role in coordinating efforts. His dedication and leadership were instrumental in bringing this program to fruition.

CSA CompTIA presentation

On Friday, Dec. 1, the LLCC Computer Science Academy (CSA) hosted an event that featured guest speaker Karen Martin, who offered insights on the top Illinois employers, wages and tech job postings with discussion around pathways into the technology field. Attendees had the opportunity to learn about how courses at LLCC lead to CompTIA certifications and prepare students for the IT workforce.

LLCC students, faculty and staff listening to Karen Martin presenting on the future of CompTIA.

CompTIA Presentation today, 1-2 p.m.

You’re invited to join the LLCC Computer Science Academy (CSA) for a CompTIA presentation today, Dec. 1, 1-2 p.m. in the Kreher Agriculture Center. Learn how LLCC courses that lead to CompTIA certifications help prepare students for the IT workforce.

CompTIA representative Karen Martin will be providing information on the top Illinois employers, wages and tech job postings as well as common pathways into the technology field.

CompTIA Presentation Dec. 1

You’re invited to join the LLCC Computer Science Academy (CSA) for a CompTIA presentation on Friday, Dec. 1, 1-2 p.m. in the Kreher Agriculture Center. Learn how LLCC courses that lead to CompTIA certifications help prepare students for the IT workforce.

CompTIA representative Karen Martin will be providing information on the top Illinois employers, wages and tech job postings as well as common pathways into the technology field.

DoIT recruitment event today on Springfield campus

The Illinois Department of Innovation & Technology (DoIT) has launched a paid trainee program to build a pipeline of tech talent to meet the growing demand for skilled professionals and diversify the agency’s workforce. Cohorts will begin with initial classes of 20 participants, with additional cohorts launching as needed. LLCC developed the curriculum for participants and will host a training site in Springfield. A recruitment event is being held today, Nov. 7, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. in the Kreher Agriculture Center at LLCC in Springfield.

LLCC partners with DoIT to develop tech talent pipeline

Gov. Pritzker announces paid tech trainee program to diversify and strengthen state’s workforce

Josh Collins, Theresa Carlton, Governor Pritzker, Laurel Bretz and Dr. Carmen Allen.
Joined by educators, lawmakers and advocates, Governor JB Pritzker announced yesterday that the Illinois Department of Innovation & Technology (DoIT) is launching a paid trainee program to build a pipeline of tech talent to meet the growing demand for skilled professionals and diversify the agency’s workforce.

“As Governor, I’m determined to make sure every Illinoisan can access good jobs — the kind that pays the bills and also supports the dreams of their families,” said Governor JB Pritzker. “We are launching an IT trainee program to build a pipeline of tech talent to meet the growing demand for skilled tech professionals and diversify our state’s tech workforce. From creation to consumption, Illinois is paving the way in the digital economy for all our residents.”

Trainees will receive a minimum yearly salary of $54,000 from DoIT while pursuing tracks in one of five high-need concentration areas: cybersecurity, networking, coding and database, end user computing and enterprise infrastructure. Additional tracks will be added as the program grows. Trainees will also receive formal mentoring from current DoIT employees and be offered a full-time job with DoIT after completing the program and meeting its benchmarks.

Cohorts will begin with initial classes of 20 participants, with additional cohorts launching as needed. Lincoln Land Community College developed the curriculum for participants and will host a training site in Springfield. DoIT is also pleased to partner with City Colleges of Chicago to provide a Chicago-based training site and expand the program’s reach.

Applicants should apply online at DoIT.illinois.gov. There will be two recruitment events:

  • Friday, Nov. 3 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at City College’s Harold Washington campus in Chicago
  • Tuesday, Nov. 7 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. in the Kreher Agriculture Center at Lincoln Land Community College in Springfield.

Prospective applicants can email DoIT.Recruitment@illinois.gov with application questions.

“We are thrilled to collaborate with Governor Pritzker, City Colleges of Chicago and Lincoln Land Community College on this initiative,” said Illinois Department of Innovation & Technology Acting Secretary and State CIO Sanjay Gupta. “By investing in the development of a strong talent pipeline, we are not only shaping the future of our workforce, but also driving innovation and growth in our community. This partnership is a testament to our unwavering commitment to diversity and nurturing local tech talent, propelling our state to new heights of success.”

“Lincoln Land Community College is a leader in training individuals for vital careers in the technology and cybersecurity fields,” said Dr. Charlotte Warren, President of LLCC. “We’re proud to serve students with this innovative partnership that will help DoIT grow their own workforce, and we applaud DoIT and the Governor’s administration for recognizing the workforce training programs provided by community colleges.”

“Our thanks go to Governor Pritzker and the Illinois Department of Innovation and Technology for leading the creation of a new pipeline between community colleges and public sector technology careers,” said Chancellor Juan Salgado. “This collaboration will complement City Colleges’ growing suite of technology programs that offer our students relevant skills, hands-on experience, and a pathway into Illinois’ dynamic tech industry.”

DoIT will soon be accepting applications for the inaugural class of the trainee program. The program was designed to make the broadest possible group of individuals eligible to participate.

For additional information on the trainee program, applicant criteria and upcoming hiring events, email DoIT.Recruitment@illinois.gov.

Dr. Carmen Allen and Julie Brennan attend CBExchange conference

C-BEM Competency-based Education Network. CBExchange. Collage of photos of Dr. Allen and Brennan at conference along with theme Power to the Learner.Last week, Dr. Carmen Allen, professor, computer science, and Julie Brennan, assistant professor, computer science, attended a three-day CBExchange conference on competency-based education (CBE). CBE is a personalized approach to learning that allows students to progress at their own pace and master competencies before moving on to new material.

Dr. Allen and Brennan are excited to share what they learned at the conference with their colleagues during Professional Development Day on Nov. 7. They will discussing how to use CBE and regular and substantive interaction (RSI) to improve student learning and engagement.

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