General Information The American Association of Community Colleges (AACC) and the Microsoft Corporation have partnered to create a $10 million grant initiative to help community colleges develop and enhance information technology (IT) training programs that respond to 21st century needs. These training programs feature local business/industry partnerships, IT curriculum development, workforce development for disadvantaged populations, and faculty/staff development. Over a five-year period, 1998 to 2002, AACC and Microsoft have awarded cash grants, plus software and technical assistance, to 63 community colleges. Working Connections was designed to help increase the number of skilled IT workers needed to meet the demands of the growing and diverse technological industries. Working Connections addresses this shortage by providing focused training in IT careers and by bringing people into IT training programs. Working Connections Colleges are creating model IT programs designed with a career ladder approach, preparing students for entry-level jobs, and offering advanced training components for experienced workers. Students enrolled in these programs gain workplace experience and receive student support services. To ensure that these programs match the needs of college communities, Working Connections Colleges actively work with local businesses and community organizations. Working Connections has four primary objectives: Business/industry outreach - Create strong relationships with local business and industry, identifying their IT needs and tailoring programs to meet those needs. IT curriculum development - Develop or strengthen IT program content through (a) IT certificate and/or associate degree programs and (b) other certificate/associate degree programs with significant IT components. Workforce development - Deliver quality IT education and training, with a special focus on attracting and graduating people from disadvantaged populations. Faculty/staff development - Increase community college faculty and staff expertise in IT.
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