By Bernie Patterson, chancellor
I’ve used this space in the past to applaud strong partnerships the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point has with businesses and organizations throughout the region. My appreciation again goes to several community leaders, who recognize the key role our university and other educational institutions play in preparing individuals for meaningful careers and leadership roles in central Wisconsin.
Most recently, business leaders have stepped up to help address the demand for information technology workers.
IT-related jobs are projected to grow by more than 12 percent in central Wisconsin by 2018. Tim Krause, chair of our Computing and New Media Technologies Department, says UW-Stevens Point cannot turn out graduates fast enough to meet the demand.
Numerous regional business leaders have formed the Central Wisconsin Information Technology Alliance (CWITA). Its mission is to attract, train and retain an exceptional information technology workforce. About 40 companies attended an inaugural meeting in June 2015, according to Cliff King, chief executive officer of Skyward, Inc., who initiated it. They set up workgroups for K-12, higher education and community development, aimed at strengthening IT workforce and career opportunities. Partners include the North Central Wisconsin Workforce Development Board and UW-Stevens Point’s economic development coordinator.
MORE
Skip to main content
