Local Tech Training Is Changing How Companies View Untapped Talent

Written by Christina Misali, Senior Leader of Talent Connections, Apprenti Cincinnati Program Director

You’ve already heard technology is booming. As of last summer, there were almost 35,000 tech job openings in our region. The State of Ohio has provided regional job outlooks, opens a new window (PDF) and, according to the report, 10 out of 14 computer and mathematical occupations are projected to have double-digit growth from 2016-2026. While earning certifications and coding skills seems like a no-brainer, what if you aren't sure where to get started, or you aren't in a position to take on additional debt to start this new career? In-Demand Jobs Week 2021, opens a new window is the perfect time to learn more about the opportunities available to you.

Plan Your Career in Tech

Apprenti Cincinnati, which started in Seattle and is operated locally out of the Cincinnati USA Regional Chamber, is igniting a new paradigm to develop untapped tech talent. Companies are eager to hire talent with raw skill and ability – rather than focusing on where you went to college or what your degree is in. Current apprentices include chefs, dishwashers, electricians, teachers, nonprofit managers, and more.

If you are ready for a new technology career based upon what you are capable of, not where you have been, Apprenti is the program for you. Apprenti's local program has already placed several people in local tech jobs, like Kait Matthey, who is now a software engineer at Kroger, opens a new window.

Changing Talent Pipelines

Apprenti takes the best our region has to offer – top training programs like MAX Technical, Tech Elevator, Per Scholas, Kable Academy, University of Cincinnati, and Cincinnati State – and combines their curriculum expertise with the time-tested model of apprenticeship. This focus on mentoring and development allows employees to partner with their employees and grow their skillset from early to mid-level.

Take the Apprenti Assessment

Are you interested in the program? Then, take the Apprenti program assessment, opens a new window, which includes questions in math, logic and critical thinking, and soft skills.

The assessment can be taken at any time on an internet-enabled device. You need approximately 30 minutes to complete the assessment. If you're looking for a quiet place to focus and take the assessment, book a study room at a CHPL library location. The Library recently reopened its study and meeting rooms to customers; all are WiFi-enabled.

Don't have a device to use? The Library offers desktop computers at all locations and laptop kiosks at select locations, all running the Microsoft Windows 10 operating system.

Prepare With CHPL’s Tech Learning Resources & Work-Ready Credentials

The Library has numerous events and online resources that can help you get more familiar with the tech world.

One of the most popular resources for tech skills is LinkedIn Learning, formerly Lynda.com. This resource, accessible anywhere with your library card, offers certificates that you can attach right to your LinkedIn profile. These training and certificates are available in SEO, network administration, and the programming languages Javascript, Python, and C++.

If you are an employer and looking for a way to leverage top training providers and access funding to support your workforce initiatives, learn more about Apprenti Cincinnati.