DETROIT — “IT in the D,” a partnership between the leading technology companies in downtown Detroit and local universities, Tuesday announced its inaugural program designed to transition students from the classroom to the workplace through real world IT projects, mentorship, and training. IT in the D’s mission is to provide continued education and work experience for IT professionals as they advance their technology careers.
The program, which will run through August, includes participation from Wayne County Community College District (WCCCD), Wayne State University, Washtenaw Community College, the Michigan Economic Development Council (MEDC), and downtown Detroit-based companies: Compuware Ventures, Quicken Loans, GalaxE.Solutions, Marketing Associates, and Fathead. The onsite training will take place at these companies’ offices in the city.
“This program is a win for the city of Detroit, the students and the technology companies looking for Detroit talent,” said Linglong He, chief information officer of Quicken Loans. “By connecting students with business leaders in the tech industry, we’re creating a culture that allows Detroit to continue transforming into a technology hub.”
Approximately 35 volunteer trainers and mentors from the partner companies will work with 32 students from the first class, ensuring a personal and valuable experience. The students will learn in a working environment using technologies such as .Net, Java, SQL Server, MY SQL, and PHP. They will attend two hour classes twice a week, and work on projects as needed.
The first class has already been selected by the partner schools. For future registration and more information contact ITintheD@ITinDetroit.org.
