Advisory committee helps SPC connect with local needs

IT advisory committee
College of Computer and Information Technology, Technology Jobs

St. Petersburg College’s Technology Advisory Committee helps students succeed by working with the college to maintain an industry-centered curriculum that keeps up with the rapid changes in today’s IT industry.

The advisory committee is made of professionals within the community that provide oversight and ensure our programs remain relevant and effective. Through these committees, SPC’s programs are effective in meeting the professional and employment needs of our area.

In addition to the input from each advisory committee, SPC professors attend professional conferences, and the college hosts employer events and job fairs that help SPC connect with industry leaders.

Meet Chris Paul – Melitta North America

Chris Paul is the manager of information systems for Melitta North America, a distributor of
coffee, filters and non-electric coffee systems headquartered in Clearwater. He also chairs the Advisory Committee for SPC’s College of Computer and Information Technology. In that role, Chris enjoys sharing his experience and what he has learned in his career.

“Quite honestly, I see it as a professional responsibility,” Chris said. “I mean you’ve learned
things. You now have skills and experiences that you can use to guide students in their own career paths.”

He also sees the benefits to the local companies that serve on an advisory committee.

“Our companies also benefit in that local industry also has the availability of talent they need to keep their doors open,” Chris added.

Meet Mayra Harley – Reservec, Inc.

Mayra Harley is the CEO of Reservec Inc., a total management and online reservation system for the recreation industry.  Also a member of the Advisory Committee for SPC’s College of Computer and Information Technology, Harley and other advisory board members help provide strategies and guidance to help SPC stay connected to today’s IT workforce needs.

https://youtu.be/5r2hDttNIso

“You help the college guide their academic efforts,” Harley said. “And at the same time you help a student or a new professional in the community get their first job and that is a great feeling in and of itself.”

Advisory committee helps students succeed

SPC’s technology Advisory Committee meets twice a year to keep the focus on students by helping develop the academic programs necessary for their success in the workplace. Committee members also assist in finding the right contacts within the employment community so students keep the end goal in mind – their careers.

For example, the technology program often hosts career events, where local employers visit the college to discuss career and internship options with students.

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