DSM Employment Ready with Mike Hoffman + Curt Buhr

Mike Hoffman, executive director of continuing education at Des Moines Area Community College (DMACC), and Curt Buhr, coordinator at DMACC, discuss new programming opportunities amid the COVID-19 pandemic.

Mike says that people are looking for IT opportunities within Greater Des Moines (DSM). DMACC has pivoted to offer more online certification and IT opportunities. The two explain how now is the perfect time to look into advancing your skills in the latest episode for the Greater Des Moines Partnership’s DSM Employment Ready podcast.

New Programming

DMACC now offers both Certified Scrum Master Class (CSM) and Certified Scrum Product Owner (CSPO) classes online via Zoom. Many of the skills taught in scrum classes are transferable to other industry jobs, not just IT. Curt says whether you’re in the IT field directly or indirectly communicating with the IT department, there is a project management philosophy within the programs that offers the opportunity to expand your knowledge in ways that will carry you through your future career.

DMACC will offer a few online classes beginning at the end of May for IT students and professionals.  One of those classes is Python. The course allows students to write programs and develop applications using Python programming.

Finally, Curt touches on the Microsoft Azure class DMACC is offering that focuses on big data and utilizing that platform.

Recently, DMACC has also received renewed interest in its Facebook Digital Marketing certificate. Mike says this is an opportunity for small business owners to get into digital marketing. It’s supported by Facebook, and the company will pay $250 of the $300 tuition. DMACC will continue to offer that certification online.

Learn more about all of DMACC’s continuing education opportunities.

Iowa State University Collaboration

DMACC has recently worked with Doug Jacobson of Iowa State University on a video series tied to cybersecurity. For those who are just beginning to work from home, these videos offer insight into keeping information safe. The series is called “You Work at Home, Now What?” and is available at iowacyberhub.org.

Quick Start Careers

As part of DMACC’s Quick Start Careers, students can gain skills to start or restart careers in numerous industries. This program offers these skills in just one year or less for an affordable price. Examples of Quick Start Careers include acquiring a building trades diploma or welding certificate.

Listen to the entire podcast: DSM Employment Ready - Mike Hoffman and Curt Buhr

The DSM Employment Ready podcast is brought to you by the Greater Des Moines Partnership. The podcast features insight into employment in Greater Des Moines (DSM) during the COVID-19 crisis. To listen to more Partnership podcasts, click here.

The DSM Employment Ready podcast series has concluded. For more talent development information and conversations, visit the Future Ready DSM podcast.