Computer, engineering programs at Capitol a draw for area employers

Capitol Technology University’s programs in computer and engineering fields are a big draw for employers in the region, according to representatives of companies and organizations attending the university’s Career Conference on Tuesday (September 26).

Also mentioned was the hands-on experience gained by Capitol students are part of their education, as well as the university’s commitment to working with area employers in order to tailor programs to emerging needs.

“We’re looking for students with technology backgrounds – engineering, computer science,” said Kalia Kinser, HR and talent manager at Alertus. “The faculty here does a great job connecting with employers to see what they can do to make sure the students are hire-ready, and that they graduate with the tools that employers in the area are looking for.

Kinser and representatives of more than 20 business and organizations were on campus Tuesday for the twice-yearly conference, which includes not only a job fair but a series of presentations and workshops designed to help prepare students for entry into their careers. Capping the event was a keynote address by Hank Tseu, a senior ground software architect at OneWeb, who briefed Capitol students on the company’s mission of providing global broadband access via a constellation of hundreds of satellites.

Faculty also make use of the Career Conference to consult with participating employers about particular skills and areas of knowledge they would like to see emphasized in academic programs. “The Career Conference is a great opportunity to build that relationship,” Kinser notes.

Stacy Abrams is senior employment specialist at the Space Telescope Science Institute (STScI), which has a central role in NASA’s history-making James Webb Space Telescope mission. “We’re looking for people with backgrounds in software development, systems engineering, flight operations,” she said. “We have hired a lot of Capitol Technology University students into our flight operations teams, but we also have a significant need for computer scientists.”

Capitol is of particular interest because of the programs offered at the university. “It’s a really good fit,” she said.

STScI has established two Capitol Technology University internships, lasting two to three semesters. In addition, summer internships are available, Abrams said.

Markus Mabson was at the fair to represent Sealing Technologies, a Columbia-based government contractor. “We’re looking to hire students who can bring network solutions, including network perimeter defense and network management.”

The practical, hands-on emphasis of Capitol’s programs is a big draw from Sealing, Mabson said.

“We love the fact that Capitol students come with practical experience,” he said. “As a result of that experience, you come here ready to work, out of the box.”