Graves County Economic Development (GCED) and the Mayfield/Graves County Area Technology Center (ATC) are collaborating on a new program, Power In Partnership, where career professionals come to the ATC and speak to students about their field. These professionals provide information about pay/benefits, advancement/progression, training needed after high school, and any crucial details that help them understand the field.
We had two presentations to the computer science students, Nick Johnson of FNB Bank's security team and Jeremy Blackford of DevSource.
ATC Principal Josh Heisner spoke about the speakers and expressed his gratitude for their participation.
“Computer science is a skill that can afford many potential career pathways. By presenting to our students about what they do, they are helping to show our students what their paths forward may look like. We are so thankful for Nick Johnson and Jeremy Blackford. for investing their time into our students. With the program wrapping up for the semester, we'd like to say thank you again to all the businesses that participated in this program.”
Over the past two weeks, we have distributed releases about the other ATC pathways: Accounting, Welding, Machine/Tool, Carpentry, and Electricity.
Nick Johnson, AVP/Security Officer, of FNB Bank discussed careers in both cybersecurity and information technology and how he uses computer science to protect the bank. He also discussed soft skills, such as leadership and working in a team environment.
“Few people are aware of how many opportunities there are for tech careers in business. Tech skills are critical for the security of banks and many other organizations. I am happy to help the up-and-coming computer scientists to see how the skills they are learning now can help them to find jobs right here in their hometown,” Johnson expressed.
Jeremy Blackford of DevSource Technology Solutions presented information about different soft skills that can help them move forward such as networking and psychology. He also talked about the different type of career paths you can choose from, programming to management of computer networks and how businesses use and need technology.
"Soft skills are key for both starting and advancing your career. Knowledge of cyber security, computer networks and software development are key areas in a technology career. DevSource Technology Solutions is glad to support the ATC with this program and help students understand how to move forward," Blackford explained.
This is the final pathway for the Power in Partnership program.
GCED President Jason Lemle commented on Power in Partnership and the computer science presentations.
“Computer science is a skill that makes significant impacts for businesses and communities. The ATC computer science pathway is crucial for training the professionals that will provide the cybersecurity of the future. Thank you to FNB Bank and DevSource Technology Solutions for investing into our students. We are grateful for all the businesses that participated in the Power In Partnership program to help our students succeed.”
About Graves County Economic Development
Graves County Economic Development began in 1981, becoming the driving force behind expansion and development opportunities in the community. It continues to foster strong relationships with existing businesses and attracts new industry to grow in Graves County. There are 44 industrial businesses in Graves County that employ 2,300 people in the community.
