Most employers who go to job fairs are looking for people with very specific skills in programming, network operations and management of computer services. Look at the companies that will be attending the job fairs they're usually listed in the newspapers ads. Many of these companies have their own Web sites that may spell out what they're looking for. So can low-income people. State employment offices can provide details.
New programs are in the works to create more loans and aid for technology training.
Maryland state officials will ask the legislation next year to offer tuition assistance to students who achieve high grades in tech courses and then agree to work for a Maryland company for several years after graduation. And the Northern Virginia Technology Council hopes to persuade its member companies to help pay for training if students agree to come to work for them.