He started an after-school computer club at his stepson's school in Cincinnati. About a dozen interested students showed up once a week to learn basic trouble-shooting skills, understand the basic parts of a computer, and how to make patch cables. The Chester County Information Technology Workforce Group of West Chester, Pennsylvania, also was declared a TechieTeam winner. The group, formed one and a half years ago in response to the shortage of qualified workers in the area, is made up of about 14 local technology companies and community organizations. Chester County companies will host workshops in Javascript, e-business and computer consulting for 150 students today.
Students learn about the job opportunities available, and get help developing interviewing skills.
The IT Workforce Group is also sponsoring a student Web design contest. Project SOAR, an organization that provides free computers to families that cannot afford them, is coordinating the event. Industry volunteers will either serve on a panel to answer student questions about technology careers, or help refurbish donated computers. CNET is sending a number of volunteers to the Oakland event. Tech Corps , a nonprofit that pairs industry volunteers with schools that need tech support, also is sponsoring Techies Day.