System iNetwork

December 4, 2008

IBM Teams with DeVry University to Train Next Enterprise Generation

IBM and DeVry University have launched a new Enterprise Computing track within DeVry University's Computer Information Systems (CIS) bachelor's degree program. The new track will incorporate multiple IBM systems technologies into a single degree program track. The move is not only designed to give students an understanding of IBM's systems but also to create enterprise-focused skills for some of the largest and systems-diverse businesses with modern--and complex--data centers.

DeVry University is a member of the IBM Academic Initiative program, and IBM says it is the first to incorporate multiple IBM Systems technologies into a single degree program track.

"IBM's clients and Business Partners are always looking for college graduates who are educated in enterprise systems concepts and technologies," notes Ross Mauri, general manager of IBM Power Systems. "DeVry University's courses will help students develop skills unique to scalable midrange and mainframe platforms. As an added feature, students will apply that knowledge by using IBM technology through the use of supported labs, case studies, and design projects."

If the Boomers Retire

"For DeVry University, the relationship with IBM enables us to continue to revitalize interest in technology careers by leveraging IBM's assets and providing a career path for our graduates," notes David Pauldine, president of DeVry University. "Within the next five to seven years, Baby Boomers will begin retiring, and DeVry University can help fill the pipeline with a pool of qualified applicants for IBM, its customers, and Business Partners. Our students will be educated on IBM's technology that currently runs the world's top 50 banks and 22 of the 25 top U.S. retailers."

DeVry believes that this new Enterprise Computing track that covers IBM systems will help set its students apart from other computer science graduates.

"The IBM Academic Initiative was established to address the need for maintaining a vibrant workforce and attracting new talent," says Terry Patane, director of IS recruiting for Costco Wholesale. "This approach creates a win-win-win relationship between IBM, key clients, and forward-thinking colleges and universities. Costco's recent teaming with IBM to host the Academic Initiative roundtable for DeVry University has opened new opportunities for Costco recruiting, resulting in what we hope becomes a mutually beneficial relationship."

As further evidence of the need for entry-level yet enterprise-savvy talent, IBM says the Large User Group (LUG), which is an organization of high-end IBM Power Systems IBM i-focused customers, supports the new Enterprise Computing track being offered by DeVry. The LUG has a closed membership of 100 or so of IBM's most privately vocal and active IBM i-running customers, and the LUG meets regularly with IBM to discuss its enterprise-focused needs. The LUG membership represents many diverse industries including retail, logistical services, financial services, real estate, insurance, and others, and a number of LUG members are included in the Fortune 500.

IBM Academic Initiative faculty members worldwide can access more than 1,000 other hardware, software, and services training resources at no cost at www.ibm.com/university/academicinitiative/. The DeVry Enterprise Computing track will launch in March 2009.

Posted by cmaxcer at December 4, 2008 9:07 AM