Technology First Engages MVCTC IT Students in Roundtable Discussion

09/12/2024

Englewood, OH – The Miami Valley Career Technology Center (MVCTC) recently welcomed Dayton-area IT leaders from Technology First, a renowned trade association established in 1997, for a roundtable discussion with students from its Computer Coding & Web Applications, Computer Networking Cybersecurity, Computer Repair & Technical Support, and Drones & GIS Technologies programs. The event provided a unique opportunity for students to engage with top technology professionals from the Dayton region, fostering connections and learning from industry leaders.

Technology First has long been recognized as a leading organization for technologists in the Dayton region, offering a dynamic community where tech professionals can collaborate, grow, and drive the industry forward. The organization has consistently been at the forefront of nurturing innovation, offering a platform where thought leaders can engage with rising talent.

During their visit to MVCTC, Technology First members toured the state-of-the-art Computer Science Labs and classrooms before hosting a series of roundtable discussions. The roundtable panel featured prominent IT leaders, including:

  • Matthew Coatney (Thompson Hine, LLC)
  • Clayton Connor (ATC)
  • Bob Gutendorf (Sinclair)
  • Bill Magnuson (NexusBlue)
  • Jon Rike (City of Dayton)
  • Ashima Sharma (Ayuka Consulting)

The discussion was facilitated by Kalen Howell from ChemStation, and it covered a range of topics crucial for emerging IT professionals. Topics included:

  • The Big Decision: Selecting a Career Path
  • The Importance of Networking, Mentors & Soft Skills in Tech Careers
  • The Power of Soft Skills: Bridging the Gap in IT Careers
  • A Skillset for the Future of Tech: Preparing for Tomorrow’s Challenges
  • Technological Advancements That Will Change the World
  • Why Government IT is the Place to Be
  • The Changing Landscape of IT Jobs & Informed Decision-Making Through Data

These topics provided MVCTC students with a wealth of insights, from career planning and the importance of soft skills to the evolving technological landscape and the opportunities presented by government IT.

About Technology First

Technology First is a leading trade association in the Dayton region, connecting IT professionals and organizations since 1997. The organization promotes networking, education, and collaboration across the tech community to drive innovation and success in the industry.

About MVCTC

The Miami Valley Career Technology Center (MVCTC) offers premier career-focused education for high school students and adults, preparing them for the 21st-century workforce. With 43 career-technical programs, MVCTC is dedicated to providing advanced employment preparation for youth, adults, and the communities of southwestern Ohio.