Clark State College has partnered with The Rosie Project, a non-profit dedicated to helping military spouses overcome career barriers, to create a program that provides military spouses in the region with skills and certifications needed to thrive in the field of information technology. The six-month academic program is open to military spouses of Active-Duty, Reserve, National Guard and Veterans, at no cost to spouses, at the Clark State Springfield campus.
The program focuses on accessibility by requiring no technology experience, previous degree or course prerequisites; providing computers and assisting with childcare for children under the age of six. Through the program, participants will earn industry-recognized IT certifications; connect with potential employers in cybersecurity, network administration and cloud computing; and interview for full-time government civilian positions within the Department of Defense and the local Aerospace and Defense Community.
“This collaboration is a vital step in expanding career opportunities and professional development for military spouses, as well as meeting local, state and national workforce needs,” said Toni Overholser, Clark State vice president of advancement and outreach. “We recognize the sacrifices military families make in service to our nation, often including moving for new assignments. This partnership allows Clark State to assist military spouses in accessing career training and resources that are transportable. They gain skills and experience that are highly sought-after in the Department of Defense and field of information technology, and the certifications students earn are accepted military-wide, so spouses can transfer between military bases with relative ease. As a military spouse, I was personally affected by these challenges and I’m proud that Clark State and The Rosie Project offer so many resources to support our military families.”
Named nation’s number one Military-Friendly School and Military Spouse-Friendly School by VIQTORY, Clark State has also ensured the program’s content is specifically tailored to match career opportunities available near military installations like Wright-Patterson Air Force Base and Ohio Air National Guard, ensuring that military spouses can gain skills directly aligned with the local job market. In addition to the partnership with The Rosie Project, Clark State offers a 50 percent reduced tuition for all Active-Duty, Reserve and Guard members, as well as their spouses.
“The opportunity to partner with Clark State College helps us advance our mission of empowering military spouses to build fulfilling, long-term careers,” said Aniza Brown, CEO of The Rosie Project. “Together, we are creating pathways to success while also ensuring military families have access to the resources and support they need to thrive.”
For more information or to apply, visit rosieprojectwww.rosieproject.org.org. Classes for this program begin March 17.