Training the Next Generation

posted on: April 2, 2007

Today's post is written by John Fallon, Director of Application Development here at Solid Cactus. John along with Miguel Younger spent some time in the classroom a few days ago, and this is their story...

Miguel Younger and I were at LCCC recently to talk with the kids in the Computer Information Systems (CIS) Club. The reason for our meeting was to tell them about different options available in computer and programming and e-commerce jobs. After all, we're working in it! It was great to reassure them of just what a wide and interconnected world it is out there for people who understand computers.

Simply put, your future is not just "programming." In the business world so much of what we do meshes together. There is data base management, software design and business and custom applications. Matching or adapting programs is crucial to giving our clients what they want and making their businesses work better. That's the modern trend in e-commerce. We don't force the clients to fit their business models to the software available; we adapt the software to the clients' needs.

The students at LCCC were amazed at the different directions they can go. Miguel and I both tried to impress on them that they're not limited in their potential to grow with our industry.

Personally I love these opportunities to help students because I used to be a teacher. Their energy and excitement are contagious. My favorite part was when students understood new concepts for the first time. These kids were no exception. They realize there is a big, wide techno-world out there and that they're going to be a part of it. They can't wait. The more confident they are about the future, the better for all of us!