Bay area college students put their tech-skills to the test this week at Tech Data’s third annual Exploratory Lab Boot Camp.
The camp focused on the future, offering programs that teach the skills that are needed by businesses and allow students to network with local technology companies.
- Boot camp encourages college students to focus on tech jobs
- 84 percent of students from previous years have landed jobs/internships in tech industry
"I've learned everything from cyber security, to databases, to analytics and even some accounting stuff," student David Gibson said.
The students were introduced to aspects of the tech industry that some never knew existed.
The camp's curriculum was created through a partnership with Tech Data, Valpak, Agile Thought, and Tampa Bay Technology Forum.
"It's been really interesting for them to be exposed to integrative marketing and business planning and understanding how to influence others to get on board with your ideas," said Angie Beltz, VP of Cisco Solutions Group.
The program has a proven success rate. Approximately 84 percent of students who have participated in the past have gone on to land jobs or internships in the tech industry.
Students in the 2016 camp said they’ve had the opportunity to network and gain confidence.
"It's helped to get over that fear of talking to someone," said Gibson, "getting yourself out of your comfort zone and making those connections."
Want more information on the Exploratory Lab Boot Camp? Click here.