Marion Technical College hosts Ohio Tech Day for area students

Faculty Joe Woughter presents to a group of students.

Marion Technical College was proud to host students from Tri-Rivers Career Center and Delaware Area Career Center for them to get hands-on experience in these fields during CyberSecurity Awareness Month.

Dozens of students tried their hands at local projects including programming Raspberry Pi, a computer the size of a credit card, and Hack the Box, an online platform where students can test their skills with cyber security. During Cybersecurity Awareness Month, the need for more security to deter hackers, stop phishing scams and protect financial and personal data is very apparent.

“I was thrilled that students could get hands-on, real-world experience programming,” said IT Faculty Joe Woughter. “Students got to work with Raspberry Pi’s, a micro-sized computer used in many Internet of Thing’s (IOT) systems such as bringing new cutting-edge smart technology into homes and workplaces. This is a key experience to find out if this is a field they may enjoy.”

“They introduced students to two great programs: cybersecurity and programming. Students were very engaged and had an excellent time!” said Greg McDonough, Application Development and programming instructor with Delaware Area Career Center. “This gives students a great exposure of what is out there and what Marion Tech has to offer.”

Faculty Ks Ku on right discusses IT careers with a DACC staff member and student.

Marion Tech offers a variety of certificates and degrees in fields including cybersecurity and networking, software development and web development.

“Information Technology jobs are growing. Whether you are a business protecting your customers’ data or yourself when shopping online or opening an email, cybersecurity is critical,” said Ks Ku, IT faculty at Marion Tech. “These students have opportunities that can pay big dividends for their careers and our community.”

“From software development to cyber security to smart manufacturing, these are in-demand fields,” said Mike White, associate dean of Technical Programs at Marion Technical College. “With new information technology jobs being posted every day in central Ohio, we want our students to know about these great-paying jobs and the pathways to learn the required skills.

Students enjoyed checking out the Esports Arena, another field in software development as well as an entertainment.

Ohio Tech Day is held to raise awareness of the role tech and innovation play in Ohio’s economy and inspire the next generation of tech leaders. Marion Tech joins a host of sponsors including OhioX and Meta.

Marion Tech is offers the Choose Ohio First scholarships in partnership with the Ohio Department of Higher Education to encourage students to go into STEM and stay local for their education and their careers. Marion Tech is accepting applications for scholarships from $1,500 to $5,000 a year for students majoring in IT, engineering technology and health care. The applications for the next round of awards are due Dec. 1. Find details and the application more on mtc.edu/scholarships.