Are you a student eager to start your career in the tech industry? The IBM Skills Build initiative is an excellent opportunity tailored just for you. This program, specifically designed for students at Colleges and Universities, offers invaluable resources, including training in high-demand areas like data analytics, cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, and cloud computing.
IBM Skills Build is more than just a learning platform; it’s a gateway to career opportunities. Through this initiative, you can gain industry-relevant skills, connect with IBM recruiters, and network with peers who are already benefiting from the program.
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Event Agenda
| Time | Agenda Item | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| 2:30 AM | Introduction and Enrollment Guidance | 10 minutes |
| – IBM Skills Build HBCU Strategist walks students through enrollment steps. | ||
| 2:40 AM | Career Opportunities at IBM | 10 minutes |
| – IBM Recruiting HBCU Leader discusses internships and full-time roles. | ||
| 2:50 AM | Industry Tech Talk | 25 minutes |
| – Subject matter expert presents on a trending tech topic. | ||
| 3:15 AM | Q&A Session | 15 minutes |
| – Open floor for questions from students. | ||
| 3:30 AM | Conclusion | – |
Direct Joining Link: Click here to Book your Slot
Event Highlights:
Here’s what you can expect from the IBM Skills Build HBCU event:
- Enrollment & Resources Overview (10 minutes): An IBM HBCU Strategist will guide you through the enrollment process and introduce the resources available to you through IBM’s platforms.
- Recruitment Insights (10 minutes): Hear directly from IBM’s HBCU Recruiting Leader about the latest job openings, including internships and full-time roles at IBM.
- Industry Tech Talks (25 minutes): Gain insights from a subject matter expert in a tech field like data analytics or cybersecurity. This is a great opportunity to learn about industry trends and the skills employers are looking for.
- Q&A Session (15 minutes): Get your questions answered by industry leaders and students who have already benefited from the program.
Event Dates:
- Thursday, August 15 · 2:30 – 3:30 AM GMT+5:30
- Thursday, September 12 · 2:30 – 3:30 AM GMT+5:30
- Thursday, October 10 · 2:30 – 3:30 AM GMT+5:30
- Thursday, November 14 · 3:30 – 4:30 AM GMT+5:30
- Thursday, December 12 · 3:30 – 4:30 AM GMT+5:30
Why Join the IBM Skills Build Event?
- Empowerment Through Education: HBCUs have long been a cornerstone in the education of African American students, providing a supportive environment and quality education. The IBM Skills Build program aligns with this mission by offering free, self-paced courses that prepare you for the tech industry’s demands.
- Direct Access to Opportunities: The event includes insights from IBM recruiters about current job openings, including internships and full-time roles, giving you a direct line to potential employment.
- Networking and Growth: Engage with industry experts and fellow students, expanding your network and learning from those who have successfully transitioned into tech roles through this program.
The IBM HBCU Ambassador Program is an important initiative that aims to provide students at with access to the kind of professional development opportunities that have traditionally been more readily available at predominantly white institutions (PWIs). Here’s a breakdown of why this program matters, especially for students currently pursuing their degrees.
Understanding the IBM HBCU Ambassador Program
The IBM HBCU Ambassador Program is part of a broader initiative that was announced in March 2022 by the administration of President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris. This initiative is focused on increasing professional development opportunities for students at HBCUs. The program includes partnerships with major companies like Microsoft, Netflix, Apple, Dominion Energy, and IBM, all of which are working together to provide valuable resources to HBCU students.
In this specific program, IBM Skills Build plays a key role by offering free training courses in high-demand areas such as cybersecurity, data science, artificial intelligence (AI), and cloud computing through their IBM SkillsBuild portal. These self-paced courses are designed to help students develop critical skills that are increasingly required in today’s job market. Notably, these courses are not just for students majoring in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) fields; they are also beneficial for those studying marketing, education, liberal arts, and even those looking to start their own businesses.
The Importance of the IBM HBCU Ambassador Program
HBCUs have historically been underfunded and lacked the same level of resources available at PWIs. This funding disparity is a result of systemic racism that has affected these institutions for decades. For instance, in 2021, the state of Maryland was ordered to pay $577 million to its HBCUs as compensation for years of underfunding. This lack of resources has had a significant impact on the opportunities available to HBCU students, especially in areas like networking, access to special programs, and professional development.
The IBM HBCU Ambassador Program is a direct response to these challenges. By becoming an IBM HBCU Ambassador, students have the chance to represent their colleges, connect with industry leaders, and gain access to valuable training and career opportunities. Ambassadors are responsible for keeping their campuses informed about the latest resources, events, and opportunities provided by IBM, helping to bridge the gap between their institutions and the professional world.
Perks of Joining this Event as Student
Participating in the IBM HBCU vs. HBCU Student Tech Talk Wednesdays offers numerous benefits that can significantly impact your academic and professional journey. Here’s why you should consider attending:
1. Direct Interaction with Industry Leaders
- What: Engage with industry experts and IBM professionals who have a wealth of knowledge in various tech fields.
- Why it Matters: Gain insights from those who are actively working in the industry, which can guide your career decisions and inspire you to explore new areas of interest.
2. Networking Opportunities
- What: Connect with fellow students, alumni, and IBM professionals during the event.
- Why it Matters: Building a professional network is crucial for future job opportunities. Networking with others who have similar interests and goals can lead to valuable connections and collaborations.
3. Exposure to In-Demand Tech Skills
- What: Learn about current tech trends and in-demand skills in areas such as cybersecurity, data science, AI, and cloud computing.
- Why it Matters: These skills are highly sought after in today’s job market. Gaining exposure and knowledge in these areas can make you a more competitive job candidate.
4. IBM HBCU Ambassador Program Overview
- What: Understand how to become an IBM HBCU Ambassador and the benefits of representing your college in this prestigious program.
- Why it Matters: As an ambassador, you can play a key role in bringing valuable resources and opportunities back to your campus, enhancing your leadership skills and professional development.
5. Career Opportunities at IBM
- What: Learn about internships and full-time job opportunities at IBM, including the recruitment process and what IBM looks for in candidates.
- Why it Matters: This is a direct pathway to securing a job or internship at a leading global company, which can be a significant boost to your career.
6. Q&A Session
- What: Participate in a live question-and-answer session with IBM professionals.
- Why it Matters: Get your specific questions answered and gain clarity on topics that matter most to you, whether it’s about the industry, career paths, or IBM’s offerings.
How to Join
- Platform: This is an online event. You can join from the comfort of your home or anywhere with internet access.
- What You Need: A computer or mobile device with internet access, and possibly a notebook for taking notes.
Don’t miss this chance to build your skills, connect with professionals, and take the first step toward a successful career in data analytics and beyond. Join the IBM Skills Build event and start your journey today!