Business and computer program exciting for students

Most job openings across the United States require knowledge of software and other computer skills. According to CareerToolBelt.com, the skills that help applicants secure employment include a knowledge of Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Microsoft Access) QuickBooks, e-mail, web and social media skills and graphic design and writing skills.

Students enrolled in Northwest Technology Center's (NWTC) computer and business technology program work through curriculum that provides students with this broad computer knowledge, as well as other specific office skills. NWTC's computer and business technology program is open to high school and adult students. High school students can receive required computer credit towards graduation.

Andrea Long, computer and business technology instructor at NWTC's Alva campus, says that high school students enjoy the class because it is project based, flexible enough to fit their schedules and because it can count as computer credit for graduation requirements. Adult students generally enroll in the program to enhance professional skills, as well as update their computer/technology knowledge.

Computer and business technology offers several career options, all of which have a specific curriculum. They include: office information specialist, administrative assistant, accounts payable/receivable, financial clerk, legal office assistant, medical office assistant and full charge bookkeeper.

Adult students are often placed in "on the job training" (OJT) sites in area businesses. In the past, several have turned that OJT experience into a full-time job. According to Long, "It is not uncommon for area businesses to contact me when they are in need of someone with computer skills and/or office skills."

More information on the computer and business technology program at NWTC is available by contacting Andrea Long or Karen Koehn, career counselor at 580-327-0344 or by accessing the school's website at http://www.nwtech.edu.