Blog
Featured Networking Student for June 2021
Michael Looker
Bio
Transitioning from Warfighter to Cyber Warrior
I retired after serving 20 years on active duty as a Chief Hospital Corpsman and spent 5 years as a commercial electrician. I have found my new purpose that has always been in the back of my mind. With the condition of the world today, I saw a window of opportunity to finally chase my passion. Within a few short months, I will complete my training and be looking for employment opportunities within the cyber world.
Featured Developer Student for June 2021
Jordan Hickman
BIO
Cheers! My name is Jordan Hickman and I grew up in Kansas City, Missouri. I really enjoy my time writing music, going to concerts, reading, and trying out new recipes. I especially enjoy travel, national and abroad, and hiking in new places. My close family lives here although I am not beyond living elsewhere at a date in the future to drink in different environments and seek out great opportunities.
What is Professional Development and Why is it Important for IT?
Have you heard? The IT industry is in need of some serious tech talent. While there are plenty of IT jobs to choose from, it’s important to outperform the competition by keeping your personal and professional skills sharp heading into interviews. We’re talking about Pro Dev, or Professional Development, which encompasses not only your technical skills but also your “soft skills” (AKA the interpersonal attributes you need to succeed in the workplace).
Meet the Instructor: Mike Rissen
Meet Mike Rissen, one of Centriq Corporate Technical Trainers! Mike focuses on Azure and .NET training but is skilled in different IT areas across the board. Find out why Mike decided to join Centriq, why he thinks Azure is beneficial in a professional environment, and why Azure completely blows his mind.
Featured Developer Student for May 2021
Sarah Ledford
BIO
Hi! My name is Sarah Ledford. I live in the KC Metro area with my husband, dog, and cat. I’m originally from Alabama but moved up here when my husband was stationed at Fort Riley. After the military, we moved here so he could go to Centriq through the SSA program. Fast forward a couple of years, and here I am!
Featured Networking Student for May 2021
Rory Siercks
Bio
Hi! I am Rory Siercks from Lee’s Summit MO. I am from Kansas City, native born and raised, but was fortunate to have traveled all over this country at a young age while I was pursuing a career in music.
What is Sallie Mae? Six FAQS About Sallie Mae and How to Use it for Technical Training
If you’ve ever thought “Who is Sallie Mae and what does she have to do with my student loans?”, keep reading. Sallie Mae isn’t a schoolgirl — it’s a private loan provider that can help fund your education.
Meet the Instructor: Craig Gerdes
Meet Craig Gerdes, one of Centriq’s corporate trainers! Craig teaches Microsoft 365 and Office desktop classes, along with Professional Development courses. He has worked in education for over 30 years and is excited to teach you what he knows. Learn more about Craig and his favorite apps to teach below!
The Switch Up in Job Market Trends: Hospitality Jobs Decline While Tech Jobs Grow Through 2029
When the US Bureau of Labor Statistics released its 2019-2029 employment projection report in September 2020, it didn’t account for COVID and its drastic effect to our job market. But when the Bureau updated its report earlier this year, it foretold a somber story for some industries and the beginning of a boom for others — thanks to COVID.
Featured STL Student for April 2021
Jordan Felix
Bio
Hi! My name is Jordan Felix. I am a hardworking, hard playing individual who enjoys a good audiobook, playing my guitar, and being a supporting husband for my wife and her business. I was born and raised in the Metro East area and attended Southwestern Illinois College for Music Education before plunging into the work force. I have always let my curiosity drive my passions and, after dabbling in some online networking courses, I knew that I wanted to get serious about a career in IT.