Computer Information Systems – CIS
CSIS student Maria Dominguez received her AS Emphasis in Information Systems Technology degree in December 2020. During her time as a JCCC student, Maria served as president for the Computer Club, and volunteered in multiple activities including the NE KS Science Olympiad, the SkillBuilders “Girls Just Want to Have Fun Coding Workshop”, and other outreach activities for CSIS. Obtaining this degree allowed Maria to move from IT apprentice to System Engineer at Cerner in January 2021. We are proud of and congratulate Maria on her accomplishments!
The KC STEM Alliance in February released findings from its focus group research into the best and next practices for closing the gender gap in STEM (science, technology, engineering and math) education. Associate Professor Perla Weaver contributed as a panelist in the middle school focus group. With a focus on the KC Metro STEM Ecosystem: “This report represents the first step in collective action toward closing the many gaps in STEM education—gender, race and differing abilities. It builds on the wisdom, expertise and experience of those passionate about building and supporting a talent pipeline of women in STEM.” –
The CSIS department is expanding the Career Pathways articulations with DeSoto School District to increase the opportunities for High School students to pursue careers in computing. This new articulation will allow students to earn credits for CS 134 – Programming Fundamentals.
Computer Support Specialist – CSS/CPCA
Lisa Friedrichsen and Carol Smith engaged in the Cengage Computing 2021 national webinar conference over JCCC Spring Break on March 10, 11, and 12th. They attended breakout sessions on innovative teaching techniques regarding leading edge technologies, Microsoft 365 software, and computer science certifications. They also attended keynote sessions on the ever-changing digital world, digital culture, and digital diversity by computer science professor and industry thought-leader Corrine Hoisington.
Health Information Systems – HCIS
The HCIS department in partnership with JCCC’s CoLab hosted a Virtual LinkedIn Workshop for HCIS and MIRM students Thursday, March 4th, 2021. Instructor Bethany Spilde, a social media visionary with 10+ years of experience working in the social media marketing field, led the workshop for 30+ students. LinkedIn has become a vital part of every HCIS professional’s success in pivoting careers to securing employment in the HCIS field and connecting with people and to opportunities. Students learned what it takes to take LinkedIn profiles to “All-Star” status while discovering new ways to search for jobs and use other built-in features.
JCCC’s HCIS Department will be participating in the KU Edwards and JCCC Exploring Heath Careers – Career Snapshot event March 31st, 2021. The event will host a panel of professionals in the healthcare field for students to be able to explore and ask questions about the healthcare field. This event will be focused on career explorations.
IT Networking
Andrew Lutz, Chair of the Information Technology- Networking department, has been invited to join the National Career and Technical Education Advisory Council. The Council will lead a national dialog focused on accelerating career pathways in technology.
The Information Technology- Networking department is piloting a cybersecurity competition in its IT 239 Ethical Hacking course. Students will have the opportunity to test their skills with live lab challenges that were designed by the IT faculty.
MIRM – Medical Information and Revenue Management
MIRM faculty participated in the JCCC Virtual Networking Fair on Monday, March 22. Faculty was able to share some of the personal stories re: their educational journey and career progression. Faculty was also able to provide feedback on each student’s “elevator speech,” answer specific questions, and provide an additional connection for students on-campus. Kudos to Valerie Mann and the Career Development Center for a wonderful event!
MIRM faculty and students participated in a HCIS/MIRM LinkedIn Workshop with Bethany Spilde on March 4. Participants received a step-by-step walk-through of LinkedIn, including key information to include on their profiles and steps to build an “All Star” profile! Thank you to Bethany Spilde and Nan Abbott for your hard work and a great session!
Amanda Kraus participated in the monthly Greater Kansas City HIMSS (Health Information Management Systems Society) March Board meeting on Friday, March 12. Amanda is currently serving as the Board Secretary. https://kchimssc.starchapter.com/board.php
WEB – Web Development and Digital Media
Adjunct Professor Andy Young and Web Chair/Professor Jim Hopper have been awarded the 2021 NISOD Excellence Award. The NISOD Excellence Award recognizes individuals who have demonstrated teaching and leadership excellence in institutions of higher education.