Written By Jackson State University
The Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering and Computer Science in Jackson State University’s College of Science, Engineering, and Technology (CSET) received a $16,000 grant from State Farm Insurance Company.
“By championing IT programs at Historically Black Colleges and Universities, State Farm lays the groundwork for a powerful synergy between education, technology, and inclusive growth,” said Jhay Davis, associate director of enterprise technology. “We applaud Jackson State University for embracing these opportunities.”
The grant was given to the department by the insurance company to support the Computer Science and Professional Development program. Partnerships such as these are redefining the future of technology industries and helping to pave the way for lasting positive change.
“Many of our agents are alum of this very school and launched their careers with the same education these students are receiving,” said Lorraine Muhammad, technology manager forStateFarm. “There is proof that Jackson State is ensuring that students are prepared to meet the demands of the computer science field in study and work.”
The Computer Science Career and Professional Development program will allow students majoring in computer sciences to further develop the technical, professional, and soft skills required to secure jobs in the technology field.
“This contribution shows that State Farm shares the vision of Jackson State and CSET when it comes to growing and developing a technologically advanced environment for learning so that our students can become leaders and impact the technology advancement in Mississippi and the nation,” shared Ramzi Kafoury, associate dean for CSET.
The program will provide access to additional curriculum, workshops, and resources to provide them with opportunities to enhance skill sets identified as necessary for success in the field.
“With this seed funding, we’re able to build co-curricular activity that allows us to continue the offerings that we afford to our students. We’re so grateful for this partnership and this particular program because it fits nicely with our strategic plan. It’s elevating academic prominence and student success,” explained Jacqueline Jackson, Ph.D., interim department chair of Electrical and Computer Engineering and Computer Science.
The professional development program will provide three main activities. First, introducing technical skill development in Java and Amazon Web Services (AWS) program participants to object-oriented concepts, terminology, and syntax through hands-on activities. Students will be provided funding to take certification exams in each respective area.
The second activity will aid students in navigating the interview process. Students will practice interviewing with an interview streaming platform and participate in live behavioral mock interviews, technical mock interview workshops, and whiteboard exercises. This activity aims to ensure that students develop skills to tell their story effectively.
Lastly, students will have the opportunity to attend workshops on effective communication, time and project management, emotional intelligence and empathy.
