Feb. 2, 2022, GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. – GRCC Workforce Training programs provide in-demand skills leading to rewarding careers. We are introducing students who are heading down an educational pathway and changing their lives by earning occupational certificates.
Tyler Kryzanowski has a Bachelor’s degree in Computer Animation from Ferris State University but struggled to find work in the West Michigan area. He worked in a manufacturing facility to get by, but was laid off in early 2021 like so many others during the pandemic.
A former Ferris classmate suggested GRCC’s Job Training Computer Support Technician program, so he checked into it.
“A couple of months after I was laid off, I decided that I really needed to look at a career pivot. I looked at the Job Training program and threw all my eggs into that basket.”
The Computer Support Technician Job Training Program prepares students to achieve two certifications: the CompTIA A+ Certification and the Network+ Certification. Both of these IT certifications are globally recognized and represent in-demand skills sought by a wide array of employers.
“Halfway through the program, I moved to Lansing and starting looking for opportunities there. Because the program is offered entirely online, I was able to make that move,” he said.
“When I first started, I had a great conversation with the instructor, Moss Ingram. I shared that I struggle with ADD and he really understood and tried to help whenever he could. He helped me out a lot. The contacts I made through this class were very helpful as well. Job postings are shared and staff help with interviews, too.”
The Computer Support Technician Job Training Program is now offered in an entirely online format; however, there is still a personal element in the program. Ingram stresses that should not deter anyone from taking the program.
“We have structured the program in a way that provides flexibility but keeps the personal interaction necessary to be successful in the program and in the industry,” Ingram said.
Unlike many training programs that meet the needs of a specific market, any and all employers who use computer technology require computer support. Whether provided by a full-time employee or by a contracted managed services company, every company needs IT support.
This program is designed to address computer support from four perspectives: technical, professionalism and employability, business innovation, and design. Students regularly meet local IT technicians, engineers, business owners, and recruiters via Zoom to learn from their experiences and current market expectations.
“Once I received the CompTIA A+ Certification, that opened many doors for me. I just started my new job on Monday at Michigan State University as a Classroom IT Support Technician,” Kryzanowski said.
“This class helped me grow personally and make connections in the industry. It also, taught me accountability which will continue to help me. I think my future looks pretty good now!”
GRCC has an unmatched reputation among employers for supplying West Michigan with work-ready technicians. Our graduates specialize in providing empathy for the people they support while solving complex problems using troubleshooting and design thinking methodologies. Students are also taught to focus on human-centered solutions and technology-based innovations for both colleagues and customers.
The next Computer Support Technician program begins March 14, 2022. Details are at grcc.edu/jobtraining.