On January 24th, Brian Bernknopf, QA Consultants Managing Director (U.S.), was one of a select number of Dallas business leaders that participated in an exclusive industry roundtable hosted by the Dallas Regional Chamber (DRC).
For the roundtable, business that are committed to ensuring the local economy thrive, gathered to discuss how the information technology sector can/should engage career pathways to Texas’ emerging workforce. Among the forward-thinking North Texas companies were AT&T, Capital One, Citi, Southwest Airlines, State Farm, and AdvanceNet Labs. Representatives from the workforce development and education communities included DCCCD, DISD, and Per Scholas.
According to Bernknopf, “The DRC facilitated an inspired session that effectively surfaced key lessons for business leaders, educational institutions, and skilled workers. For example, there is a tremendous amount of local talent that can be tapped into by businesses that leverage social and business networks. At the same time, businesses are well served to look beyond traditional educational programs (e.g. a four year software engineering program) and make way for energetic people with real-world experiences.”
Special thanks to the DRC which is continuing to host a series of these industry roundtables and to Keith Thode who recommended this event.