The role of community colleges in expanding the supply of information technology workers

This paper examines the role of community colleges in expanding the supply of information technology (IT) workers in the United States. Drawing on both quantitative and qualitative methods, contrasting evidence on the importance of these institutions is identified. Analysis of the 1994 and 1999 Current Population Survey and interviews with large IT employers indicate that community colleges are not adding significantly to the supply of IT workers. However, enrolment data and case studies of four community colleges suggest that students undertake a substantial amount of IT training at community colleges. While graduation rates are low, enrolment in community college IT programs is high. Moreover, there is evidence that community colleges contribute to retraining workers who are already in IT jobs, those switching to IT careers in mid-life, and those with previous bachelor degrees.

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