IBM’s Power Systems Academic Initiative (PSAI) has seen a massive 152% growth since its re-launch two years ago, and it now includes more than 300 colleges and universities around the world.
By joining the programme, academic institutions are provided with access to IBM Power Systems technology which, the company says, helps to arm students with the necessary skills to handle new workloads such as big data, cloud, mobile and social which are deemed crucial in today’s job market.
IBM says the explosion of data and the cloud has fuelled the need for employees with specialised talent. Between now and 2022, the US Bureau of Labour Statistics projects a faster-than-average increase in employment opportunities for computer and information research scientists.
This means that employers in every industry are seeking job candidates who possess the skills to use the hardware that can uncover insights from data to solve problems, act on findings, enter new markets, and gain a competitive advantage.
“Linux and other open innovation platforms have become a primary source of development in today’s technology marketplace, and companies are looking to colleges and universities to produce a workforce equipped with the skills required to innovate in these environments,” says Terri Virnig, vice-president, Power Systems Ecosystem and Strategy at IBM.
“IBM is committed to partnering with colleges and universities around the world to provide students hands-on experience with the technology that will make an impact in today’s data-driven marketplace.”
He adds that for professors teaching computer science, information technology, business, or marketing courses, IBM offers a wide range of products and solutions that can help enhance curriculum and enable students to develop competitive skills on the latest industry-standard software, systems, and tools.
For example, Zend Technologies works with the PSAI to offer PHP courseware and related software development tools to university students learning how to code. Additionally, Enskill.com is developing an IBM i RPG programming course for members and COMMON – Users Group is also developing a student RPG certification exam.