Computer Technology Specialists
Computer technicians often work closely with engineers to design, develop, test, and manufacture electrical and electronic equipment. The core computer technology skills are in high demand across a range of related industries such as communication equipment, medical monitoring devices, navigational equipment, and computers. Computer techs may work in product evaluation and testing, using measuring and diagnostic devices to adjust, test, and repair equipment. Computer technicians may also play an important service role in a corporate IT department or any company that sells or services computer equipment. The nature of the work also requires a range of soft-skills including customer service and a general knowledge of a wide range of software products used by the computer users. Although many companies desire technicians with a two-year degree in computer technology, a specialized vocational certification such and Life Center's IBTA Computer Technology Specialist certification often meets the immediate needs of companies seeking help with computer support. Most computer technicians work 40 hours per week and earn an average of about $50,000 per year (electronics engineering technicians category) according to the Department of Labor Statistics.

"Be Someone Now" Program
The Work One "Be Someone Now" program pays 100% of the tuition for qualifying 17 to 21 year old students. Students must apply through Work One of Elkhart County and meet all Workforce Development requirements. This program includes two parts. The first part combines the IBTA Customer Service Professional certification with specially crafted life skills training. The second part is the core vocational class. Students must complete the first part before being allowed into the second part. Students are not required to have a high school diploma or GED. The program is completed in one term. The complete program is 8-weeks long, 4-hours each day, Monday through Thursday.

Adult Education Program
The Adult program includes only the core vocational class and is completed in one 6-week term, 4-hours per day, Monday through Thursday. Students must have a high school diploma or GED or must take the Customer Service and Life Skills class as a prerequisite. Students who qualify for TAA or WIA may qualify for Work One funding for this class.

Computer Technology Specialist Class
This is the core vocation class for the computer program. It is designed to provide students with short-term intensive training along with adequate credentials to obtain employment in a corporate IT environment or computer service company. The program trains students in a broad computer knowledge and skills. The course covers computer technology, network technology, e-commerce, computer security, Microsoft Windows 7 Operating System, office software applications, keyboarding, and cabling. Successful students receive the fully accredited IBTA Computer Technology Specialist certification. Students successfully completing the Computer Technology Specialist certification are also awarded three Vincennes University credits. This class runs 4-hour per day, Monday to Thursday, for six weeks (96 contact hours). Class size limit: 12.

Customer Service & Life Skills Class*
This class combines Customer Service with various key life skills to provide a wholistic training approach to the broad range of skills needed in the modern workplace. The class consists of five sections. Section 1 is Leadership. The Leadership section concentrates on the areas of character, ethics, citizenship, and business leadership. Section 2 is English. Students must have a functional understanding of the mechanics of English grammar in order to read and write essential documents in the workplace. Section 3 is Math. Students must be able to use measuring equipment, count money, figure percentage, and perform other common mathematics to function in any business environment. Section 4 is Business. This section introduces students to a variety of essentials business from completing invoices to comprehending interest and insurance. Section 5 is Customer Service. The Customer Service portion addresses the specific skills needed in all types of customer service situations. Topics include personal, phone and electronic forms of communication, interpersonal skills, real-world employer expectations, handling difficult customers, and much more. Successful students receive the fully accredited IBTA Customer Service Professional certification. This class meets 4 hours each day, Monday through Thursday, for 2 weeks (32 contact hours).

*This class is a requirement for students in the Be Someone Now program funded through Work One or for any adult student who has not obtained a high school diploma or GED.