Computer Operations Program Trains Future IT Professionals
The Computer Operations program at the New Castle Career Center is a two-year course led by Instructor Darrell Shawl. It provides students the skills to become information technology (IT) professionals, covering computer hardware and software functionality, maintenance, safety, troubleshooting, and repair.
Students in the Computer Operations program learn to install operating systems and use virtual machines (VMs). They can earn ten college credits from Ivy Tech and certifications in TestOut PC Pro, TestOut Tech+, TestOut Network+, and CompTIA Tech+.
First and Second-Year Student IT Learning Experiences
In the first year, students gain hands-on experience disassembling and reassembling computers, identifying components, and understanding their functions. They also develop troubleshooting skills through a simulated customer interaction exercise. In these simulations, second-year students act as customers with broken computers, and first-year students must diagnose and repair the issues.
“The first-year students need to ask questions to determine what is wrong with the computer and then repair it,” Shawl explained. “This helps both the first and second-year students become better with their communication skills.”
During the second year, students use the Cisco Networking Academy website to focus on network administration. They learn how to configure routers and switches and how devices communicate within a network.
Hands-On Experience for Computer Operations Students
The program also provides the students with opportunities to assist with basic troubleshooting within the Career Center. This could include resolving projector or network connectivity issues with a teacher's computer or replacing an optical disk drive. Recently, a student replaced batteries in several Chromebooks used by the Career Center's Veterinary Science program. Second-year students even travel offsite to EMT or Health Science classrooms to help with technology problems.
Occasionally, students assist the New Castle Community School Corporation IT staff with projects like assembling BenQ boards or running network cables. One student is interning with the Shenandoah High School IT department, gaining hands-on experience by helping with work orders. Another student is starting an internship at NineStar Connect in January.
New Robert Operator Certifications Coming Soon
In November, Mr. Shawl attended a training session to learn how to program and operate a FANUC Robotic Handling Tool. He will then train students to use the robot arm, enabling them to obtain a Robot Operator 1 certification. The robot is expected to be delivered in January.
Visit nccareercenter.org for more information about the Computer Operations program and other programs available through the New Castle Career Center.