Information technology apprenticeship continues to equip city schools youth with dynamic on-the-job skills

On February 21st, the Office of Information Technology(OIT) welcomed almost 40 Prospective Youth Apprentices to the district’s central office for a Lunch and Learn. In partnership with Academic’s Office of Secondary Success and Innovation, OIT hosted a day full of information and insight as students from Western, Digital Harbor, Edmondson, and MERVO toured their headquarters. City Schools staff led presentations about the different branches of Information Technology(IT), how students can identify their strengths in each, and how to best complete apprenticeship applications. For many of these students, the upcoming apprenticeship opportunity will be one of a lifetime. This is a chance for students to receive a wealth of training, from on-the-job skills to essential life lessons that could undoubtedly shape their futures.

Lokeshwar Persaud, an Assistant IT Director, was one of the OIT leaders who participated in leading the apprenticeship luncheon. City Schools sits down with him to learn more about IT and why opportunities like this remain valuable for our students.

1. What inspired you to get into Information Technology?

Initially, my career aspirations were rooted in the sciences; I envisioned myself as a scientist, passionate about exploring the realms of physics, chemistry, and biology. However, a pivotal moment came when I attended a technology expo. Witnessing the transformative power of technology to overcome challenges and drive innovation sparked a profound realization within me. Recognizing its potential impact on the future, I redirected my focus towards Information Technology. This led me to pursue a degree in Computer Science, attain various IT certifications, and eventually complete a Master’s in Information Systems Management.

2. How has your career progressed at City Schools?

My tenure at City Schools has been marked by consistent advancement, reflecting the recognition of my capabilities and contributions by district leadership. In nearly seven years, I have progressed through various roles within the organization, starting as the Manager of IT Network Operations, then transitioning to Manager of IT Security, followed by overseeing the management of IT Data Center & Business Continuity, and presently serving as the Assistant IT Director responsible for Infrastructure & Business Continuity.

3. Why was this apprenticeship program created?

This year’s apprenticeship program was initiated under the guidance of our Chief Information Officer, Tommy Jones, and his management team. The primary objective was to provide students in Baltimore City Schools with a Career and Technical Education (CTE) pathway and an opportunity to gain practical experience in the field of Information Technology.

One of our very own OIT employees, Kevin Brandon, participated in Baltimore City Public School’s Youth apprenticeship program in 1989 when he was 16 years old. During his 30-year tenure at the district, Kevin has ascended to various leadership roles in the department and is currently the Manager for IT Technical Services. Success stories like those of my esteemed colleague continue to inspire us to refine this apprenticeship program year after year.

4. What motivates you to be an active part of this program?

My active involvement in this program is motivated by a deep-seated belief in the importance of investing in our City Schools youth. They not only represent the future but also possess the potential to shape it. By participating in this apprenticeship program, I am committed to providing students with the necessary guidance and support to cultivate their skills and knowledge in Information Technology, empowering them to navigate the challenges of the modern world confidently.

5. What transferrable skills could this experience give students to use in the IT business and beyond?

In the past, technology was viewed as a tool businesses and companies used to make their jobs and specific processes more effective and efficient. However, that view has drastically changed since technology has become more required than optional. It plays a critical role in our everyday lives and is vital for the strategic alignment of Businesses.  In today’s world, one cannot simply avoid technology because it is widely used in many fields of business, including professors, Bankers, Finance managers, HVAC tech, engineers, Doctors, Lawyers, and carpenters managing projects, and those are just a few. I emphasize the importance of IT because irrespective of which field students enter, IT is used to a certain extent. While acknowledging the many options at students’ fingertips, OIT still hopes this program will inspire them to stay and pursue a career in IT.

6. What excites you about where the IT field is heading?

The IT field is getting better by replacing mundane tasks with automated solutions. Artificial Intelligence is rapidly improving. As such, Business functions are becoming less complex due to IT integration. The innovation level in IT excites me; every day, we keep improving our IT processes. This excites me to think about what the future holds for our young minds.

7. What question did a student ask that stood out to you and why?

One question from a student resonated deeply with me: “How can I overcome complex problems that don’t have a solution?” This inquiry captures a common concern among aspiring IT professionals regarding the daunting nature of unresolved challenges. In response, I emphasized the dynamic nature of the IT field, where innovation and problem-solving are constant endeavors. I shared a poignant message that our Chief Information Officer, Tommy Jones, often shares with our team. He is quoted saying, “My father always taught me that there is no unsolvable problem. We just haven’t solved it yet.”

8. What are you looking forward to teaching students about your daily work?

As we embark on this mentorship journey, I am eagerly anticipating the opportunity to provide students with insights into the intricacies of our daily work. From leadership and project management to technical operations and cybersecurity, our aim is to offer a comprehensive understanding of the multifaceted nature of IT. By immersing students in real-world scenarios and equipping them with practical skills, we aspire to foster a generation of IT professionals capable of driving innovation and effecting positive change.

Stay tuned for more updates covering OIT’s apprenticeship program and the students’ progression! While the program is still in its application and selection process, students are projected to start in August or September of 2024. Click here to read more Baltimore City Public Schools Progress Reports.