Fast track to the future; Colleges respond to changing work-force needs.

• Author: Caley, Nora
• Position: [EXECUTIVE EDUCATION] - International Business Machines Corp. partnered with 400 universities for training Program

Here's something they don't talk about in those PC-versus-Mac commercials: Mainframe computers, those large, decades-old machines, still hold data for banks and other organizations. Many of the baby boomers who know how to maintain those IBM-compatible systems are getting ready to retire, so companies must find new workers with these skills.

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To respond to this need, IBM has partnered with 400 universities worldwide to teach mainframe and large-system skills. One of the most recent schools is the University of Denver. In June, DU, IBM and the Metro Denver WIRED initiative announced that they'd partnered to create a Mainframe Administration Training Program. the 20-week course is free fro candidates who scored highly on a test DU administered on June 12. The course is funded through a WIRED grant.

Griffith A. Kundahl, director of development for DU's School of Engineering and Computer Science, says the effort is part of the university's vision of being a great private university dedicated to the public good. "This program is a great example of that," he says.

It's also an example of how local colleges and universities are responding to employers' demands for skilled workers. The institutions are revamping programs, adding courses and adding convenience for working adults. The goal is to make it easy for employers to hire graduates, and to make sure graduates develop the relevant skills for a changing workplace.

Whether the students are traditional 18 to 22-year-olds looking for their first "real" job, or adult learners hoping to update their skills, schools say they are responding to what businesses and students want.

Lisa Severy, director of career services for the University of Colorado at Boulder, says what employers seek hasn't changed over the years.

"They are looking for entry-level graduates with critical thinking and problem-solving skills, that have had work experience but are at a very trainable spot in their careers," she says.

Meanwhile, graduates are looking for jobs that will allow them to express their creativity and see where they fit in the world. "They are still in this exploratory mindset, and they surf from one job to another," Severy says. "That can be frustrating for employers who are used to the mindset of, 'I am coming out into the world, and I want to prove myself and work up the ladder.'"

Rich Schweigert, CEO of Colorado State University's new online Global Campus, says there is demand for workers in industries such as health care and information technology. In all industries, there is a need for workers with leadership skills and change-management skills.

"Businesses tell us they want a relevant career focus, and educational opportunities that are delivered in a timely manner," he says. "Employers also are wise enough to know by further educating their...