For Richard, making sense of data and complex databases is not too different from understanding language and linguistics, which he studied in college years ago.
What is new these days is getting employers to avoid assumptions that, as an older adult in the workforce, he can’t handle computers and modern technology.
“I identify as a lifelong learner. I enjoy comprehending entirely new information and translating it into a well-structured and understandable analysis. I’ve worked with every iteration of computers and technology. But one of the things I run into as an older worker is not being believed that I can use computers,” said Richard, 65, of Redding.
This prompted him, in part, to pursue certificates in Data Analysis and IT Support at Calbright. He aimed to showcase his skills in a way employers valued and understood. By earning a CompTIA A+ certification, he could augment his resume and overcome the age bias he was encountering.
CompTIA A+ certification is a performance-based exam that validates the foundational skills needed for a career in IT support. Calbright covers the cost of the exam for students who complete the college’s IT program.
Today, Richard is a Program Specialist for the United Way of Northern California. He works with the Homeless Management Information System team for the NorCal Continuum of Care, and is charged with converting data into reports the nonprofit can use for federal and state grant and reporting requirements, among other nonprofit business operations needs.
Richard said he noticed that once he earned both the Calbright Data Analysis certificate and the CompTIA A+ certificate, adding those certificates to his resume created positive responses from prospective employers.
In addition, Richard took advantage of the opportunity to participate in a paid micro-internship with Calbright partner Riipen. Riipen is the developer of a popular marketplace platform that enables college students to connect with real-world projects from companies. Together, Calbright and Riipen provided 75 Calbright students with flexible, paid, project-based micro-internships this spring and early summer.
Richard’s project centered around creating a mapping system between a small business’s database and FedEx shipment tracking systems to improve customer service and streamline business processes.
“While my extensive work history provides a lot of information, these certificates from Calbright serve as a contemporary shorthand, immediately signaling to employers that I possess up-to-date skills in modern technology and data management,” he said. “It bridged the gap between my extensive learning and experience and the current demands of the workforce, demonstrating not just my willingness, but my proven ability to master new digital tools and systems.”
