Canada’s tech industry is booming, with a strong emphasis on networking, machine learning, and cloud-based computing. This has led to a high demand for professionals in this field. College of the Rockies responded to this demand with the implementation of the Computer Information Systems Technology (CIST) diploma program, which launched in September 2024.
The program started strong with 12 students, each of whom brings a unique background and perspective to the learning environment. Structured to provide students with a strong foundation in core areas of information systems and technology, making them job ready upon graduation.
Khris Thomas, one of the inaugural 12 students, was initially drawn to the program by the practicality and variety of topics that are included. She has found the learning environment engaging and feels the current skills being taught in networking and programming will provide her with a solid foundation.
“I wanted to take a program that would give me a broad set of skills for different areas of IT and so far, it has lived up to my expectations,” she said. “I live in Kimberley so having two to three weeks online, working from my PC at home, followed by two weeks in person with my laptop, works great for me. I don’t have to be driving back and forth every day.”
“Our instructor, Chizoba Anoliefo (Obi) has a deep understanding of networking and has definitely given us the basic networking skills required to enter the workforce,” she added. “Our other instructor, Dare, has also done a great job at introducing us to programming.”
CIST’s curriculum includes computer networking, programming, database management, cybersecurity, and systems administration. These areas are covered in depth to equip students with both the theoretical knowledge and hands-on skills they’ll need in their careers.
“We include lab-based exercises which allow students to apply their learning in a practical context,” Anoliefo said. “We emphasize key industry skills like troubleshooting, configuring servers and networks, managing databases, and developing software solutions. These are all essential areas that prepare the students for a range of roles in IT.”
With the goal of graduates being career-ready, the program remains agile, incorporating feedback from industry advisors to ensure graduates meet current industry standards. Further education is also an option; students may choose to transfer their credits to a degree program before embarking on their career. Khris is one of those students.
“I plan to continue my education,” she said. “Possibly pursue the new transfer agreement to Alberta or a bachelor’s in computer science at a BC university. We’re still in our first semester, so I have time to decide but I do know for sure I want a career in Information Technology (IT) like most of my family has done. IT is the future after all.”
For more information about the Computer Information Systems Technology program, go to: cotr.ca/cist