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34 | I NSIGH T • N o v e m b e r 2 0 17 w w w . i n s i g h t o n b u s i n e s s . c o m "There are a lot of negative perceptions about coding and IT, but that's really what it comes down to — how can we solve this problem." — Erin Draheim, senior software engineer, Skyline Technologies created TEALS to provide grants, technology, a proven curriculum and resources to nonprofits and partner schools to improve digital skills and computer science programs. But at its core, it features the pairing of working professionals with teachers in the classroom to learn how to develop and teach the skills needed. "It's going to give us that knowledge that will help us fill the pipeline," Iversen says. "ere is still no certification, and that may be an opportunity for the Alliance to help." Of the 13 state schools that joined the program in its first year in Wisconsin, 10 of them are from Northeast Wisconsin. "Given the current, and growing, shortage of IT talent needed to drive our economy, TEALS is a welcome approach," Paul Mueller, chief information officer, rivent Financial, says. "It will accelerate the development of the talent we need, while investing in the futures of our students." TEALS is one component of Microso's larger TechSpark Initiative announced in early October that will include Brown and Outagamie counties as one of the initial six areas the civic program will target to help foster greater economic opportunity and job creation. e TEALS program includes schools outside of those two counties. But like TechSpark, one of the aims is to help smaller metropolitan and rural areas bridge the resource and knowledge gap. "(e volunteers) have brought real- world IT experiences into the classroom and engaged the students in real-world application of IT solutions," says Aaron Casper, business education teacher at Denmark High School. "I think for a small school of about 466, our students are getting a head start in any business and technology career they choose to pursue." It's real-world experience the volunteers who are helping with the program are only too happy to share. If they shatter a few myths about working in technology along the way, so much the better. "I like to show them that it's really just problem-solving," Draheim says. "ere are a lot of negative perceptions about coding and IT, but that's really what it comes down to — how can we solve this problem." TECHNOLOGY with us, it's personal Helping you and your family achieve personal prosperity through business success. 920-882-4800 www.myprospera.com Prospera views your business as an integral part of your life. We ensure that both your personal and business financial matters are managed holistically. We're here for you, no matter where you are. • Starting or purchasing a business • Growing your business/ in business • Moving toward retirement Maria Young Business Development Specialist Membership eligibility requirement. Federally insured by NCUA. Jerry Ramus VP Commercial Lending Securities and Investment Advisory services offered through Woodbury Financial Services, Inc. Alberts & Heling CPAs and Woodbury Financial Services, Inc. are not affiliated entities. Neither Woodbury Financial Services, Inc. nor its representatives or employees provide legal or tax advice. Alberts & Heling CPA's LLC, 1977 American Dr Suite 202, Neenah WI 54956 Alberts & Heling CPA's, LLC albertsheling.com Green Bay: Fox VAlley: ALBERTS & HELING t a x e s i n v e s t m e n t s c o n s u l t i n g DVANTAGE It's what you'll enjoy. The expert business finance advice you get from Alberts & Heling will set you apart. Our unique financial management insight helps you keep solid books and your business rolling. Connect with us today. A_AL04-1115 Insight Ad 2016_Advantage_Final.indd 1 2/4/16 1:51 PM