The January issue article, Threats to NH's High-Tech Ecosystem, articulates well the challenges facing technology companies in NH. The state's colleges understand these issues, and are making efforts to support growth in this important sector. Here's what we are doing at Keene State College (KSC) to help address this problem:
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RCAM (Regional Center for Advanced Manufacturing): In partnership with The Greater Keene Chamber of Commerce, River Valley Community College and SAU 29 (Keene High School), Keene State College opened RCAM this past fall to provide hands-on training in CNC machining, programming, math and other skills needed to operate today's sophisticated machine tools. This program is open to high schoolers, unemployed and under-employed people, as well as current employees wishing to enhance their skill levels.
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Undergraduate Research: Keene State College engages students starting freshman year in research projects that expand their science and technology training. With funding from NH INBRE (NH IDeA Network of Biological Research Excellence), KSC students are paired with faculty mentors and conduct research on real-world issues including molecular characterization of microbes in the tidal wetlands of the Great Bay Estuary.
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Improved Facilities and Equipment: KSC just opened its new Technology, Design and Safety Center last semester. This facility houses RCAM, Sustainable Product Design and Innovation, and Occupational Health and Safety Studies programs. In 2004, KSC opened its David F. Putnam Science Center, home to Computer Science, Biology, and Chemistry degree programs.
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Building Partnerships with Business: We bring business leaders together with faculty and staff to learn more about each business's challenges and opportunities. This helps us match KSC's resources to these business needs and find ways for KSC to help. To learn more contact me at dhenderson@keene.edu.
Over half of KSC's students stay in NH after graduating. It is vital that we partner with business to make sure that attractive, engaging career opportunities are available for them here in NH. KSC's mission is to prepare promising students to think critically and creatively, to engage in active citizenship and pursue meaningful careers. The actions outlined above, combined with KSC's liberal arts core curriculum, help prepare students with both useful technical skills and the sorts of soft skills, such as problem solving and teamwork needed in today's rapidly changing work environment. Working cooperatively with business will help KSC do a better job of preparing students for their careers, and we look forward to working together.
Daniel Henderson
Corporate Relations Officer
Keene State College
Keene
Current Issue - May 2024