Department Spotlight - Innovation Outpost
Amarillo College's Innovation Outpost (IO) is the digital and physical front door for Workforce Training and Development for the Panhandle region, focusing on building industry partnerships in advanced manufacturing and cybersecurity.
In 2023-2024, the IO successfully delivered a range of programs leading to industry-recognized credentials. During this time, students earned over 100 credentials in one or more of the following: Cisco introduction to cybersecurity, operating basics, and computer hardware basics, EC Council Certified Secure Computer User (CSCU), Microsoft SC 900, and AZ 900.
This year, the IO will host the Panhandle Regional Manufacturer's Alliance (PRMA) in collaboration with East Campus and local employers. The Alliance promotes networking of manufacturers in the region and provides opportunities for them to learn about grant funding for workforce training. Allowing manufacturers to share insights into the challenges and opportunities facing their businesses and workforce, the IO can then collaborate with manufacturers to offer targeted, expedited, and aligned training programs for a cohort of business partners with similar needs. Also, this year, and in coordination with PRMA, the IO will offer a Manufacturer's Leadership Academy developed in collaboration with industry leaders to provide tailored training courses to prepare employees for supervisory positions.
Early next year, the IO will collaborate with Workforce Solutions Panhandle on the submission of Skills Development Fund grants from the Texas Workforce Commission for businesses to reskill and upskill the workforce by providing customized training. In coordination with AC Communications and Marketing, the IO will begin updating the IO Website to direct employers to the site to explore training opportunities.
The IO recently added new leadership, with Dr. Linda Muñoz as Dean of Innovation Outpost Operations & Programming and Kevin Cheek as Executive Director of Workforce Training and Development. Their focus is on enhancing existing programs and implementing rapid-response training initiatives for local industries.
Blog written by Dr. Linda Munoz and Kevin Cheek
