SCC CAPS Technology Solutions

Our Spring Semester newsletter features CAPS associate internship highlights and dynamic classroom experiences. Explore the transformative internship journeys and engaging classroom activities that showcase the impact and opportunities within the CAPS program. Don't miss out – check out our newsletter today!

CAPS Associates have participated in unpaid internships over the past 12 weeks with diverse businesses and organizations throughout St. Charles County. This invaluable opportunity has enabled them to unlock real-world success, gain hands-on experience, and apply classroom knowledge in a professional environment. It's truly a win-win scenario – students flourish by acquiring practical skills, while businesses benefit from fresh perspectives. The internship experience effectively bridges the gap between education and career, fostering a synergy of growth for all involved! Below are some internship highlights by the associates.

During my internship, I enhanced my proficiency in design software such as Premiere Pro, Canva, and Captions. I gained insights into camera types, setup, audio integration, and optimal lighting. Additionally, I delved into marketing strategies by spearheading a referral project among realtors and creating online graphics and videos to educate potential clients about real estate. I discovered how to navigate professional interactions with colleagues, striking a balance between professionalism and camaraderie. I excelled in problem-solving by independently seeking solutions online before seeking assistance. Furthermore, I demonstrated adeptness in receiving feedback constructively and implementing it into my work.

I learned how to use ArcGIS Pro, ArcGIS Story Builder, and ArcGIS Experience Builder, while also enhancing my skills in ArcMAP. I discovered that I find joy in tasks that involve exploration and discovery, akin to a treasure hunt when given a map and tasked with finding specific information or points with minimal guidance. I excelled in optimizing workflows, consistently finding quicker methods to streamline tasks and increase efficiency.

Through my internship, I've accomplished a multitude of things, including meeting numerous new people and gaining invaluable experiences. I've successfully completed various projects, such as creating "Now Hiring" billboards, storm water assignments, app icons, the "Connecting at the Crossroad" video, establishing brand standards, and designing with Canva, among others. This experience has reinforced my belief in the power of hard work and perseverance. I've encountered challenges but learned that with determination and seeking guidance, anything is achievable. I firmly believe in continuous improvement and never giving up, even in the face of difficulty. I've excelled in time management, creativity, innovation, collaboration, and teamwork, and I've had ample opportunities to enhance these skills throughout my internship.

Through my internship, I gained proficiency in various tools and software, including Java, JavaScript, NodeJS, HTML, CSS, XML, Git, GitLab, Android Studios, and ATAK. I also improved soft skills like communication and problem-solving, particularly through collaboration with my project partner, Thomas. I developed a plugin for ATAK-Civ and created a website/webserver using NodeJS and Express to enhance ATAK-Civ's functionality. My internship revealed the expansive world of software development and ignited a passion for coding. Collaborating with Thomas taught me the value of curiosity and taking initiative, while my research skills allowed me to delve deeper into topics. Overall, I excelled in learning and making the most of the internship experience.

During my time at CAPS, I engaged in three distinct internships, each providing invaluable experiences in graphic design and digital media. I'm thankful for every opportunity and exposure afforded to me. At Francis Howell, I designed flyers for various appreciation days and actively participated in events, capturing footage, creating reels, and producing content for the school's social media platforms. During my internship at Little Black Book, I delved into videography, discovering a passion for it. I also gained experience in video editing for the Little Black Video project. Through these experiences, I made significant self-discoveries. A site visit at Switch solidified my interest in marketing alongside graphic design, while Little Black Book sparked my interest in pursuing videography as a career.

During my internship at Masterclock, I've gained valuable knowledge. I learned to use Git for version control, including pushing and pulling from remote repositories. Additionally, I became proficient in configuring and customizing Nagios for device testing via ssh, which was a major project. The supportive environment at Masterclock facilitated a smooth internship experience, and I discovered my interest in both software and hardware aspects of computers. Writing Nagios tests was a highlight, where I combined creativity with efficiency to produce effective solutions.

During my internship, I learned various programming languages, servers, and routes, and how they interact with each other. I discovered my passion for coding and software development. I excelled at handling numerous smaller coding tasks, finding solutions easily and completing them efficiently.

During my internship, I forged positive connections with my welcoming colleagues and crafted AI guide presentations and infographics, which I thoroughly enjoyed. I discovered my heightened adaptability and openness to change, whether in the work environment or in not becoming too attached to design prototypes. I excelled in punctuality and staying organized with assignments and tasks.

During my internship at Masterclock, I've developed a wide range of technical skills, including Git repository management, Python programming, Nagios monitoring, and testing in virtual machine environments. My ability to swiftly adapt and learn these tools has been crucial to my success. On the project front, I played a key role in developing tests for Masterclock's NTDS, LUX, Alpha, and GMR5000 references, enhancing the company's testing capabilities significantly. Throughout the internship, I discovered my preference for teamwork, finding it enjoyable and productive. However, I also valued independent work, which allowed me to deepen my understanding and skills in complex topics. I excelled in preparing and understanding base materials before diving into specific tasks, demonstrating a proactive approach in using a Virtual Machine at home to simulate advanced programming scenarios. Communication was another strong suit, both with supervisors and peers, ensuring clarity and effectiveness in project requirements and issue resolution, particularly in complex server setups, contributing to a smooth workflow within the team.

As we reflect on our CAPS associates' journey, we're immensely grateful for the unwavering support and commitment to their growth by our business partners: Velta Technology, Little Black Book: Women in Business, HiTek Limb & Brace, City of Wentzville Marketing and GIS Departments, O'Fallon Chambers of Commerce & Industries, Masterclock, Inc., Osteostrong, Stauder Technologies, Julie Colin, Realtor with Show Me Home Real Estate Team, and Boone Center Inc.

Their willingness to provide internship opportunities has enriched our students' lives, empowering them to thrive in real-world environments. Through mentorship, they've gained invaluable insights, honed practical skills, and cultivated soft skills for success in today's workforce.

We appreciate their investment of time, resources, and expertise in nurturing the next generation of leaders and fostering meaningful connections within our community.

On behalf of St. Charles County CAPS and our student body, we extend heartfelt thanks for their ongoing partnership and commitment to excellence. Together, we shape a brighter future for our youth and community.

Had an incredible time visiting St. Louis Community College Center for Workforce Innovation! Got firsthand experience witnessing the Boeing Composite and Sheet Metal Assembly Pre-Employment Program in action. Students were fully immersed in hands-on demonstrations, gearing up for assembly mechanic roles at Boeing. What's more? St. Louis Community College offers not one, but two training pathways for this opportunity. Best part? It's completely FREE! Huge shoutout to Milos Kelli and Becky Epps for organizing this eye-opening experience and hosting St. Charles County CAPS.

St. Charles County CAPS students had the incredible opportunity to explore cutting-edge innovations at the Microsoft Center, where they delved into the world of Machine Learning and witnessed firsthand how AI is revolutionizing industries. Huge thanks to Tracey Cooley for organizing and hosting this enriching experience!

The highlight of the day was the engaging career panel, where industry experts generously shared their career journeys, insights, and guidance with our students. Special appreciation to each panelist Travis Neely, Luke Newport, Jenny Bartlow and R. Brent Joy for their invaluable contributions.

A standout moment was Taliya King’s workshop on design thinking. As a representative from Accenture Taliya connected with our students in a profound way, making the complex process of design thinking accessible and inspiring. Her engagement with the class was truly memorable!

We're thrilled to announce the launch of our brand-new website: www.scccapstech.org! 🚀 Designed to create awareness and promote our class offerings to prospective students, this platform is your go-to destination for all things St. Charles County CAPS Creative Media Engineering and Applied Technology strand.

Explore our innovative programs, and discover how we're shaping the future of education in collaboration with our industry partners. Check out testimonials from business partners, CAPS alumni and parents about the impact of the St. Charles County CAPS program.

The energy was electric at our recent St. Charles County CAPS Accepted Student Nights, where prospective students delved into the essence of our program and its expectations. With anticipation building for the 2024-2025 school year, we're thrilled to welcome over 30 enthusiastic students to our strand. Throughout the evening, attendees gained valuable insights into the unique nature of our program and what lies ahead. From innovative projects to hands-on experiences, the possibilities are limitless. We're excited to embark on this journey together and create a dynamic CAPS experience for our new cohort group. Here's to a fantastic year ahead with St. Charles County CAPS!

End of Year Celebration (May 14): The End-of-Year Celebration will take place at the St. Peters Cultural Arts Center from 6-8 pm, featuring a showcase of associates' projects followed by the CAPS graduation ceremony. The last day of CAPS is Friday, May 24!

Email: john.omoresemi@scccaps.org
Website: http://scccapstech.org/
Location: Lewis and Clark Career Center, Zumbehl Road, Saint Charles, MO, USA
Phone: 636-362-4051
Facebook: facebook.com/scccaps
Twitter: @scccapstech