Entry-level support specialists often work on simple problems. Over time, they may advance to positions that handle questions on complex software or equipment. Many of these workers advance to other IT positions, such as network and computer systems administrators or software developers. Some become managers in the computer support services department.
Just recently J. Kent’s Staffing Manager’s completed a search for this type of entry-level talent for a Denver non-profit, specializing in organizational development for public and private community centered organizations. Although several IT experts were already on staff, the firm was ready to hire a top entry-level, bilingual candidate to add to their dynamic information services team.
J. Kent’s Staffing Managers knew that this search would be a challenge. They also knew that the expectations of the organization’s professional staff, who work in such fields as: financial, human resources, project management, media, grant writing, and contract negotiations and acquisition, were high. The right combination was needed. A degree in Computer Information Systems and Management Science was preferred, however, other important skills and abilities were also given a significant weighting. The entry-level IT Specialist that our client was seeking must also bring to the interview the following:
After several weeks of searching, J. Kent Staffing Manager’s identified Dagiadi, a Mexican national who moved to the U.S. 9 years ago to attend university. Dagiadi’s story is a contemporary example of pursuing the American Dream, the idea of which is strongly rooted in the United States Declaration of Independence, and our national ethos that the opportunity for prosperity and success is achieved through hard work.
The opportunity to go to university in the United States landed the adventuresome Dagiadi in Iowa. Unfortunately, the passionate, newly minted university student who had cultivated competitive salsa dancing skills in Mexico, found no outlet for his passion in Iowa. He naturally assumed that everyone danced the salsa. Unfortunately for Dagiadi, it was not so. With more friends and family in Denver, and confirmed salsa dancing opportunities in our great city, Dagiadi moved to the “Mile High City” and entered Metropolitan State College.
The pursuit of the American Dream required Dagiadi to work full-time while attending school. For seven years, Dagiadi worked 40 hours a week as a Server, Team Lead, and finally Opening Manager for a national pancake chain in Denver, Colorado. Ambitious, hard-working and eager, Dagiadi completed his Bachelor of Science in Computer Information Systems and Management Science; graduating in the fall of 2011. While working and attending Metropolitan State College, Dagiadi continued to nurture his salsa passion by competing locally, and all around the county in national dance competitions.
The picture in Dagiadi’s Placement Story shows him competing in a salsa dancing competition at the Latin World Cup.
Source: U.S. Department of Labor, Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Outlook Handbook