August 2, 2018 Robin Witte
AFFORDABLE TUITION AND PRACTICAL FOCUS
For many, having children means big changes in their lives. Jacob Visovatti is no exception.
Classically trained in cello, voice and conducting from Ball State University, Visovatti wanted to find a career that allowed him the opportunity to support a new baby while not feeling like he had to grind away at the music industry for years. “I wanted to find something that offered real-life problem solving and creative challenges—like those that I enjoy working through as a musician.”
Initially, he found work as an implementation specialist for a technology education company. It was while working there that he began to develop an interest in computer programming.
Visovatti knew he would need training in order to find good employment. And, living in West Virginia with his wife and newborn son, he had many local college options available while he looked to jumpstart a new occupation. Instead, he turned to online classes offered from Washtenaw Community College.
“I could have taken online classes from any school,” he recalled. “But I had heard specific stories from people I knew about WCC being a vital path to their success in the programming industry. The combination of affordable tuition, practical focus and reputation of WCC made it an easy choice.”
As a Saline native, Visovatti set a plan to change his career path and move back to Ann Arbor where he says there is an overwhelming need for talent, and many opportunities to learn the industry and network.
“I was at a point in my life where I had to recognize the responsibility to managing my time in order to find the career success I wanted. Once I started at WCC I was impressed with the practical nature of the courses.”
He achieved his goal by landing a job as a software apprentice at Pillar Technology—a technology consulting company located in downtown Ann Arbor.
“For around three months, apprentices study and train with senior team members, gaining additional experience on real-world challenges. I’ll be graduating from the program right around the time my second child arrives.”
WCC offers 18 degree programs that are available completely online in Information Technology, Business and Transfer Programs designed to seamlessly transfer to a four-year degree.
What is a computer programmer?
Computer programmers write and test code that allows computer applications and software
programs to function properly. They turn
the program designs created by software developers and engineers into instructions
that a computer can follow.
Source: bls.gov
$40,000 average salary for a computer programmer
Most computer programmers have a bachelor’s degree; however, some employers hire workers with an associate’s degree. The average salary for a computer programmer with an associate degree is $40,000, according to the job site Simply Hired.