A couple of initiatives are in the works that intend to help local companies meet the demand for IT workers. One is a partnership between DMACC and several local companies (Drake University is creating new STEM-related infrastructure and degrees). The pipeline they want to create is a proactive approach to trying to meet the current and forecasted demand. If the majority of the local IT workforce mirrors the education background of the last 50 candidates we placed with local companies (see the graphic below), the degree isn't the problem, it's the number of people seeking one.  

25 THINGS ABOUT - LIZ NEAD  

Each month at the IT Leadership Forum, you'll encounter a subject matter expert who has a unique background. Liz Nead (Nead Inspiration), the featured speaker at the Forum in October, fits that description. Here are 25 reasons why:
 

1. I have seven children in our blended family, ranging from 25 to 10.
2. I was raised in Minneapolis.
3. I hated vegetables as a child, but now I LOVE them!
4. I'm Indian; my parents immigrated from Kerala, India.
5. As a result, I have a MEAN Indian accent.
6. I was a successful track and field athlete in high school and college. My specialty was the 400 meters.
7. My husband is a retired military officer and was an Army Ranger.
8. I'm hyperactive. No I really am.
9. My real name is not Elizabeth, it's Lizy.
10. I never stop talking, I fall sleep talking.
11. I climbed Mt. Kilimanjaro, summiting on July 4, 2014.
12. My big dream is to have a nationally-televised talk show.
13. I recently completed my first half-marathon in two hours.
14. I have twin boys who are 18. They are identical.
15. I make amazing curry.
16. I am a Vikings fan and I despise the Packers.
17. I co-authored an Amazon Best Seller.
18. I've been in an episode of television and had a small part in a feature film.
19. You can regularly see me on commercials in the Midwest, most recently for Unity Point.
20. Three years ago, I did a 30-day "intimacy" challenge and then spoke about it on stage in New York City.
21. I love television and pretty much watch everything through Hulu Plus.
22. I really hate horror films.
23. I have a terrible voice and people often think I should have a really good voice.
24. If I didn't speak, I would go to culinary school.
25. If culinary school didn't work out, I'm going to try hand as a stand-up comic.

Q. What's a typical day like in your business?
Liz: Every day is different. I spend time marketing myself, coaching people, speaking and creating new products to help people find their purpose and excel in their gifts.

Q. Who is your typical client?  

Liz: I work with men and women, people from all different backgrounds and professional experience from all over the world. The only common thread is they are big thinking, powerful leaders--people who want to make an impact on the world.

Q. How did you transition from the corporate world to Nead Inspiration and what was the motivation?
Liz: I transitioned during the recession, after my one and only layoff. I have always wanted to inspire others by speaking, coaching and writing. I always wanted to be on television as a powerful expert and I saw my chance to make my dreams happen! I truly believe anything is possible with passion, focus and consistency--particularly in this amazing country!

Q. Where do you get your energy?
Liz: You'll notice in my 25 things that I'm clinically hyperactive. I also feel a flow from my soul--this is what I was meant to do. And even when I think "this is it," I've run out of juice, I wake up the next day ready to go. It's an amazing, powerful feeling and I'm really grateful. 

Q. Who is your mentor?
Liz: My father. He is an excellent example as a father, husband, lover, friend, investor and presenter. He has lived his life (he's 74) with an integrity and compassion I will always strive for. He also helped me understand the power of balancing a professional and spiritual life. But I always have had coaches I hired to help me accomplish my goals. I still have so much to learn!