Building the Future of Tech Talent 

Written by College of Computing’s Shelby Harrison, director of marketing and communications, & Rachel Salinas, assistant dean 

Technology drives the modern world, reshaping industries, economies, and daily life. But innovation isn’t just about new advancements — it’s about the people who create them.

At the College of Computing, we believe that the future of technology lies in fostering the next generation of talented tech professionals who can lead and innovate.

In West Michigan, the demand for skilled tech professionals has never been higher. As businesses evolve, the region must cultivate a workforce ready to lead in an increasingly digital world.

Seventy-eight percent of West Michigan businesses identified tech as highly important to their strategy, and research estimates that three times as many tech graduates are needed by 2030 for West Michigan to remain economically significant.

To bridge this talent gap and fuel economic growth, we are launching a bold workforce development strategy focused on experiential learning, industry partnerships, and research-driven innovation. Our workforce development strategy aims to equip students with the skills and knowledge needed to thrive in a rapidly changing tech landscape. By emphasizing hands-on experience, strong industry connections, and cutting-edge research, we are creating a pipeline of highly skilled professionals who will drive innovation and ensure long-term economic vitality in West Michigan and beyond.

Workforce development is central to our broader Strategic Plan for 2030, which outlines three key goals

Achieving these milestones requires strategic investments in students, faculty, research, and industry engagement — a collective effort that will shape the region’s tech landscape.

At the core of this vision is a commitment to empowering students with the skills and experience to thrive in high-demand careers. From internships and co-ops to alumni mentorships and industry-sponsored projects, we ensure students gain real-world experience before they graduate.

But student success is just one part of the equation. Innovation and research fuel economic progress, and we are fostering an environment where faculty-led discoveries and industry-driven projects take center stage. By expanding research in AI, software engineering, and human-centered computing, we are positioning West Michigan as a hub for digital transformation

None of this would be possible without the faculty and staff leading the charge. Investing in their growth ensures GVSU remains as leaders in computing education, equipping students and professionals with the expertise to navigate an ever-changing tech landscape.

The Strategic Plan for 2030 is more than a roadmap — it’s a commitment to building a strong talent pipeline, driving innovation, and strengthening industry partnerships.
As we continue to grow, one thing is clear: this is just the beginning.

RETURN TO HOME