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Hanover Research | December 2017 <br /> © 2017 Hanover Research 12 <br />opportunities similar to what respondents suggested.29 The “Skills” section below discusses <br />these in detail. Frischemeier suggested a workforce readiness certificate for high school <br />students (in her words, “something kids could work toward”). <br /> <br />SKILLS NEEDED <br />Local employers agreed on several skills that are in demand in Orange County that Durham <br />Tech can help provide. There are three general areas in which Durham Tech can meet the <br />local need for skills training (Figure 1.4): computer and office skills, oral and written <br />communication, and professionalism (mainly related to interviewing). Note that all these <br />skills are related to existing Durham Tech programs (mostly those offered through its main <br />campus). <br /> <br />Figure 1.4: Worker Skills Needed in Orange County <br /> <br /> <br />COMPUTER AND ADMINISTRATIVE SKILLS <br />Computer, technology, and related administrative skills are a definite <br />need in the Orange County workforce – every interview participant <br />mentioned this area. Relevant skills include “ability to use basic office <br />software” and entry-level “administrative skills.” However, other <br />participants mentioned the need for more advanced workers, such as <br />being “able to learn the most recent trends” in technology, including <br />new software or updated computers. 30 Some participants suggested <br />“social media” and “managing websites” as particular areas of need.31 <br /> <br /> <br />29 “Workforce Development.” https://www.durhamtech.edu/noncredit/workforce.htm <br />30 Interview with Dinah Jeffries. <br />31 Interview with Sonia Frischemeier. <br />•Internet, social media, and graphics <br />•Office software (e.g., Word, Excel, PowerPoint) <br />Computer and Office <br />•Writing skills <br />•Oral communication, especially for managers <br />Communication <br />•Applying and interviewing for jobs <br />•Appropriate attire, social media persona, personal presentation <br />Professionalism