Illinois and the Midwest boast some of the top-ranking universities for technology in the United States, and around the world. Unfortunately, the best and brightest are recruited out of the region, hurting our businesses and the economy. Currently, Illinois ranks #6 in the nation with the biggest gap between open technology positions and qualified talent. That’s a brain drain we just cannot afford.
So we created the ITA Fall Challenge!
What is the goal of the Fall Challenge?
Simply put, we need to make students from the world-class universities in our backyard aware of the thriving local tech industry, and keep these students in our great state, growing our economy! Although Illinois has some of the top engineering and technology programs in the nation, too many leave our state, unaware of the local opportunities. The ITA Fall Challenge engages universities, alumni, and students with some of the world-class tech businesses who call the Midwest home, growing the awareness of the opportunities here in Illinois.
The Result?
We keep top talent here. In 2010, we connected with over 700 CS/CE students from 7 universities. In addition to a "Challenge" test with a $5,000 prize going to the top scoring student, many students have been hired and many underclassmen are doing internships which will lead to full-time positions upon graduation. All in Illinois. In 2011, we met over 1,000 students across 12 universities and invited 53 finalists to compete for Final Challenge prizes. The top performing undergrad and graduate student received cash prizes. We are gearing up for 2012 and look forward to the continual improvement of this great program.
What’s Next?
With the support of the Illinois Innovation Council (IIC), the ITA is doing even more in 2012. We will be engaging 11 universities in the region and will engage with over 1,000 students. ITA has also created the Fall Challenge Leadership Board, committed to developing an ongoing conversation with universities, industry leaders, civic organizations, and government to support the vibrant tech community. With economic recovery being led by technology-based companies, we must retain and attract talent to the region for the long-term health of the region.
If you are looking for the best and brightest, and you believe that the future of Illinois technology is contingent on talent, we encourage you to join us in the ITA Fall Challenge. Contact us at headquarters@illinoistech.org to find out more!