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Academy of Information Technology
Whether you plan on being a doctor, lawyer, or business owner, knowledge of the computer is a necessity in today’s workplace. Entering the AOIT program means gaining an understanding of a technical field that could lead to a career in Information Technology or to support another chosen field. If you are interested in Programming, Database Programming, Web Design, Video Game Programming, and many more IT positions that are available, this may be the academy for you!
Success in Information Technology
It is recommended that you have an A/B average and a motivation to learn before entering this career field. You must be motivated to work in a group setting as well as have the ability to work independently. You should be a leader rather than a follower and become disciplined to achieve goals in a timely manner. Meeting deadlines is a large part of IT work ethics and procrastination is not an option in this field.
Mr. Beck's method of training encompasses, research, textbooks, verbal and visual training, and hands on usage of the skills taught in the classroom.
Sophomore Year Classes
Intro to Information Technology:
This class is focused mainly on the advancements made in technology over the years. Some time will be taken to research different careers in the Information Technology fields so that students can get an early start on future planning
AOIT Programming / Database:
This class is the start of your computer programming training. You will learn different numbering systems including Binary, Hexadecimal, Octal, and even learn how to convert them to and from each other. This is when you will really get started with C++, a higher level programming language. You will stick with more of the basics with C++ with things like basic syntax, operators, controls structures, loops, and functions.
Junior Year Classes
AOIT Tech Support / Networking:
A general networking class that covers a bit more than the basics. You will learn the components of a computer, the different types of computers, the different types of networks and where each type is best utilized. If you are looking to go into a field with strictly networking, Cisco will be the
way to go.
Database Fundaments:
This is an Oracle based class that teaches you how to design a database. This class will teach you what a database needs to hold, and how the information will relate to each other. In addition you will learn how to communicate with the client and be able to extrapolate the client’s needs in order to create the database required.
Data Control and Function:
This is an Oracle based class that picks up where Database Fundamentals leaves off. You now move into Oracle's SQL and its concepts of use within the database.
Senior Year Classes
AOIT Web / Digital Media:
This class is more of an advanced Web Design course. You will create web pages using the Macromedia Studio 8 suite (Flash, Dreamweaver, Fireworks, and Contribute) and other applications that are useful in Web presentation. You will also learn video production using the Adobe Production Studio Suite (Photoshop CS2, Adobe Premiere Pro, After Effects).
Specialized Database Programming:
This is an Oracles based class continuing on with Java programming. You will learn more advanced concepts of this OOP language. Topics included are arrays, multithreading programming, exception handling, and applets.
Job Opportunities
Job opportunities are abundant in this field. Job placement in our ACE program for seniors is an option and currently we are unable to fill all the job requests we have. Although it is long, please take some time to read:
U.S. Department of Labor's view on IT jobs.
• The rapid spread of computers and information technology has generated a need for highly trained workers to design and develop new hardware and software systems and to incorporate new technologies."
• Computer systems analysts, database administrators, and computer scientists are expected to be among the fastest growing occupations through 2012."
• "Average annual earnings of computer systems analysts were $62,890 in 2002. The mean earned between $49,500 and $78,350 a year."
• "A bachelor's degree is a prerequisite for many jobs; however, some jobs may require only a 2-year degree."
College and Post Graduate Studies
There are some excellent opportunities for AOIT WFHS graduates to continue with their education. Locally PJC offers many two year programs in a variety of IT professions. UWF offers many programs for 4 year as well as Masters and Doctorate programs in the IT field. Students have also enrolled in programs from South Florida to Washington State in colleges specializing in gaming programming to digital design specialty degrees. The opportunity for continued education is both encouraged and required to obtain salaries far exceeding the average.
Articulation Agreements
We currently have an articulation agreement with University of West Florida and Pensacola Junior College and continue to work with other educational institutes to create additional opportunities for our IT graduates. We are the only Academy at West Florida High School to have an articulation agreement with a 4 year college.
Interested?
Above anything, do you what you love to do. The last thing you'd want is to be stuck in something that doesn't make you happy. Feel free to talk to Mr. Beck about any questions you may have.