Data analytics is becoming an increasingly important field in the workforce – with more information at our fingertips, savvy professionals know how to turn that knowledge into better business. As such, Francis Tuttle Technology Center, one of five schools a part of Onward OKC, a technology center compact, is excited to launch its new, fast-track Data Analytics program. This virtual training program will directly benefit businesses in Oklahoma by equipping more individuals with data analysis skills.

In fact, data analytics are relevant across industries. Whether it be finance, technology or oil and gas, each type of business can use data analytics to collect information about their internal operations and external audiences to become more competitive and grow. Data analytics knowledge is necessary from the shop floor to the top floor, in every position and level.

Oklahoma’s future will benefit from companies investing in employees who understand data-driven research and results, which is why Francis Tuttle recently opened this program to the larger public after almost two years of collaboration and development with experts and local businesses. Initially a sister program to the OERB PetroTech program, when the COVID-19 pandemic hit, Francis Tuttle got creative and began testing the program online.

Rod Castor, data analytics expert and professor of this new program, points out a common misconception in business when it comes to data analytics.

“Businesses often think that hiring a data analyst right when they seek information is helpful, but this doesn’t provide a long-term solution or educate employees on what the data communicates,” he said. “When businesses utilize their existing subject matter experts and upscale their workforce with new data analysis skills, they’ll find greater, long-standing results.”

Now, those already in the workforce have the opportunity to gain valuable knowledge and elevate their skill set by analyzing data in their department. This program will help produce more efficient and accurate reports leading to better productivity and bottom-line results for businesses.

Castor also highlights several important components that make this program so beneficial.

“There’s a significant gap in education over data analytics in Oklahoma without pursuing a full college degree,” he said. “This program is not only a huge step for individuals but moves the needle tremendously for businesses in any industry.”

For individuals, what sets this new program apart from others is its low cost and short duration. Only 10 months, the online class aims to be as flexible as possible for students, particularly working adults. Other programs may offer the same education but are more expensive and oftentimes only taught through pre-recorded videos. Francis Tuttle’s program is taught by a live professor via Zoom, offers office hours and flexible working hours. Students will learn both conceptual and technical principles, such as Google Analytics, SQL and Python.

Open to everyone 17 and older, Francis Tuttle’s new Data Analytics course serves to fill a high-demand sector in the Oklahoma workforce and assist individuals in advancing their skill sets to reach higher opportunities. Learn more at www.francistuttle.edu.

Cody Mosley is director of workforce and economic development at Francis Tuttle Technology Center.

This story originally ran on the JournalRecord.com.