New offerings fuel region’s talent pool

We’re hearing it more and more about Tacoma-Pierce County. Companies want to tap into our pool of talent and expertise, and the University of Washington Tacoma is a big reason why. National cybersecurity company Infoblox was drawn to Tacoma because of the quality of UWT Institute of Technology graduates. And innovative programs through the UWT Milgard School of Business further compliment and strengthen the Tacoma-Pierce County business community and fuel the region’s economic vitality.

This month, we take a look at the new UWT Milgard School of Business Center for Business Analytics, which launches this quarter.

Unlocking data, finding solutions

In today’s complex and ever-changing business world, organizations need to apply innovative approaches to achieve successful outcomes. Enter business analytics, a process that focuses on understanding, managing and using big data to make effective and efficient decisions. To respond to the need for cutting-edge expertise and knowledge in the field, and connect businesses with what they need to unlock and utilize valuable data, the UWT Milgard School of Business has launched the Center for Business Analytics (CBA). Under the direction of Haluk Demirkan, PhD, a globally recognized leader and expert in business analytics and service innovation, the center is dedicated to two primary goals: increase impact and awareness through research, education and service; and drive engagement between business and academics.

“Businesses in Tacoma-Pierce County face many challenges, as well as opportunities to grow and be competitive,” Demirkan said. “The data they own and how they use it can set them apart. The Center for Business Analytics is a unique resource that can help organizations learn how to be successful in their big data journey and in today’s digital economy.”

Key components of the CBA include:

• Student education: A STEM-designated Master of Science in Business Analytics (MSBA) is the first program of its kind offered through the UW system. Undergraduate classes are in development.
• Executive/professional development. Short courses are offered for professionals interested in business analytics, service and digital transformation, and technology innovation.
• Problem-focused research. The CBA works with companies to identify, frame and study critical business issues, and opportunities that can help cut costs, increase efficiency and streamline operations.
• Advisory Board/Corporate partnership: Corporate partners represent a range of industry sectors with diverse business interests and problems to advance the science of data and innovation.

This month, the CBA is prepping for its inaugural Student-as-Adaptive Innovators program. Over seven to nine months, teams of advanced MSBA students and researchers will consult with companies at no cost on existing business problems or opportunities. Teams will collect data, provide analysis and make strategic recommendations.

It’s a win-win scenario all around. Participating businesses benefit from creative, out-of-the-box thinking and innovative approaches, and students get to apply their studies and develop professional skills. Companies interested in participating in future sessions may contact Jaime Core, CBA program manager, at [email protected] for more information.