Introduction

Changes in the Office Automation industry place increasingly high demands on the training of technicians servicing image processing equipment. Today's era of network-connected multifunctional and color devices require a solid understanding of the fundamental technology concepts.

Blend this fact with the very difficult challenge for service organizations to find and keep qualified people to support these products creates the need for an alliance between service organizations and educational institutions.

Partnership in Education is Ricoh Americas Corporation program to develop the technical skills of community college and vocational school students in the Office Automation industry. It is designed to supplement existing technology curriculum at education institutions and to provide students with the knowledge and experience to perform as an entry level technician. Students completing this innovative offering will be qualified to begin their careers in the office automation industry upon graduation.

Partnerships between educational institutions and technology companies are paramount to ensure the future success of students entering the work force. Schools benefit from a program that sends graduates directly to work from the classroom. Dealerships reap the benefits of hiring new employees who have already learned and understand the industry, reducing the amount of training time.