Meet the ASPE Instructors. Q & A with Jerry Durant.

Written by Kestrel Lemen on March 4th, 2010

Jerry, what courses do you currently teach?

The courses I’m directly involved with are Managing Outsourced/Offshore Projects, Agile High Speed Testing, Software Testing Techniques, The Test Automation Workshop, and Web Testing Fundamentals.  I also have taught a wide array of Agile related programs (since I’m both a ScrumMaster & Certified Scrum Practioner) and Unified Model Language (UML).

Can you tell our readers a little about your background?  What recent activities have you been involved in that are relevant to the courses you instruct?

I started many years ago as a compiler developer (while still in High School) and have had over 35 years working in the Information Technology sector.  My last employment was as Division Director of Test Engineering for AT&T before commencing my consulting practice in 1988.  Even from those earlier years I have also recognized the relevant importance of testing as an integral part of the software engineering discipline.  If one cannot prove that the software behavior is sound than it leaves a lot to the unknown.

What real-world skills can these courses teach people that they can take directly to their jobs?

I always try to present two dimensions in the training events; the pragmatic purest perspective and the practical implementation of the concept.  There are Click to continue »

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See What Current Job Seekers Are Saying About The ASPE Scholarship Program!

Written by Kestrel Lemen on February 22nd, 2010

ASPE_Scholarship_ProgramThe US unemployment rate is more than 10% and many Americans are finding it harder and harder to find a job in this highly competitive job market.  The ASPE Scholarship Program was introduced to help those who have recently lost their jobs and see the real-world value in keeping their skills sharp.  Whether it’s PMP Boot Camp or a Hands-On Microsoft SharePoint Workshop, the ASPE Scholarship Program will help you advance your career and get you the training you need.

“I think that this scholarship program is an excellent example of what a company can do to help!!  I believe it’s a good program,  a Win Win if I’ve ever seen one.”- Bill T

Did you know that IT Project Management was voted #5 in CNNMoney.com’s Best Jobs in America?

Yah that’s right! Or that according to the US Department of Labor the software engineering field is predicted to grow 34% by 2018! ASPE offers you the training you need for today’s (and tomorrow’s) hottest jobs!

The ASPE Scholarship Program makes training affordable, letting you attend any ASPE course for just $350. In some cases saving applicants more than $1,800.  Last year ASPE awarded over $60,000 in scholarships to over 40 different job seekers.  If you are a current job seeker, this is the training that will put you on the path to finding not only a new position, but a better paying one! Now is your chance to get top-notch training at an affordable price. Don’t wait, take advantage of this program and get the hands-on real-world training you need!

In response to the popularity of the Scholarship Program, ASPE has extended the deadline for applications! We realize how valuable this training can be for job seekers and want to give you the edge you need to compete in today’s job market. Applications will now be accepted until June 30th, SO don’t wait! This is your way of getting the skills you need to find a new position! Apply for the ASPE Scholarship Program.

See what recent Scholarship recipients are saying…

“The scholarship allowed me to take a four-day workshop that I would otherwise not be able to consider.  It has given me greater confidence in my job search.  Up to this point, my title on my resume of Business Analyst was more of an internal title at the company I last worked and was promoted to this position.  It did not require knowledge in the tools and formal discipline of an industry defined Business Analyst.  After the course, I now have knowledge of what a true business analyst professional does. I now know how to employ formal BA analysis processes for any business problem or opportunity.  I intend to take another course in Agile Boot Camp in March using the scholarship.”

- Leona M

“Since being laid off in May 2009, I had wanted to pursue the Certified ScrumMaster because Agile and ScrumMaster were included in many job postings that I was interested in. The cost at $1295 was too much due to my unemployment.  When I heard of the scholarship, I was thrilled.  I quickly filled out the paperwork and was approved.  I attended the class in December 2009.  I took the exam in January 2010 and I passed.  It was a great class.  Thank you so much for the scholarship program.”

- Martha H

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February Savings from The ASPE-SDLC Blog

Written by JT Moore on February 5th, 2010

Winter weather got you down?

We’ve had a miserable winter by NC-standards, so we are looking to turn things around.  Lucky for you that translates into saving for you!

Get 25% Off when you register for any of our upcoming February public courses. This is the perfect time to snatch up that training you missed in 2009. The discount applies to all public courses offered this month by any of the ASPE Family of Companies, so if you haven’t looked around our other sites recently see if anything strikes your fancy.

To take advantage of this offer enter BLOGSAVINGS at checkout or call your ASPE Training Advisor directly and mention the code.

The only thing shorter than a North Carolina winter is this limited time offer only available through our Blog, so act fast!

* Offer good on public courses delivered between February 8th – 28th. Some exclusions apply. Eligible courses are subject to change. For a complete list of courses contact your ASPE Training Advisor.
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Join Us at Scrum Gathering in Orlando, March 8-10th

Written by JT Moore on February 2nd, 2010

We are  proud to sponsor the Orlando Scrum Gathering for the  second straight year.  Please come by and visit our booth, we will be giving away some goodies as usual.

Join us and Scrum Member from around the world on March 8th – 10th in sunny Orlando, FL.  If you are interested in attending the gathering, you can get more information at www.scrumgathering.org or www.scrumalliance.org.

The event is a great place to gather expert insight for evaluating and incorporating Scrum. Both newbies and experienced Scrum practitioners will learn from other experienced practitioners, Scrum founders & leaders in the Agile community during 3 full days of presentations, deep-dive workshops, open spaces. Scrum legends and Agile leaders in attendance include Jeff Sutherland, Kent Johnson, Harrison Owen, Luke Hohmann, Karl Scotland and many others!

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Take Part in Our 2010 Project Management Salary Survey

Written by JT Moore on January 15th, 2010

We have partnered with TenStep to develop a salary survey specifically for the Project Management industry. Your responses will help us shed some light on the perceived need and value of the PM, as well as variables that impact wages & opportunities. After collecting & analyzing the responses to the survey we will present our findings in a future whitepaper and web seminar. We appreciate you time and feedback.

Take Part in the 5-Minute Survey

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ASPE Instructor Conference 2010

Written by JT Moore on January 6th, 2010

On January 5th and 6th we held the 2010 Instructor Conference here in Cary, NC. Between the two days of meetings and discussions we took a trip over to Chef Mario’s in Raleigh for some fun and team building.

As a group we prepared a 5 course meal that was fit for a king (not to mention feed 40 people). Menu items included:

  • Prosciutto wrapped Shrimp
  • Steakhouse Bruschetta
  • Orange Glazed Salmon
  • Mashed Potato Sweet Potato Swirl
  • Pistachio Crusted Chicken Breast
  • Berries in Pappillote
  • Chocolate Mousse

A great time and meal was had by all. The highlight of evening for me had to be the unveiling of Carrot-Henge, developed by all of us on Team 4 (see below). The event at Chef Mario’s will definitely raise the bar for future conferences. A HUGE thanks to the Chef Mario’s Staff and the ASPE Crew who put the event together.

Pictures from the Event:

A Lil’ Showing Off by Chef Mario himself (video):

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Happy New Years from ASPE!

Written by JT Moore on December 30th, 2009

We hope you all have a safe and lovely New Years!

Thanks to everyone who helped make 2009 a great year despite the tough economy, and we look forward to what 2010 brings.

We are happy to announce that Katie Cothran has joined our team as a Marketing Specialist, and will be focused on helping improve our direct mail marketing in 2010 and beyond.

If we don’t talk to you before Friday, we’ll see you in 2010. Be safe in your celebrations. Think long and hard about those new year resolutions, and if we can help in any way please let us know.

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