DETROIT — IT in the D re-launched today as ExperienceIT with a program kick-off event at the Grand Circus training center downtown. Out of nearly 200 applicants, 45 students have been chosen to participate in the innovative program.

IT in the D, founded in 2012, is the collaboration between leading information technology organizations and workforce agencies in Detroit. Marking an evolution of the IT in the D program, ExperienceIT is designed to transition students from the classroom to the workplace through real world IT projects, mentorship, and training as they advance their technology careers. The partner companies will guarantee successful graduates employment ranging from internships to full-time positions.

The 8-week training initiative — scheduled to begin June 23rd — was originally founded by Quicken Loans, GalaxE.Solutions, Title Source, Fathead, Marketing Associates, and Workforce Intelligence Network. ExperienceIT also counts among its new partners Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan, DTE, Grand Circus, Detroit Employment Solutions Corporation, and Tanner Friedman Strategic Communications.

“After two years, we took a step back, reviewed lessons learned and then refocused our efforts on evolving our curriculum to provide even greater value to our students,” said Linglong He, CIO of Quicken Loans and ExperienceIT Chair. “These individuals represent the future for our region and technological innovation in general. As we continue to build Detroit’s IT hub, we want these individuals to stay here for rewarding careers and lives.”

Students will learn in a working environment using technologies such as .Net, Java, SQL Server, MY SQL, and PHP. Soft skills such as interpersonal communication, teamwork, and job interviews will also be a key component of the updated core focus. Classes will run 8 hours a day, 5 days a week over the two month program period.

To learn more about ExperienceIT, go to ExperienceITdetroit.com.