The CIIT Placement Office recently hosted “Strengths Unlocked: Bridging Skill Gaps and Building Industry-Relevant Skills,” a workshop designed to equip first- and second-year students with essential tools for career development. Held on February 7, 2025, at the 2F Library Left Wing, the session provided a space for students to explore goal-setting, skill-building, and career alignment strategies.
Bridging the Gap: Purpose and Career Readiness
Facilitated by Ms. Jessica Rae Digol and moderated by Ms. Maria Sophia Hilario, the workshop introduced students to the fundamental elements of career development. Discussions centered around Knowledge, Skills, Abilities, and Other Characteristics (KSAOs), competency frameworks, and skill gap analysis, helping students understand how these factors influence job qualifications. By diving deep into these topics, participants gained insights into what employers look for and how they can prepare for future opportunities.
Engaging Activities for Hands-On Learning
The session included two interactive activities designed to reinforce key concepts. In the Match Me: Job and Skills Matching Case Study, students analyzed job applications, identifying potential challenges based on an applicant’s skills and background. This exercise emphasized the importance of aligning personal qualifications with job expectations. The Skills Gap Analysis and Development Plan encouraged students to reflect on their long-term goals and identify the skills they need to develop. By mapping out their career paths, they were able to establish a clearer direction and understand the steps required to achieve their aspirations.
Key Highlights and Takeaways
The intimate setting allowed for a more interactive experience, where students felt comfortable sharing their thoughts and supporting one another. The workshop not only helped participants gain career insights but also fostered new friendships as students connected over shared aspirations.
Many attendees expressed appreciation for the session, highlighting its impact on their career planning. One participant shared how the workshop helped them recognize the skills they need to improve, while another enjoyed the immersive activities that allowed them to step into the mindset of a hiring officer. Others found value in learning about SMART goals and the KSAO method, appreciating how these frameworks could help them set clear and achievable career objectives.
Looking Ahead: A Continued Journey
As part of a three-part series, the final session is set to take place in June 2025, where students will further refine their career strategies. For those who need additional guidance, the CIIT Placement Office offers a Career Coaching Program, providing personalized support to help students navigate their professional paths.
Through initiatives like this, CIIT continues to uphold its commitment to bridging skill gaps and preparing students for success in the industry. With every workshop, students are empowered to take proactive steps toward building fulfilling careers, proving that the journey to professional growth begins with self-awareness and strategic planning.
About CIIT College of Arts and Technology
CIIT College of Arts and Technology is the leading institution in the Philippines specializing in Multimedia Arts, Game Development, Technology, and Business Education. Focused on industry-relevant learning, CIIT equips students with practical skills, technological expertise, and real-world experience to excel in the creative and digital industries.
With 15 years of excellence, CIIT has built a strong reputation for producing top-caliber professionals in creative and tech-driven fields. 61%* graduates secure employment immediately, reflecting the school’s industry-aligned curriculum, state-of-the-art facilities, and hands-on learning. CIIT is also home to two cutting-edge architectural landmarks, Interweave and Glitch, in Quezon City, designed to inspire creativity and collaboration.
*Rate of graduating students from Batch 2024 (AY 2023-2024) secured employment on or before their graduation day.
Media Contacts:
CIIT College of Arts and Technology
Trunkline: (+632) 8441-1816 / 8441-0737
Kathleen Doma
kathleen.doma@ciit.edu.ph
Abbygail Jann Canono
abbygail.canono@ciit.edu.ph