Application Deadline: Closed
Program Dates: To Be Determined
What Is the DSIA?
The Digital Services Innovation Academy (DSIA) is a one of kind, 10-week program designed to introduce the tools and skills required to transform a business problem from concept to product using design and development principles found in modern digital service development. Cutting edge course topics include Game Theory, User Interface (UI)/User Experience (UX), Blockchain, Artificial Intelligence (AI)/Machine Learning, DevSecOps (Development Security Operations), and Product Ownership. Students will participate in a digital services Team Innovation Challenge where they apply the concepts and knowledge learned to create solutions to specific digital challenges the State faces.
The program includes 20 days of formal instruction in addition to designated lab days to prepare for the Challenge. Students will have access to an experienced Program Coach who will provide guidance and support. The total program cost is $4800 per participant. Developers, web and graphic designers, program managers, data analysts, enterprise architects, data scientists, project managers, business analysts, and communication specialists are encouraged to apply.
How it Works
DSIA students have the rare opportunity to expand their skills in a variety of areas critical for the state’s digital workforce through classroom instruction and a digital services Team Innovation Challenge. As they develop and enhance their skills in the areas of design, ideation, and platforms/development tools, students will also learn about effective communication methods, team dynamics, and emotional intelligence.
Professional Development
Participants will interact with peers, class instructors, subject matter experts, executives, the DSIA Program Coach, and former DSIA students throughout the duration of the Academy.
Team Innovation Challenge
An integral component of the DSIA is the Team Innovation Challenge, which allows students to leverage the knowledge and skills they gain throughout the Academy to develop viable solutions to statewide digital problems.
Topics are carefully determined by the Executive Sponsor and are based on current digital challenges the state faces. Throughout the Academy, each assigned team works collaboratively under the guidance of the Executive Sponsor and Program Coach to create both a presentation and solution (application) that demonstrates their understanding of the unique problem associated with their specific challenge. The approach to addressing the business need and the proposed solution represents the students’ culminating experience in the Academy.
Teams present and demonstrate their Challenge solution to an executive panel as well to their peers, sponsors, and supervisors at the DSIA graduation.
Below are our 2019 Innovation Challenge Teams along with a brief description of their solutions:
Team CaliAm
Team CaliAm tackled the tough issue of homelessness by creating a digital identification solution to help impacted citizens gain access to critical services such as medical care, job training, housing, and social services.
Team eAmber
Team eAmber created an enhanced Amber alert application to support our citizens’ ability to respond and recover abducted individuals by engaging citizens as part of the solution.
Team CalCoin
Team CalCoin developed their own application to provide a digital currency solution that would provide citizens with the ability to instantaneously interact with State programs to procure goods and services without the need for a third party vendor or system.
How to Apply
The DSIA application period is now closed. For questions contact OPD@state.ca.gov.