A conversation with Joe Petrosky, Vice Chancellor for Economic & Workforce Development at Oakland Community College
Workshifter spoke with Mr. Petrosky about the difference between IT and technology and how that distinction shapes career thinking. He explains that technology is a broad umbrella, covering areas like industrial, manufacturing, and repair technologies, while IT is a specific subset focused on information systems and business-oriented tech functions. Although the terms are often used interchangeably, they represent different scopes.
From a career and education perspective, it is useful to have a focus on how technology-driven roles now span far beyond traditional IT jobs. Using General Motors as an example, modern industries—once seen as purely manufacturing—now rely heavily on embedded technologies, making them effectively technology companies.
This broader view means students should think not only about what tech specialty they want (e.g., cybersecurity) but also where they want to apply it—automotive, finance, healthcare, manufacturing, and more. Community colleges can help students map these pathways.
Finally, Mr. Petrosky reinforces that technology functions cut horizontally across all industries. A field of study like IT can lead to roles in transportation, retail, healthcare, or manufacturing. Companies themselves highlight this by showcasing the wide range of tech, HR, finance, and administrative roles that support even something as simple as a municipal bus system.
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Expert Spotlights are featured interviews, conversations, and announcements sourced through our event series, audio podcast, and newsmaker interviews — developed with the support of industry partners and sponsors.
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