The College of Business Administration (COBA) implemented Wildcat Software to give students further business experience.

Wildcat Software operates similar to a student-run company, complete with paid internships and its own chain-of-command, from a student CEO to its project developers. Wildcat Software has been operating for four years and specializes in projects ranging from computer software to designing mobile phone applications and websites.

“Students are getting real-world, hands-on experience doing the job that they are trying to get after they graduate,” said Rich Tanner, professor of Digital Entertainment Technology and Computer Science.

Wildcat Software emphasizes education by experience and acts as a bridge from graduation to the work force.

Tanner said he simply advises and acts as a mentor while the students run the show.

Wildcat Software is a branch of the Wildcat Ventures project. Tanner and other students in positions of leadership conduct interviews with students seeking to join.

“Wildcat Software is really cool because we give the software development students the opportunity to work on real work,”said David Vensel, senior marketing and management major from Portland, Oregon and current Wildcat Software CEO.

Vensel said Wildcat Software is extended to the local community, because they work on projects outside of the university.

“It looks really great on a resumé, and it is just great experience for them to develop themselves professionally,” Vensel said.

Vensel manages finances, budgeting and forecasting and advertises to potential clients.

“I’m just there to kind of get the group organized and get the group motivated,” Vensel said.

Wildcat Software places students in a professional environment with leaders and subordinates. Participating students work each day on tasks to benefit the university and outside consumers.

“Working with a diverse age group working in different fields is definitely a very valuable experience,” said Vensel.