Featured Training Center: Cary, NC
Students go to the source when seeking SAS knowledge
Located at SAS' international headquarters, it's no surprise that the Cary, NC, training center is one of SAS Education's busiest. While visiting students are familiar with SAS' reputation for powerful software solutions, however, they're often surprised by what they find in Cary."Students who come to our corporate headquarters for training for the first time are most impressed by the beauty and size of the campus," says Education Services Representative Rochelle Whittle. The 200-acre campus is home to more than 4,000 employees and features such employee amenities as free on-site daycare, a gym and a natatorium. "And of course they're impressed with our southern charm and hospitality," Whittle adds with a smile.
"This training center is unique," agrees Education Services Representative Robin Bradley. Together, Bradley and Whittle oversee the day-to-day operations of the training center, greeting students, stocking the classrooms with materials and keeping everything running smoothly. "When students take a course at our Cary location they also have direct access to all of the resources here at SAS, such as publications, technical support and software sales."
Their manager, Education Services Manager Peggy Parker, is another familiar face around Cary's training center. Parker is a SAS veteran, having come to SAS the day the Cary training center opened 23 years ago. Parker says students are often so impressed that they don't want to leave. "I get asked questions like 'How can I get a job here?' Over time, I've seen some of these former students around campus wearing SAS badges."
The Cary training center is located in Building F, just inside the main campus entrance. Built in 1985, Building F is one of the older structures on campus but has seen recent renovations. The training center houses three state-of-the-art classrooms open to public training, as well as two classrooms designed to house internal training classes or public classes as the need arises, along with a 72-seat auditorium. The lobby area boasts a number of original art pieces and several geodes from CEO James Goodnight's personal collection, a plush lounge, a demonstration area and six computer workstations where students can check e-mail.
But most importantly, says Bradley, the Skylight Café is immediately adjacent to the training center. "A catered lunch is free for students, and they won't be disappointed," says Bradley. "You don't want to miss their berry crisps or the turkey dinners." The tinkling of piano keys can be heard during lunch from the café's baby grand, and co-founders James Goodnight and John Sall, who also call Cary home, are sometimes seen eating lunch with employees or family.
After lunch, students can join SAS employees in walking around the nearby lake if time permits. To get there, exit Building F and cross SAS Campus Drive. Follow the walking trail down to the lake and take in beautiful views of The Umstead Hotel and Spa, along with the lake's fountains and wildlife. Students may stop at one of several shady resting spots to reboot before heading back to class.
Don't forget to say 'hello' to our friendly staff when you visit. View more information on the Cary, NC, training center.
