Realizing that all successful businesses and industries are dependent on educated, highly skilled laborers, the goal of workforce development is to enhance the skills of the current workforce as well as provide useful and relevant skills to those seeking to enter the workforce. Workforce development programs offer hope to many, especially youth struggling to enter the workforce; midcareer learners who have lost their jobs due to factory closings or layoffs; or those who are gainfully employed but require additional industry-based credentials or training to move to the next level of their career. In short, workforce development is poised to assist those who must now adapt for new and sustained workplace success, whatever their circumstance.

In today’s economic climate, workforce development and continuing education fuel growth. In fact, according to McKinsey and Company, an estimated $300 billion is spent on workforce-development programs for those not going to four-year colleges. These vital opportunities ensure that employees have the skillset and knowledge to support current and future business and industry demand. Additionally, gaining these additional skills benefit workers by giving them the tools they need to be successful and competitive on the local and global stage.

The good news is that a diverse selection of workforce development opportunities are available through community college programs; certificate programs; or internship opportunities that provide targeted on-the-job training. Successful programs start with realizing the importance of employers being actively and regularly involved from start to completion. That’s why, at RPCC, we work closely with a variety of industry partners in the river region to tailor training offerings that meet their requirements for those seeking employment or promotion opportunities. Program curriculum and hands-on applications are strategically customized to ensure a participant’s comprehensive readiness for entry-level positions or preparedness for completion of industry-based credentialing assessments.

One significant advantage to choosing certificates, licenses, and/or professional certification, is the student’s ability to bypass the time commitment and often burdensome financial hardship of a full degree program, while still capitalizing on the invaluable training and skill development required for in-demand careers. So who needs workforce development? The short answer is, everyone! High school diploma or GED holders with little to no post-secondary education, who are looking for a way to stay competitive without a formal degree. Or military veterans making the sometimes difficult transition back to civilian life and need help aligning military skills with comparable civilian professions. Lastly, those currently employed desiring continuing education to improve existing skills, learn new skills or technologies, or attain an industry recognized certification to demonstrate expertise and advanced knowledge in their chosen area.

Regardless of where you are in your life, continual learning is necessary to stay current in the job market and to remain viable in the workforce. We encourage you to consider RPCC as you look for available options in your local area. Our current workforce offerings include scaffolding, with a guaranteed job opportunity upon course completion and successful drug testing; crane operator; and non-destructive testing. For more information, please contact Mrs. Cheri Wells at 225-743-8500 extension 8650.

 

Monica Morrison is Campus Director for the Reserve Campus of River Parishes Community College. She can be contacted at mmorrison@rpcc.edu or by calling 985-536-4418, ext. 203.