New program looks to help workers — for free
Fall colors take hold in early October along High Pastures Road in Pomfret. (Gareth Henderson Photo)
The Vermont State Colleges System is offering free courses this fall to workers impacted by the pandemic.
Speaking at a Friday press briefing, Gov. Phil Scott said this program will help displaced workers train for new careers, and will help fill jobs that were available well before the health crisis.
"This will be a win-win for our workers and employers, and it's one of the ways we can make our economy more resilient in the future," Scott said.
The state Legislature allocated $2.3 million in federal COVID-19 relief funds to support this effort. All four state colleges are part of the new program, including Community College of Vermont (CCV), Castleton University, Northern Vermont University and Vermont Technical College.
CCV President Joyce Judy said participants can choose from over 100 courses, most of which are available online.
"If you or someone in your household has been laid off, furloughed, had your hours cut, or you've been employed in an industry that has been impacted by the pandemic, you are eligible for these free classes and trainings," Judy said at the Friday press conference.
But she encouraged anyone interested to act quickly, by going to www.vsc.edu/vtworkers.
"Funding is only available for classes and training this fall, and you need to sign up in the next couple weeks for these courses."
Judy noted that these courses are aligned with high-demand careers, such as early childhood education, health care, business and manufacturing. The program also provides funding for support services, such as computers, child care and transportation.
"To those of you who have been struggling to find your bearings during this pandemic, the good news is this is a free opportunity that can help you gain new skills, change your career, boost your resume and prepare yourself for the next job," Judy said.
Also on Friday, the governor and Judy recognized lawmakers for their work in funding and building this initiative. They thanked the House Committee on Commerce and Economic Development, under the leadership of Rep. Mike Marcotte, chair, and Rep. Jean O'Sullivan, vice chair; and also the Senate Committee on Economic Development, Housing and General Affairs, led by Sen. Michael Sirotkin, chair, and Sen. Alison Clarkson, vice chair. They also thanked the Vermont Department of Labor for its support.
During another tough news cycle, it was encouraging to hear about this opportunity for Vermont's workers. Further education and training is a key part of supporting the workforce, especially in these times, and it's an important and necessary use of federal relief dollars for economic recovery. Hopefully, this program will guide workers to successful career paths, and have a lasting, positive impact on their households and the economy. Although these benefits will take time, this kind of creative programming will lead to the solutions that Vermont and other states greatly need.
— Gareth Henderson
