For Maricopa County residents on the job hunt or just aiming to level up their skillset, the Maricopa County Board of Supervisors along with Maricopa Community Colleges have rolled out a new incentive. This boon comes in the form of no-cost professional skills training, available to all local residents, as stated in a recent announcement.
Chairman Thomas Galvin, representing District 2 on the Board of Supervisors, explained the program's benefits, “Maricopa County is proud to invest in programs that strengthen our workforce and open doors for hardworking residents. When we equip people with the skills employers need, we’re not just empowering individuals—we’re making Maricopa County a competitive, attractive place for businesses to thrive." Specifically crafted to enhance workforce development and enrich economic opportunities, the Workforce 2 You scheme aims to pave waves for the county's employed and unemployed alike, according to the Maricopa County website.
The curriculum, labeled the Workforce Professional Skills course, consists of five modules: Communication and Empathy, Professionalism and Collaboration, Initiative, Critical Thinking and Problem Solving, and Self-Directed Learning and Resilience. Completers of the course who notch a final exam score of 80% or better will be awarded a Workforce Professional Skills Badge, a verified digital credential that signals their mastery in skills frequently sought after by employers.
Dr. Steven R. Gonzales, Chancellor of Maricopa Community Colleges, highlighted the synergy in this initiative, "This partnership allows us to continue doing what we do best — expanding access to educational opportunities for learners across Maricopa County.” He further asserted that their colleges are adept at offering the necessary training and resources for students to compete in the current job market. In order to sign up for the course, residents must register online through the Maricopa Community Colleges system as non-credit students, Maricopa County official notification detailed.
Interested individuals can find out more about the adult and youth job seeker services that the Maricopa County Workforce Development offers by visiting their website and registering for the Workforce Professional Skills course at Maricopa.gov/WDD.
