Funding aims to enhance Weld County's workforce
Published on February 24, 2022
Employment Services of Weld County (ESWC) has received funding from the Colorado Recovery Plan to assist in connecting individuals with training opportunities to increase certain skill sets in today’s workforce. The funds will help job seekers, already-employed workers or students gain new skills to achieve their career goals.
ESWC received approximately $1.4 million in funding to pay for credentials or certificates that will aid those seeking quality jobs or those interested in career enhancement and advancement. Anyone whose household has been currently, or previously financially affected by COVID-19 may qualify for funding for one of these credentials. Certificates must be completed in 12 months or less.
“These funds will help us enhance skill sets of the current workforce by providing training to those who are looking to expand their current skill set to either enter the workforce, grow within their current company or venture into a different industry,” explained Karina Amaya-Ragland, Director of Employment Services of Weld County.
Most businesses have also been impacted during the pandemic. Many companies have employees who are wearing multiple hats and completing tasks that are outside their original job description. These funds can be used to upskill or reskill such employees allowing them to grow in their current companies with industry-recognized credentials.
“We understand the hardships that the pandemic brought on not only impacted individuals but businesses as well. With these funds’ businesses can also explore incumbent worker training to upskill their existing talent to fill positions with upward mobility while making entry level positions available for new talent to meet overall workforce demands," said Tami Grant, Deputy Director of Human Services.
Businesses are encouraged to connect with the Business Services Team with ESWC to discuss customized strategies to best support local employers.
There are hundreds of credential options ranging from Adobe Photoshop and Illustrator, food industry certificates like ServSafe, QuickBooks and more. To view a list of credential options, click here.
To learn more about opportunities available, or apply for funding, visit www.eswc.org or call (970) 400-6720.