Community Skills Initiative

Introduction

In 2020, amidst the challenges brought by the pandemic, NCW Tech received vital grant funding from Microsoft Philanthropies. This support allowed us to launch digital skilling resources, empowering communities to thrive in a rapidly evolving digital landscape. Here, we delve into the transformative impact of the Community Skills Initiative (CSI), a program designed to equip individuals with the digital prowess needed to excel in today's workforce. CSI has continued to evolved to meet the needs of rural communities across the county over the last three years.

Program Overview

What is the Community Skills Initiative?

The Community Skills Initiative, a brainchild of NCW Tech, aims to improve access to digital skills in rural communities. Generously funded by Microsoft in partnership with LinkedIn, this initiative offers free online courses and career training across 11 states. From mastering digital basics to honing role-specific skills like digital marketing and project management, the program caters to diverse learning needs.

By the Numbers

The initiative serves a broad spectrum of individuals, including the unemployed, underemployed, professionals, lifelong learners, and students across K-12 and higher education institutions.

Community Skills Initiative Portfolio

• Website Engagement: With over 17,000 page views and 6,000+ certificate of completion earned, the initiative's website serves as a hub for digital learning. Top courses include basic digital skills and project management, with engagement from Spanish-speaking users.
• Educational Resources: Through instructional videos, webinars, and the UpSkill-A-Thon Learning Challenge, the initiative facilitates self-paced learning experiences, fostering skill acquisition and professional growth.

"I currently study at Southern Union State Community College where I am about to graduate with an Associates of Science in General Studies. I signed up for UpSkill-A-Thon because I wanted to add to my skill set and increase my digital literacy. UpSkill-A-Thon offered what I was looking for and more"

‍

Partnerships

The success of the Community Skills Initiative is greatly amplified through strategic partnerships with national and local organizations. Each partner plays a unique role in tailoring initiatives to address specific workforce needs and foster economic empowerment within their respective communities. Here are some of the key partners who have collaborated closely with the initiative:

1. Ignite FMWF: Powered by The FMWF Chamber Foundation, Ignite FMWF serves as a hub for career awareness, exploration, and preparedness. Through their partnership with the Community Skills Initiative, Ignite FMWF facilitates access to digital skilling resources, empowering individuals to thrive in a rapidly evolving job market.
2. Flagship Kansas: With a mission to propel the tech sector within the state, Flagship Kansas is committed to raising awareness, promoting education, and nurturing the workforce. Their collaboration with the Community Skills Initiative facilitates the dissemination of essential digital skills, paving the way for economic growth and innovation.
3. Mixon-Clayton Bridge Builders: Dedicated to improving the lives of residents in Tangipahoa Parish, Mixon-Clayton Bridge Builders provides a range of services, including ACT preparation, computer literacy training, and life skills development. Through their partnership with the initiative, they extend access to digital skilling resources, empowering individuals to thrive in the digital age.
4. Montana Chamber Foundation: As a vital advocate for business education and workforce readiness, the Montana Chamber Foundation plays a crucial role in fostering economic development and entrepreneurship across Montana. By partnering with the Community Skills Initiative, they facilitate access to digital training programs, equipping individuals with the skills needed to succeed in today's competitive job market.
5. NCW Tech Alliance: Serving as a catalyst for innovation and technology in North Central Washington, NCW Tech Alliance brings together people and resources to support entrepreneurship and STEM education. Through their collaboration with the Community Skills Initiative, they facilitate access to digital skilling resources, empowering individuals and businesses to thrive in a digital-first world.
6. Randolph County Economic Development Authority: Committed to sustaining and growing the economy of Randolph County, this authority provides leadership and resources for entrepreneurship, business recruitment, and workforce development. Through their partnership with the initiative, they promote access to digital training programs, fostering economic growth and prosperity within the region.
7. Riverside County Works: Dedicated to supporting and promoting the Riverside County workforce development system, Riverside County Works administers funds and programs aimed at strengthening the local workforce. Through their collaboration with the Community Skills Initiative, they facilitate access to digital skilling resources, empowering individuals to succeed in today's competitive job market.
8. SC Chamber Education and Workforce Foundation: Focused on identifying and addressing issues in South Carolina's educational system and workforce, the SC Chamber Education and Workforce Foundation is dedicated to creating inclusive pathways to employment. Through their partnership with the initiative, they promote access to digital training programs, equipping individuals with the skills needed for success in the modern workforce.
9. United Way Fox Cities: With a mission to improve lives and build a stronger, more caring community, United Way Fox Cities brings together diverse stakeholders to address social and economic challenges. Through their collaboration with the Community Skills Initiative, they facilitate access to digital skilling resources, empowering individuals to achieve their full potential.
10. Greater Williamson Community Development Corporation (GWCDC) and Williamson Health & Wellness Center (WHWC): Partnering to support workforce development in southern West Virginia, GWCDC and WHWC offer workforce readiness and soft skills training programs. Through their partnership with the initiative, they promote access to digital skilling resources, empowering individuals to thrive in today's digital economy.

‍

"I worked on an ambulance doing 911 and critical care transportations for ~8 years. A few months ago I was positioned in a new role and felt I could really benefit from some process improvements but didn't exactly know how to translate what I was thinking into something clean and easy on the computer. Courses like Entrepreneurship, professional soft skills and project management gave me new tools to improve being a leader and even a father, husband and coach."

‍

Conclusion

As we navigate a digitally-driven future, initiatives like the Community Skills Initiative are indispensable in bridging the digital divide and fostering inclusive economic growth. Whether you're a job seeker, student, or business owner, seize the opportunity to embark on a transformative learning journey with the Community Skills Initiative.

‍

‍