The Nevada Governor’s Office of Economic Development will grant $100,000 to Truckee Meadows Community College in Reno to pilot a technology training program that uses microcredentials to prepare future software developers.
The funding comes via GOED’s Workforce Innovations for the New Nevada (WINN) program, according to an April 12 press release from the state.
“We have listened to industry leaders and worked closely with the Economic Development Authority of Western Nevada to understand the workforce needs of technology companies coming into Nevada,” Stacey Bostwick, GOED Director of Workforce Development, said in a statement. “TMCC has put together a proof of concept to help prospective technology employees develop the foundational skills they will need to enter the career field.”
Bostwick said the first TMCC software development boot camp will start as early this month.
The “self-paced program,” as it’s described, will be offered online with access to in-person support, is designed to be completed in 6-10 weeks with full-time academic participation. Integrated career exploration activities will engage students with local employers, positioning them for employment upon program completion.
“The pandemic magnified the need for short-term, stackable training programs that connect Nevadans to living-wage jobs with career advancement opportunities,” TMCC President Karin Hilgersom said in a statement. “Our vision, in partnership with employers, is to strengthen the education to employment pipeline, ensuring that students are well-positioned for current and future career success. The TMCC Tech Careers FastTrack boot camp is the beginning ‚ providing an accessible entry point for Nevadans, regardless of background, into the rapidly expanding technology job market.”
According to the press release, to date, more than 600 apprentices have trained through TMCC’s nationally recognized American Apprentice Initiative. Additionally, TMCC provides a range of incremental credentials, as well as third party/industry recognized certifications, that can be stacked to earn 2-year and 4-year degrees.
Go here to learn more about the new program.
