FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
Sharpening Skills through Virtual Job Training During COVID-19 Slow Down
Workforce Development Board of Contra Costa County and Employment and Human Services Provide Free Access to Online Career Courses
Concord, Calif. (April 20, 2020) – Workforce Development Board (WDB) Executive Director Donna Van Wert has announced that Contra Costa County residents will have free access to online career training via Metrix E-Learning System through its “Skill Up Contra Costa” initiative. WDB, a bureau of the Employment & Human Services Department, is making the virtual courses available in response to the coronavirus outbreak.
“As COVID-19 precautionary measures include encouraging residents stay at home as much as possible, Metrix provides residents with an invaluable opportunity to make productive use of their time by learning skills that employers value,” said Van Wert. “I encourage those who are looking to sharpen their skills and jump back into the workforce once the pandemic subsides to take advantage of these course offerings.”
Students of all ages can explore career paths, complete online classes, and prepare for industryrecognized certifications to upgrade existing skills or learn new skills, whether an individual is looking for a first job, a new job, or to advance in their chosen field. Previous Skill Up Contra Costa participants have earned certificates and digital badges in areas such as Project Management, Microsoft Word & Excel, HIPAA, Human Resources, Accounting, Food Industry Standards, Leadership and Team Building. Online students also earned certificates in computer and IT fields such as Networking, CompTIA, Windows, Adobe and Information Security.
The Metrix E-learning system has a catalog of more than 5,500 courses that include topics such as business, information technology, manufacturing, customer service, retail, finance, and many others. The “Prove It” feature in Metrix offers assessments, which can be used by job seekers to evaluate and document knowledge and skills in a given area.
The Metrix System is accessible around the clock to anyone with internet access. Individuals can create a personalized training plan comprised of the courses they would like to take, work at their own pace and can complete as many courses as they would like within a six-month period.
For information about course offerings and to sign up for free access, visit wdbccc.com.
Workforce Development Board of Contra Costa County
Part of the Employment & Human Services Department, Workforce Development Board of Contra Costa County (WDBCCC) brings together leaders from business, economic development, education, labor, community-based organizations, and public agencies to align a variety of resources and organizations to enhance the competitiveness of the local workforce and support economic vitality in our region. The WDBCCC’s programs and services are designed to help job seekers, employers, small businesses and youth. Visit www.wdbccc.com for more information.
Contra Costa County Employment & Human Services
Employment & Human Services (EHSD) partners with the community to deliver quality services to ensure access to resources that support, protect, and empower individuals and families to achieve self-sufficiency. Based on the core values of delivering an exceptional customer experience, encouraging open communication, embracing change, practicing ethical behavior, and embracing diversity, EHSD envisions Contra Costa County will continue to be a thriving community where all individuals and families can be healthy, safe, secure and self-sufficient. More information about EHSD is available at www.ehsd.org.