CT expands free 'SkillUp' online training for virus job victims

May 5--As claims for unemployment insurance continue to rise, Connecticut is expanding an online program that offers access to more than 100 certification programs for those looking to transition to alternate careers after losing their job as a result of the coronavirus pandemic.

The SkillUp CT program was pioneered by the Eastern Connecticut Workforce Investment Board outside Norwich, and with backing from the Connecticut Health and Educational Facilities Authority has since been expanded to the state's other workforce investment boards. Those include The Workplace in Bridgeport, the Workforce Alliance in New Haven, the Northwest Regional Workforce Investment Board in Waterbury, and Capital Workforce Partners in Hartford.

Registrants must must attest to their jobless status as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic during the sign-up process online at ct.metrixlearning.com.

Under curriculum developer Metrix Learning based in Albany, N.Y., SkillUp CT offers some 5,000 courses from Skillsoft spanning information technology, business analysis, health fields, project management and other areas, to include many focused on personal skills like communicating effectively or handling pressure.

Certifications span from quick hits like QuickBooks and Microsoft Office applications that can be completed in a month, to 90-day programs such as the Certified Information Security Systems Professional credential covering cyber threats.

Skillsoft is also offering new modules developed in response to coronavirus, such as online workshops for managers and workers in the "post-pandemic workplace" in its words.

Alex.Soule@scni.com; 203-842-2545; @casoulman

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