CT expands 'SkillUp' online training for coronavirus job victims

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

The SkillUp CT program offers some 5,000 courses spanning information technology, business analysis, health fields, project management and other career areas. Many classes are focused on personal skills like communicating effectively or handling pressure.

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

The curriculum was developed by Albany, N.Y.-based Metrix Learning, which has created online training programs for workforce development boards in 15 states that to date have delivered instruction to some 250,000 people. The service integrates with job site Indeed.com, which has a large office in Stamford.

"This last month has seen a significant spike," said Joseph Alteri, speaking on a webinar posted by Metrix. "We're able to extend Metrix services ... to community partners at no additional cost."

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

In the early weeks of the pandemic, restaurants and hotels triggered the largest number of layoffs, according to the Connecticut Department of Labor. More than 41,000 hospitality workers filed for unemployment assistance through mid-April.

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 addressing cyber security.

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

[email protected]; 203-842-2545; @casoulman

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