DEVELOPMENT CENTER Offers Free Courses

submitted by Yavapai College

The Regional Economic Development Center (REDC) at Yavapai College now offers a wide range of free certificates and support programs through its QUEST grant.

The REDC secured funding to support qualified learners for needs related to travel, technology, child care, tuition assistance, stipends for internships and for removing other barriers for dislocated workers. To learn more and apply, go online to www.ycredc.com/quest-grant.

In September 2022, Arizona received a $15 million grant from the U.S. Department of Labor. The grant is part of the department’s QUEST Disaster Recovery Dislocated Worker Grant program, and it was awarded to the Arizona Commerce Authority in partnership with six Arizona community colleges, including Yavapai College.

Arizona’s statewide QUEST efforts will form a direct pipeline for workers in the industries of health care, information technology and manufacturing. The REDC has pathways for qualified individuals to:

• Take advantage of wraparound student support to make the process of earning certifications more attainable.

• Earn industry-recognized certifications through Yavapai College.

• Earn industry-recognized certifications through Coursera. The grant is applicable to those who:

• Have been temporarily or permanently laid off because of the COVID-19 pandemic disaster.

• Have been unemployed long-term.

• Are considered dislocated workers as defined by the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act Section 3(15).

The courses are meant to certify and support learners seeking a well-paying career in the IT field, with programs related to data engineering, analytics, cyber security, software development and engineering, digital sales, marketing and more, with average annual salaries ranging from $50,000 to $200,000.

The REDC at Yavapai College is a resource center dedicated to building strong communities and increasing opportunities for local residents through economic development.

Yavapai College operates six campuses and centers throughout Yavapai County and offers more than 100 degrees and certificates, a baccalaureate degree, student and community services, and cultural events and activities.

To learn more about Yavapai College, visit www.yc.edu.

Education is the basis for the growth and progress of society, allowing people to contribute more in their areas of expertise and create better communities. Education on every level develops problem-solving skills and provides the opportunity for empowerment through hard work.

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