Within Garrett College is our Continuing Education & Workforce Development Department, which is comprised of a team of 12 to enhance the community of Garrett County, and beyond, with lifelong learning and development. Through an average of 800 courses annually there is a program or course for anyone interested in picking up a new skill, expanding your current skill set for a career change or work promotion, plus an array of other opportunities.
This ranges from Community Education courses which include personal interest, wellness & safety, along with others. Business Solutions offers services including customized training, incubator & business startup space, mentoring & coaching entrepreneurs and growing business owner’s resources. Workforce Development includes training programs in 10 of pathways including Business Management & Finance, Consumer Services, Hospitality & Tourism, Construction, Health & Biosciences, and many more.
The Continuing Education and Workforce Development will enhance the mission of Garrett College by providing lifelong learning through community education and personal interest courses, basic skills development and customized training solutions. We are committed to helping build a better community through collaborative efforts and partnerships.
We realize that many people are balancing full-time jobs, family and personal responsibilities and the thought of adding another obligation may seem totally out of the realm of possibility, but we provide a flexible schedule with most classes and programs being available in the evening or online. Our courses and programs are taught by professionals who are in the particular field or have previously worked in the field, ensuring the best education and hands-on training for each program.
Nathan Householder, Paramedic Graduate
Worforce Program Success
"Many jobs today, and I'm talking in the millions, are available to those with skill or trade experience. The certificate I obtained upon completion of GC’s paramedic program along with the National Registry Certification, has allowed me to gain licenses in Maryland, West Virginia, Virginia, and North Dakota, all without attending another paramedic program.
Attending a four-year school or obtaining an associate's or bachelor's degree is not for everyone. There is no shame in trade work. This country was built by tradesmen and tradeswomen – there will always be a need for those with a trade."
Brian Bowers & Rob Beckman, Discount Duo
All-In Business Plan Competition, Power of Possibilities
"Our involvement in the Power of Possibilities competition reassured us that we had a good business idea and plan," stated Brian Bowers, co-owner of Discount Duo. "It gave us the confidence to follow our dream and become entrepreneurs in our start-up venture. Guidance and feedback from Jodi McClintock at Garrett College and colleagues from the Garrett County Economic Development office were extremely important as we developed our business plan.
The experience bonded us together with other participants, mentors, and those we met through networking. As a result, friendships developed – we were definitely not expecting this from a competition."
