College partners with area employers to prepare Shore residents for jobs of today and tomorrow

Since opening their doors in 1967, hundreds of thousands of mid-shore residents have walked through Chesapeake College’s doors. Whether earning an associate degree or professional certificate, enrolling in one of many credit and noncredit continuing education courses, or attending any number of concerts, gallery openings or plays, the College has been an educational, economic and cultural anchor for almost 50 years.

For employers and employees, Chesapeake has also been a key partner in higher education and workforce development. Between the college’s Queenstown Campus and Cambridge Center, more than 9,000 people were enrolled in Continuing Education programs in 2012.

The College’s strong emphasis on workforce development will continue to play a critical role in the coming years with the adoption in July of a new 5-year strategic plan. Under President Barbara Viniar’s leadership, one of the college’s six stated goals – to strengthen the regional economy – will be a priority of the Division of Continuing Education & Workforce Training.

Michael Dugan, Dean of the Division, will continue to oversee efforts to strengthen the college’s reputation as the workforce development partner for area employers. The Division works with businesses to design, develop and deliver tailored training programs. In addition to designing customer-specific courses, Chesapeake workforce specialists conduct individual needs assessments and strategic planning assistance.

Some of the college’s more popular continuing education and workforce training programs include those in healthcare, manufacturing and tourism. Courses are designed to certify and/or train residents in higher growth employment opportunities such as: Food Service/Culinary Management, Assisted-Living Management, Dental Assistant, Medical Administrative Assistant, Medical Coding Specialist Certificate, Medical Transcription, Nursing Assistant, Personal Fitness Trainer, Pharmacy Technician, Hotel/Restaurant Management, Welding, Truck and Bus Driver, Veterinary Assistant, and Wedding Planner.

For more information and assistance, call the Division of Continuing Education and Workforce Training at 410-228-4360 (x-5850), or the Cambridge Center at 410-228-5754.