Find the Job Training You Need in Omaha, NE
In today’s increasingly skill-driven marketplace, a four-year degree isn’t a requirement for obtaining a successful, satisfying career. Many industries recognize the value of skill-focused job training and certifications, and the Omaha, NE, region is leading the charge with programs that bridge the gap between education and meaningful employment. These programs make it possible for residents to jumpstart their careers in high-demand fields, such as health care, construction, culinary arts and skilled trades, that are personally and financially rewarding.
Job Training Through MCC in Omaha, NE
Metropolitan Community College (MCC) offers more than 100 training opportunities in courses leading to things like an associate degree and even microcredentials. The college’s flexible scheduling and affordability have made it a top choice for high school graduates and working adults.
“MCC is not just for the folks wanting to get their associate degree, but it can also be great for folks who are wanting to upskill, reskill or maybe come back and get a new credential,” says Lyndsie Gibbs, director of career skills and workforce at MCC. “We also have industry-recognized credentials for folks who might already have a bachelor’s degree or even a master’s degree. MCC is an awesome starting point for anybody in our community. Regardless of your grade level, age or goals, it’s just a great place to get your feet wet.”
Gibbs says while MCC is one of the more affordable colleges in the region, some students still struggle financially, which is why the college instituted the Career Forward program tailored to help students overcome financial barriers and develop the skills employers need. The program offers both tuition support and career guidance in high-demand fields, such as health care and information technology. Career Forward also connects students with mentors and industry leaders, providing practical skills and real-world experience.
“We built the Career Forward program to ensure that we are reaching not only folks who have an income need, but also those middle-class students who earn too much to qualify for some funding yet too little to really reinvest in themselves,” she says.
UNO Offers Residents Skill Development Opportunities
The University of Nebraska Omaha (UNO) College of Business Administration offers certificate programs for professionals seeking career advancement in areas such as project management, business analytics and supply chain management. These short-term courses are designed for those already working in business or technology roles who want to gain specialized skills to move up the career ladder.
“We offer a great 15-credit hour graduate level training and development certificate with courses in areas such as communication management and psychology. A little further down the continuum are the certificates we offer in our colleges of business and public affairs that are aligned to business needs,” says Jaci Lindburg, associate vice chancellor for innovative and learning-centric initiatives at UNO.
“Then at the other end of the continuum are even shorter form learning experiences that are only a total of 15 hours. We tell students to give us their lunch break for a month, and that’s about the extent of the time commitment. These microcredentials are laser focused on skill development,” she says.
When the college conducts market research or hosts listening sessions with industry leaders to assess workforce needs, business and technology are always high on the list.
“So many people are being impacted by digital transformation. Even if someone’s been at their job for 20 years, if their organization implements new technology, they need to know how to use it,” she says.
Culinary Arts Job Training Available in Omaha, NE
For those with a passion for food and culinary arts, No More Empty Pots’ (NMEP) Culinary Certificate Program provides students with practical, hands-on culinary training, while emphasizing sustainability, community impact and entrepreneurship. Graduates of the program have gone on to work in local restaurants, start their own businesses and contribute to Omaha’s vibrant foodie culture.
“Programs like this help support regional food security by providing individuals with skills that support higher-wage jobs. With a higher wage, individuals can better balance their budget, making having enough food or access to healthy food less of a barrier,” says Talia McGill, president and CEO of NMEP, a grassroots nonprofit that connects individuals and groups to improve self-sufficiency. “Additionally, the skills they learn in the classroom can be utilized at home to cook for their families.”
McGill says many of the program’s participants are unemployed or underemployed, and NMEP offers them a path to a sustainable career. She says while many graduates of the program go on to work in the food industry, some choose to follow an entrepreneurial path and start their own businesses, which can provide jobs to other community members and serve as a steppingstone to the creation of generational wealth.
“The NMEP Culinary Certificate Program meets individuals where they are,” she says. “It is a safe environment to take the first step in chasing culinary dreams. At NMEP, we recognize that there are many barriers and challenges to success and feel like the first step in moving in the right direction is simply being provided an opportunity and a little bit of support.”
This article was sponsored by the Greater Omaha Chamber of Commerce.