Georgian offers RapidSkills microcredentials to support auto and manufacturing sectors

Automotive and advanced manufacturing workers can access a new program called RapidSkills microcredentials to learn new skills, or upgrade existing ones.

Georgian College, in partnership with the Government of Ontario, is launching the RapidSkills initiative in response to the needs of the manufacturing sector in a changing economy.

RapidSkills microcredentials offer short-term, competency-based, industry-recognized certifications in:

• hydraulics and pneumatics
• industrial automation
• precision machining
• robotics

For a limited time, RapidSkills tuition and training costs are free for eligible participants and employers.

“After consultation with employer and community partners, the RapidSkills program was developed as an innovative and responsive solution to the local labour market challenges,” says Melissa Marshall, Manager of Continuing Education and Corporate Training at Georgian College. “We’re excited to offer RapidSkills microcredentials to equip workers with the in-demand skills to become competitive while providing the manufacturing sectors with technically-trained and agile workers.”

Georgian faculty have long taught these skills and programs in full-time learning formats. Now, they’re looking forward to sharing their expertise with new cohorts of part-time students, many of whom will continue to work while they study.

Participants can enrol in microcredentials that are relevant to them and will receive digital badges upon completion. They’ll also have the opportunity to complete industrial certifications and employability skills training and apply for in-demand positions with employer partners.

RapidSkills eligibility requirements

To be eligible for the free RapidSkills program, you must:

• have been recently laid off, or
• be at high risk of being laid off, or
• be an underutilized worker

You can self-identify to RapidSkills staff or be referred to the program by eligible employers or an Employment Ontario service provider.

Program dates

RapidSkills microcredentials begins on Sept. 12 and runs until March 2021, through a blend of part-time, online and in-person lectures and labs at the Barrie Campus. For a limited time, RapidSkills microcredential tuition and training costs are free for eligible participants and employers.