FORT PIERCE – Indian River State College (IRSC) is partnering with the Florida Department of Education (FDOE) on a new workforce education initiative aimed at raising awareness of short-term career and technical education (CTE) programs. Get There Florida highlights the key benefits of the programs available locally through IRSC in Indian River, Martin, Okeechobee and St. Lucie counties, and to all Floridians statewide.

“Indian River State College has enthusiastically joined forces with the Florida Department of Education on its Get There Florida campaign,” stated Dr. Timothy Moore, Indian River State College President. “Across our region and state, high-demand industries such as healthcare, advanced manufacturing, construction and public safety are seeking skilled workers. IRSC offers career and technical education programs in state-of-the-art learning environments, helping our area residents gain the credentials necessary to join these essential industries.”

Recognizing that CTE is a critical component in preparing individuals for occupations important to Florida’s economic development, IRSC in September introduced Rapid Credentialing to connect unemployed, underemployed and furloughed workers with tuition-free career and technical programs such as Nursing Assistant (CNA); Emergency Medical Technician (EMT); Firefighting; Automotive Service Technician; and Residential Air Conditioning, Refrigeration & eating Assistant (HVAC). The program is funded by the Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security (CARES) Act Governor’s Emergency Education Relief (GEER) Rapid Credentialing grant by the Florida Department of Education. Beginning Oct. 27, eligible students may enroll in spring 2021 classes.

“Get There accelerates student success, preparing them for their future and ensuring a talented workforce,” said Kathy Hebda, Chancellor of the Florida College System. “With 28 state colleges and 48 technical colleges and centers spanning the state, there is a program for everyone. Whether you’ve recently experienced job loss, graduated high school or are simply looking for a career change or opportunity to stack your credentials into a degree – we want to help you Get There.”

In addition to programs offered through Rapid Credentialing, IRSC offers career training in barbering and cosmetology, culinary operations, early childhood education, allied health professions, law enforcement, office technology, welding technology and more.

“Career and technical education matters more than ever,” said Henry Mack, Chancellor for Career, Technical and Adult Education. “Get There raises awareness about CTE and helps everyone envision the power of a workforce training opportunity for professional and personal wellbeing. By connecting students to a high value credentials at our state colleges, we will be sure to reach our goal of becoming #1 in workforce education by 2030.”

At GetThereFL.com, Floridians can learn more about CTE and workforce training programs available at state and technical colleges, align their interests with a career path and connect with their local institution to enroll.

To learn more about IRSC CTE and Rapid Credentialing programs, go online to www.irsc.edu/programs.