Workforce Development Programs
Workers in Northwest Colorado have many opportunities and resources for retraining into new industries and for upskilling to ensure knowledge and skills keep up with rapidly changing workplaces. Nearly 2,800 workers from the energy sector are anticipated to require some type of assistance whether its workforce development or small business startup assistance. As part of its strategic plan, the Northwest Colorado Development Council (NWCDC) is working with federal, state, local organizations, higher education and K-12 partners to create or support workforce development programs that support reskilling or upskilling.
Colorado Office of Justice Transition is working with state and local partners, impacted communities and workers and their families to develop a program to support coal transition workers in affected communities throughout the state. That includes helping workers and their families prepare for closures and to explore their future options as well as whatever assistance may be appropriate when the closures happen later this decade. Specific resources are available for the approximately 2,800 highly skilled workers employed in coal mining and/or operations of coal-generating power plants through the Colorado Office of Just Transition and local navigator. Learn more.
The Colorado Department of Labor and Employment hosts Workforce Centers in Northwest Colorado. Workforce Centers provide a variety of free services to assist employers and job seekers alike. Workforce Center Career Counselors can connect workers and job seekers with local employment, training, and educational opportunities, as well as any available funding. Counselors can also help clients improve their interviewing skills and résumé. Learn more.
Services include:
- Job listings
- Computer and internet access
- Career counseling and training for job seekers
- Recruitment of workers, pre-screening, and referral services
- Tax credits and training reimbursement for employers
- Customers can choose either self-service or staff-assisted options to meet their employment needs.
Colorado Mountain College in Steamboat Springs offers two year and four year degree programs, certifications, and workforce training opportunities tailored to the needs of businesses and individuals. Whether it's through associate and bachelor’s degrees, certificate programs, or continuing education courses, CMC trains workers in the following areas:
- Business & Information Technology
- Communications
- Hospitality
- Sustainability
- Culinary Arts
- Skilled Trades and Applied Technology
Explore program offerings and career services here.
Colorado Northwestern Community College provides comprehensive educational resources and workforce development programs designed to meet the evolving needs of regional employers and workers. From technical training programs to industry-specific certifications, CNCC empowers individuals to upskill and reskill in the following areas:
- Welding
- Aviation Technology & Maintenance
- Automotive Technology
- Business
- Cybersecurity
- Agriculture
- Allied Health
