The cornerstone of the Community Skills Initiative is an Up-Skill-A-Thon competition that drives participation in Microsoft’s Skills for Jobs initiative and helps the workforce become more prepared for in-demand roles in the digital economy.

The competition, which runs from Oct. 17 through Nov. 16, will include $10,000 in prize money.

“Today’s job market is driven by in-demand skills, so innovative programs that build those skills at the community level are a must,” said Brenda Tuck, Rural Development Manager for the Alabama Department of Commerce.

“It’s great to see that Randolph County is getting to take the lead on a high-impact up-skilling initiative like this.”

IN-DEMAND SKILLS

In 2020, Microsoft launched a global skills initiative to provide job skills training for unemployed and underemployed workers in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, which caused massive economic disruptions.

“The RCEDA has not been immune from financial and organizational challenges brought on by the pandemic,” Whaley said. “When Microsoft approached us about a digital skilling grant for non-profits, we jumped at the opportunity to pivot.

“The CSI program will bring valuable online resources to our members, community, and those impacted by COVID-19. The RCEDA is a natural fit to lead this initiative as it aligns with our non-profit mission to bring people and technology resources together,” he added.

The RCEDA will be the program lead for CSI Alabama, and Whaley will serve as the point of contact for the program. In his role with the RCEDA, Whaley has built relationships with regional economic and workforce development stakeholders as well as economic development professionals around the state.

Local employers, teachers, and workforce development agencies are encouraged to share the CSI website as a resource for online training and up-skilling opportunities. Employment agencies can tap into the program and offer the tools to individuals who need new skills for the digital economy.

Comprehensive information can be found at www.communityskilling.org/rceda.

Microsoft Philanthropies provides grants to nonprofits that are working to increase access to digital skills and computer science education for youth around the globe. The company awards cash grants to nonprofit organizations through an invitation-only application process.