Bellevue College’s Workforce Education division is now enrolling eligible students for fall quarter in professional-technical programs that prepare them for in-demand jobs in the Puget Sound region. Once enrolled, students can pursue a variety of educational options, including short-term certificates and associate degrees, in fields such as business, information technology and healthcare. Dislocated workers and individuals with limited incomes may qualify for scholarships that cover the cost of tuition and fees.

“Although the economy is improving, many people in the region are still looking for work, and we have the resources to help them get back on their feet,” said Darlene Molsen, associate dean of Workforce Education. “There have been some cutbacks to federal job training programs, but we want people to know that support is available at Bellevue College.”

For workers who have been displaced from their jobs, BC’s state-funded Worker Retraining program helps individuals update their job skills and return to the workforce. Individuals are eligible if they are currently collecting Unemployment Insurance, or if they exhausted those benefits or were discharged from the military within the past 24 months.

Opportunity Grant is another state-funded program offered at BC. This helps individuals with little or no post-secondary education increase their skills and career options through professional-technical training. Prospective students must meet certain income requirements to enroll.

The Workforce Education division also provides support services to help students succeed, including educational advising and planning, job search assistance, a staffed homework lab, and help with applications for federal financial aid and employment security’s training approval process.

Students are advised to register as soon as possible to ensure space is available for certain classes. For questions about the programs, contact Workforce Education at 425-564-4054 or visit bellevuecollege.edu/we.