Build Skills and Training
From planning a career path to improving basic skills, to potential participation in federally funded training programs, Oregonians have many opportunities to seek training or continuing education.
In addition to exploring programs at Oregon’s public universities, community colleges, and private colleges and universities, explore the resources below that might be right for you.
Job seekers and individuals seeking career advancement opportunities should also contact WorkSource Oregon, Oregon’s public workforce system, and locate the WorkSource center in your area.
Adult Basic Skills opportunities provide adult Oregonians the skills they need for family self-sufficiency, careers, community involvement, and further education. These programs generally offer instruction in:
- English as a second language;
- Reading, writing, and math;
- GED® test credential preparation
- High School Diploma preparation; and
- Workplace skills including critical thinking, digital literacy, locating and using information, and interpersonal workplace skills.
- Students who have not earned a high school diploma can prepare and test for the General Educational Development (GED) at more than 70 sites across Oregon. The GED serves as a bridge to higher education, trade schools, apprenticeship programs and employment opportunities. Learn more about our coordination of the GED statewide on HECC's Oregon High School Equivalency Program webpage.
- Career and technical education (CTE) programs and opportunities in Oregon link high schools and community colleges to labor market demand and provides students of all ages with the technical, academic and job skills needed for success. Secondary students can learn more about Career and Technical Education (CTE) Programs in Oregon High Schools on ODE's Approved CTE Programs Website. Post-secondary students can learn more about CTE Programs in Oregon Community Colleges by following the links on Oregon's 17 Community Colleges. Also, find out more about the work we do at the HECC to coordinate CTE on our Career and Technical Education webpage.
- Career Pathways at Oregon community colleges offer a series of connected education and training programs and student support services to help secure a job or advance in a demand industry or occupation. Learn more about the work we do to coordinate Career Pathways.
- As part of HECC’s implementation of federal workforce programs, staff provide guidance and resources to dislocated workers, working closely with the Oregon Employment Department and with WorkSource Oregon partners in the affected region.
- Many learners find the flexibility of online or distance education optimal to meet their goals. Oregon’s public colleges and universities are leaders in distance education offerings, and many other public and private institutions, in state and out, also offer approved distance education coursework and programs.
- Students can learn about career training and college programs approved for GI veteran benefits in Oregon.
- The Oregon Youth Conservation Corps (OYCC) creates meaningful opportunities for youth through significant resource projects that enhance the Oregon Community, including through the Summer Conservation Corp (SCC), and funding for youth work crews throughout Oregon.
- The Oregon WIOA Youth Programs provides workforce development training opportunities to young people ages 14-24 through the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA). Note: HECC does not directly hire young Oregonians for these programs, but coordinates with local and regional programs.