The Gilbert Town Council has approved the continuation of the #GilbertTogether resident career training scholarships and the professional skills training program in partnership with Maricopa County Community College District.

This is the third year for the scholarship program, and both programs are available for residents and employees of Gilbert businesses.

“Investing in this partnership, with the nation’s largest community college district, is essential for preparing and educating Gilbert’s future and current workforce,” Gilbert Mayor Brigette Peterson said in a town releae. “We have long recognized the value in building and fostering a talent pipeline within our town and understand that this isn’t possible without access to affordable, meaningful and quality educational opportunities.”

The professional skills program offers self-paced training for Gilbert residents and employees of Gilbert-based businesses and offers an opportunity for those enrolled to take their soft skills training to the next level.

Starting in October, participants will complete 10 professional skills modules throughout the course. The modules contain activities and assessments designed to enhance their skills.

All modules are completed online and are designed to prepare participants for the Arizona Career Readiness Credential professional skills exam.

This program allows Gilbert business owners to invest in their current employee and new hire training, and for job seekers looking to improve employability. The training is free until funding runs out.

The popular #GilbertTogether resident career training scholarship program is also available in the 2023-2024 school year for Gilbert-based students enrolled at Maricopa Information Technology Institute-East Valley, Chandler-Gilbert Community College and Mesa Community College.

The programs of study offered via these job training scholarships provide entry-level and upskilling opportunities to prepare Gilbert employees and residents for careers in business, healthcare, information technology, manufacturing, and trades.

The career areas offered are in high demand, with the potential to earn more than the median Maricopa County wage.

Gilbert’s business assistance programs are managed and promoted by the Gilbert Office of Economic Development. Residents who wish to learn more about these and other business tools, including the #GilbertTogether HUUB, a citywide online community and resource center for small businesses, can contact Senior Economic Development Project Manager Michael Martella, via email at Michael.Martella@GIlbertAZ.gov and visit online at GilbertEDI.com.

Residents who wish to view #GilbertTogether resident career training participant testimonials, review scholarship eligibility requirements, and view a complete list of eligible programs can visit MCCCD online.