Parents and guardians of Guilford County students can now enroll in a new Information Technology (IT) certification program.

Guilford County Schools (GCS) is proud to launch the Dual-Generation Workforce Initiative (DGWI). The program will train and certify parents and guardians for high-skill, high-wage and in-demand industry pathways. CompTIA, a non-profit trade association, will provide industry-standard training. At the end of the 12-week program, the cohort will be credentialed and have the necessary skills to establish a career in information technology.

“Technology is at the core of economic development and employment opportunities in North Carolina and across the country,” said Mark Plunkett, senior vice president of global solutions and services at CompTIA. “This program will create long-term employment opportunities with good salaries and options for career advancement for the citizens of Guilford County.”

Technology-related employment in North Carolina is projected to grow by 3% this year, the fourth-highest increase among all states, according to research by CompTIA.^[1] These new jobs include positions as tech support specialists and repair technicians. These job roles are often the entryway to advanced positions in cloud computing, cybersecurity, data analytics and networking.

Through allocated Elementary and Secondary School Emergency Relief Fund (ESSER) dollars, the program will be provided at no cost to those who participate. The cohort will meet nightly from 5:30 pm to 9:00 pm in the cybersecurity labs at Kearns Academy and Northeast Guilford High School.

“New data shows that Guilford County has a higher child poverty rate, food insecurity rate, and lower median family income than the state average and other high-population counties. This initiative will foster the economic well-being of families, strengthen the local economic impact of our district while addressing the racial wealth gap in Guilford County,” said Dr. Eboni Chillis, chief innovation officer for Guilford County Schools.

GCS is also grateful to partner with GuilfordWorks, which will help eliminate barriers to participation by providing childcare to participants.

“GuilfordWorks creates equitable opportunities throughout Guilford County by promoting employment, training, and experiential learning practices to help individuals succeed. Through the Dual Generation Workforce Initiative, our talented C.A.R.E.E.R. CONNECTIONS team will provide tools and resources to parents of GCS students through one-on-one and cohort-based engagements to create achievement pathways,” Dr. Danielle A. Harrison, interim director of GuilfordWorks said. “We will help individuals positively impact their households and stimulate economic mobility for all of Guilford County. GuilfordWorks is grateful to collaborate with Guilford County Schools to help eliminate systemic barriers and create opportunities for advancement in our community.”

Parents and guardians who wish to participate must be at least 18 years old and reside in Guilford County. There will be two virtual information sessions for those who are interested in enrolling on:

- November 3 at 5:30 pm

- November 9 at 12:00 pm

The link to register for the information sessions can be found here.