Mid-Summer Webinar: Maine IT Micro?Credentials

A diverse panel discusses the development and implementation of a series of aligned micro-credential pathways in digital literacy and technology using a unified state framework.

We will discuss:

• What are Maine employer’s IT and foundational skill needs?
• How can we implement a series of micro-credential pathways to fill those skill gaps?
• What industry credentials are most valuable for Maine citizens to obtain?
• What are the challenges and barriers within a rural state?
• What input, support, and in-the-job training can employers offer?

The University of Maine System, in close partnership with the Maine Department of Education has received a grant to work with partners across the state to build I.T. Micro-credential pathways to aid in hiring, workforce development, and adult degree completion. In addition to the Maine DoE, parters includ the Maine Dept of Labor / State Workforce Boards, the Maine Department of Corrections, Educate Maine, the Maine Community College System, and employers and others to achieve Maine’s 60% “Credential of Value” attainment goal by 2025 (see link info below). IT employers and tech industry involvement and input are crucial to the success of these efforts — this session features a request from employers and tech professionals to give their input about this program. This is an ongoing request – Please see the slide deck PDF below for team contact information if you would like to get involved.

Learn more about the Maine I.T. Micro-Credentials program & grant at these links: 

• Maine Spark 60% “Credential of Value” Goal for 2025: https://mainespark.me/
• Educate Maine: https://www.educatemaine.org/about
• Lumina Foundation’s “All Learning Counts” Grant Program: luminafoundation.org/news-and-views/recognizing-learning-outside-the-classroom-lumina-foundation-awards-3-5-million-in-grants-for-all-learning-counts-initiative – Maine is one of 9 such Micro-Credentialing programs funded across the nation.

MTUG thanks volunteer board member Uli Stewart for coordinating this month’s speakers and topic!