MIAMI, FL Generation USA, a workforce development nonprofit, Miami Dade College (MDC), and the Verizon Skill Forward program are joining forces to support local, underserved communities. The Learn, Work, Earn Program beginning Wednesday, September 22nd, gives residents the opportunity to earn industry-recognized credentials, an MDC certificate, credits, and real-world experience in either cloud computing or IT. There is no cost to the student and programs can be completed in less than a year.

During the first step, participants will learn technical skills and receive the necessary support to secure their first industry-standard credentials through Generation’s boot camp program in either cloud computing or IT.

After a Generation graduation ceremony – students will receive assistance for applying for one of two MDC certificate programs. During their time at MDC, Generation will pair students with a part-time job at ConSol USA Inc., allowing them to gain paid professional experience while learning at MDC. After approximately 9 months, students will graduate with credentials, credits, and real-world work experience in a tech job.

The Learn, Work, Earn Program, allows MDC to continue forging significant partnerships that create unique opportunities for students to obtain in-demand credentials in growing and emerging industries, helping to also support economic growth.

“We’re pleased to continue our partnership with Miami Dade College to give local students the opportunity to gain valuable classroom and real-world experiences they can add to their resumes,” said Sean Segal, Generation USA CEO. “Through the Learn, Work, Earn Program, participants will walk away with industry-recognized technical certifications and credentials and a Miami Dade College certificate ― in less than a year,” Segal tells WIOD's Brian Mudd, "there are still seats available for classes that start this Wednesday and the only pre-requisite is that you live within 60 miles of Miami-Dade."

“We are very excited to once again partner with Generation USA to offer students and the community another path to economic mobility,” said MDC President Madeline Pumariega. “Now more than ever, rapid credentials are essential to creating a workforce ready for the jobs of today and tomorrow, especially in the tech sector.”

Made possible through the Verizon Skill Forward Initiative, Verizon is investing more than $44 million over several years to Generation to help close the opportunity gap for workers and increase access to digital skills. This initiative is part of Verizon’s Citizen Verizon responsible business plan to prepare 500,000 individuals for jobs of the future by 2030.

Programs are up and running in select cities throughout the US including in the Tampa/St. Petersburg and Jacksonville regions of Florida.

For more information or to apply, visit usa.generation.org/miami.