Utah Tech University offering free noncredit classes through Learn and Work program

Utah Tech University is offering Utahns free access to over 7,000 online technology workforce development courses through the university’s Learn and Work program.

The online courses and resources are offered through Pluralsight, which provides specialized education in tech fields, teaching practical technology and soft skills for real-world scenarios. As part of Learn and Work, Utah Tech is also reimbursing the cost of one industry-recognized certification exam upon successful completion.

“The Pluralsight courses offered, which include technical, career and business topics, are designed to help anyone looking to enhance workplace skills, develop leadership abilities, earn an industry certification or manage their career,” Mark Adkins, Utah Tech’s Learn and Work project manager, said.

Eligible participants must have a high school diploma or equivalent and be residents of Utah. The fully online nature of Pluralsight’s platform allows participants to study at their own pace and on their own schedule. Although participants can tailor their study schedules, a time commitment of 3 to 5 hours per week is recommended.

“This marks the start of the fourth Utah Tech Learn and Work cohort, and the results have been transformative,” Adkins said. “Over this period, 713 participants have logged more than 13,000 hours of learning, with 34 individuals earning recognized industry certifications.”

Supported by the Utah System of Higher Education, Learn and Work helps working adults enhance their skills or improve their career prospects.

“The Utah Tech Learn and Work program has been invaluable to me. As a professional in the tech industry affected by downsizing, the opportunity to take classes and earn the Project Management Professional certification has led to a significant increase in the number of interviews I’ve received,” Jeff Calder, who participated in Utah Tech’s Learn and Work program last year, said. “Without this program, I likely wouldn’t have pursued these courses or the certification. Additionally, I’ve been able to explore other areas of interest, gaining new skills and knowledge that have made me more competitive in the job market.”

For more information or to apply for Utah Tech University’s Learn and Work Program, visit cares.utahtech.edu.