Residents of Franklin County and surrounding communities will soon have a new resource to help them succeed in an increasingly-digital world.
DigitalBridge, a digital workforce development initiative of the WRC based in Wake Forest, has partnered with VGCC to launch a new training hub at the College’s Louisburg campus. Together the institutions will bridge the digital divide for underserved local communities through accessible technology and training.
“We are thrilled to collaborate with Vance-Granville Community College to support our communities,” said Erica Hixon, DigitalBridge executive director. “We are proud to join the community of resources to assist students and employers.”
DigitalBridge’s model delivers fast-track certifications and connects people directly to job opportunities. The initiative offers more than 130 courses and certifications for digital-skills training and certifications, provided at no cost to residents. Participants receive digital training, coaching, and job pairing matched to individual goals; in-person or remote learning at their own pace; and assistance from a career coach to guide their efforts.
Different Approaches to a Shared Goal
Partnering with DigitalBridge is a natural extension of the College’s commitment to support residents of its four-county service area. While a degree or similar credential can open doors of career opportunity for many people, others might be better served through different forms of education, such as those provided by DigitalBridge.
“VGCC actively seeks out new ways and new partners to reduce the opportunity gap in our communities,” said College President Dr. Rachel Desmarais. “Digital literacy and technology skills are still areas where we see those opportunity gaps. We are excited to partner with DigitalBridge to support opportunity to better jobs in our service area.”
Starting mid-July, DigitalBridge representatives will be available at the Franklin Campus open computer lab each week Tuesdays through Thursdays from 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. The new partnership will officially launch July 13 with a ribbon-cutting ceremony at 8100 NC 56 Highway in Louisburg. Local leaders and government officials will join representatives from the College and DigitalBridge at the event.
To learn more about trainings and services offered by DigitalBridge, visit mydigitalbridge.org or follow DigitalBridge on social media.
