PETOSKEY—North Central Michigan College has announced the addition of 10 new Fast Track career programs that allow students to earn industry-recognized credentials online and on their own schedule, with the ability to complete some programs in as little as three weeks.
The programs were chosen due to a high regional demand for employees with particular skillsets and certifications, according to Christy Lyons, North Central’s director of Corporate and Community Education.
“We’re focusing first on a handful of sought-after program areas, including healthcare, manufacturing, skilled trades and business,” Lyons said. “These programs are designed to allow students to start today and begin a new career quickly, with funding and job placement assistance as a bonus.”
Financial assistance from the Michigan Learning & Education Advancement Program is available to offset, or in some cases cover, the cost of tuition, which varies by program. Programs include:
- Electronic Health Records Specialist
- Medical Assistant
- Patient Care Technician
- Pharmacy Technician
- Phlebotomy Technician
- Automotive Repair Technician
- HVAC Technician
- Intro to Mechatronics
- CNC Operator
- Bookkeeping With Quickbooks
Programs range in duration from three weeks for Phlebotomy Technician certification to 24 weeks for Patient Care Technician certification. While students can complete the majority of coursework online, some programs include in-person skills training or an externship. Lyons is working with local employers to arrange externship opportunities.
The college’s first Fast Track offering, a 20-week Fast Track Healthcare bundle program launched in May, saw enrollment at capacity, with 22 students enrolled.
For more information about North Central’s Fast Track career programs, visit www.ncmich.edu/fast-track.