The Wyoming Department of Workforce Services (DWS) announces the launch of a new program that will help Wyoming residents learn new skills, allowing them to improve their current roles or maintain employment. UpSkilling Wyoming, funded through the American Rescue Plan Act, opens on March 1, with enrollment ending Dec. 31, 2024.

“This program will offer opportunities for Wyoming residents to gain access to high-quality, in-demand jobs through online training, trade schools, our community colleges, and other avenues,” Lynda Dean, UpSkilling Wyoming Program Manager, says. “UpSkilling Wyoming will absolutely make a difference in the lives of Wyoming residents.”

Re-skilling, notes Christina West, DWS Deputy Administrator of Employment and Training, refers to retraining and learning new skills. “UpSkilling, however, is a longer-term investment for individuals, allowing them to augment the knowledge and skills that will help them advance their careers, or strengthen their current employment.”

Open to Wyoming residents 16 years and older, financial assistance for the program may be available if applicants meet at least one of the following criteria:

• Became unemployed or underemployed during or as a result of the pandemic (March 13, 2020 – May 11, 2023); or
• Household income is at or below 300% of the federal poverty guidelines.

Interested individuals may contact Lynda Dean by phone at 307-338-7749 or by email at lynda.dean1@wyo.gov, or visit the website at dws.wyo.gov/UpSkill.