Tempe Workforce Skills Accelerator
The Tempe Workforce Skills Accelerator partnership was created by Rio Salado and Tempe Chamber, offering three online microcredentials to upskill Tempe businesses' workforce. To alleviate financial burdens, 20 scholarships are available through the Tempe Chamber and Tempe Chamber Foundation to member companies who need assistance to offer this opportunity to their workers. This initiative aligns with the City of Tempe's goal to achieve 65% educational attainment among residents aged 25 or older by 2030. The program aims to boost productivity, enhance customer service, and contribute to the economic growth of Tempe.
While scholarship availability may be limited, the programs are available to any Tempe resident.
“Micro-credentials provide a flexible and effective pathway to employment, upskilling and reskilling, economic mobility, and a thriving local economy.” - Rio Salado President Kate Smith
Media Coverage
Tempe Workforce Skills Accelerator Scholarship Now Open
Tempe residents and employees can apply for the Tempe Workforce Skills Accelerator Scholarship, a partnership between Rio Salado College and the Tempe Chamber of Commerce. This program offers scholarships for micro-credential programs in Small Business Management, Data Analytics, and Quality Customer Service. Applicants must meet specific criteria and be enrolled as Rio Salado College students. Scholarships are available on a first-come, first-served basis, with classes starting in November.
Report Gauges Need for Microcredentials, Soft & Hard Skills in Tempe Workforce
Tempe businesses showed support for the benefits of microcredentials— and the additional skills and training they provide the workforce, according to a report released by Rio Salado College and the Tempe Chamber of Commerce. Microcredentials are stackable program credits and certificates that provide specialized career training and educational pathways so students and workers can learn new skills that lead directly to employment or job promotion.
Rio Salado College, Tempe Chamber Create Tempe Workforce Skills Accelerator
Rio Salado College and the Tempe Chamber of Commerce hosted an event Friday, May 5, to unveil a new partnership designed to address workforce skills gaps in Tempe. The selected programs offer training in some of the most desired skills sought by Tempe Chamber employers based on a 2022 survey by the Chamber and Rio Salado. In a survey, nearly two-thirds of the Tempe Chamber of Commerce member respondents expressed an interest in offering microcredentials to their employees.
Tempe Chamber Of Commerce Announces Business Excellence Awards
The Tempe Chamber Business Excellence Awards on May 19th will recognize and celebrate the impactful Tempe Business Community. The State of the Chamber Address will be delivered by Chamber President/CEO, Colin Diaz, ACE, IOM, highlighting accomplishments of the past year and a vision for the future
Audio Section
Rio Salado College partners with Tempe Chamber of Commerce to address gaps in workforce skills
Rio Salado College and the Tempe Chamber of Commerce have formed a training partnership for local businesses. The Tempe Workforce Skills Accelerator program will offer training in small-business management, data analytics and customer service.