Workforce Development

Hands-On Learning and Real World Skills

The name UConn often brings to mind undergraduate classrooms in Storrs. But across the state, UConn Extension programs are preparing youth, adults, and seasoned professionals for the workforce through hands-on, community-based training.

“Extension is important because it’s the connection to the university for the people who will never go to Storrs,” says Julie Keithan of Higganum, a program participant and volunteer. “It brings the university to the everyday person with useful information that people need in their everyday lives.”

Each year, thousands of people benefit from this community-based training, which strengthens Connecticut’s workforce and economy.

“Back in the early 1900s, it became obvious to Congress that land-grant universities were not reaching their full potential by teaching only enrolled students, which led to the legislative creation of the Cooperative Extension service to connect people throughout each state with practical knowledge and applied research to develop stronger industries and communities,” said Amy Harder, associate dean of UConn Extension.

Land-grant universities like UConn have a three-part mission: teaching, research, and extension. That mission ensures not all learning happens on campus.

Extension programs are built around the needs of the people they serve, linking academic knowledge to industry priorities. Whether through a one-day workshop or series that leads to certification, participants leave with skills they can immediately put to work.

Annually, over 1,200 people earn certificates from UConn Extension workforce development programs. Across multiple programs, more than 10,900 participants reported increasing their knowledge, and 7,200 adopted behaviors to improve their communities. Many are returning to Extension programs this year to further their knowledge and improve their skills.

Looking ahead, UConn Extension continues to adapt to meet emerging needs. Partnerships with state agencies, industry groups, and K–12 schools strengthen Extension’s commitment to accessible, affordable, and skills-based education. With UConn Extension, education can happen anywhere—and often does.

Read the full article at s.uconn.edu/workforcedevelopment.