Working For the Man

In Rhode Island’s struggling job environment, the importance of continued learning cannot be overstated. New technologies like Analytics and SEO have revolutionized the way businesses do, well, business, while the rapidity of research keeps job professionals busy learning more about their industry. The following classes are great for individuals looking to nurture either their entrepreneurial spirit or climb higher on the corporate ladder.

Level: Casual
As with the last section, let’s take it slow: the Seekonk Public Library offers a ton of Computer Classes, and they range from simplistic lessons on how to use email or Google Drive, to ways in which LinkedIn can help with the job search. These basic, from-the-ground-up computer classes help to give the technologically unsavvy a chance of surviving in the job market. Call for schedule. 410 Newman Ave, Seekonk. 508-336-8230.

Even the best employee in the world (this writer, of course) can own the worst resume (this writer’s, of course). But that simple piece of paper is the megaphone through which job seekers shout out their abilities and skillsets. Don’t miss another job opportunity due to a messy, disorganized resume: join the Middletown Public Library’s Resume Building Classes to “learn how to put together an effective resume.” Call for schedule. 700 West Main Rd, Middletown. 401-846-1573.

Level: Energetic

Already past the point of computer literacy? Have a bachelor’s but want to know more about the ins and outs of business? Look no further than nearby UMass Dartmouth, as they offer a wide range of certificate programs, such as Accounting, Finance, Business Foundations and Web & Interaction Design. These certificates can be taken as stand-alone classes, or they can be applied towards a master’s degree (if the student decides later to pursue that avenue). Check site for prices and schedule. 285 Old Westport Rd, North Dartmouth. 508-999-8000. 

In this little state, driving more than ten minutes might as well be considered an ordeal: “I have to go all the way to Dartmouth for classes?” But don’t worry, for the Rhode Island driving distance becomes a non-existent problem when considering that Roger Williams University also offers certificate programs. In this fine establishment, one can learn about Public Management and Leadership, two crucial foundations for any worthwhile business. Sign up today to start learning how to wear the pants around the office. Check site for prices and schedule. 1 Old Ferry Rd, Bristol. 401-253-1040. 

For those living farther south in the East Bay, even Bristol can feel too far. Thankfully, Newport’s Salve Regina University also offers a plethora of certificate programs. Here, their certificate programs allow students to “pursue graduate study” without having to invest “in obtaining a master’s degree.” Whether you want to learn about International Relations, Business Administration or Management, these classes make it easy to dabble in the area. Check site for prices and schedule. 100 Ochre Point Avenue, Newport. 401-847-6650.

Level: Experimental
The life of an adult is crammed with time commitments. Especially when kids enter the picture. For individuals too busy to escape the house for any length of time, there’s the Online Learning courses offered by the Center for Women & Enterprise. Their classes are specifically designed for people busy with “juggling work and family commitment” but passionate about “starting a business.” Head online to view their free 30-minute presentation titled “10 Steps to Starting a Business,” or sign up for a six-week instructor facilitated online course to “Create Your Business Plan.” Check site for prices and schedule. 132 George M. Cohan Blvd, 2nd Floor, Providence. 401-277-0800.