Online digital skills program preps locals for high-demand careers

in Community/Featured/Headline

A new online program in San Mateo County aims to fill a skills gap for Bay Area companies by training local residents in digital marketing technologies and applied business science.

GreenFig is a San Mateo-based micro education company that has partnered with the San Mateo County Community College District (SMCCD) to offer the interactive online program that can lead to certifications and careers for county residents. The program, which just completed its first semester in the county, provides hands-on training led by industry experts and the opportunity to be certified in Applied Business Science and technologies such as Google Analytics, Google Ads, Facebook advertising, Salesforce and the TradeDesk.

The college district is inviting a wide variety of applicants, particularly those with a “can do” attitude. Program participants gain industry certifications by working directly on projects for Bay Area companies, according to SMCCD.

The program just completed its first semester in the county. Twenty students participated in the GreenFig Digital Marketing Science course thanks to scholarships provided by a local marketing technology company, according to the county.

Stephanie Wallace, a Cañada College student, had no prior marketing experience when she joined the GreenFig program. She came with an extensive customer service background and experience helping children with special needs. Wallace said the program has offered “practical experience and certifications” along with valuable connections to industry experts.

Another Cañada College student in the program, Cecilia Chung, has landed multiple interviews as a result, according to SMCCD. At the end of the program, students participate in a meet-to-hire event.

“I haven’t seen another course that offers students as many opportunities and real-life collaborative experiences,” Chung said.

Students interested in the program can here for GreenFig’s Spring Digital Marketing Science Certification program.

For those wanting to learn more about partnering with CCCE and GreenFig, contact CCCE Executive Director Jonathan Bissell at bissellj@smccd.edu.