Community colleges form partnership

NEWTON — In an effort to strengthen economic and workforce development in the Northwest New Jersey region, Sussex County Community College (SCCC) and Warren County Community College (WCCC) signed a historic partnership agreement on May 25 that will offer residents an opportunity to take advantage of myriad choices for certification programs and non-credit courses.
"This is an educational agreement/partnership to offer customized training to help strengthen workforce education opportunities in our region by providing non-credit courses and certification training for jobs in demand," said Dr. Jon Connolly, president of SCCC. "Through this unique partnership we are combining the strengths of two institutions with similar goals."
"This is a win-win for residents of both counties," said Dr. Will Austin, president of WCCC. "The partnership streamlines our efforts so that residents can get the most out of their educational pursuits." 
"As colleges we are very similar and face many of the same challenges," Austin said. "As a shared service concept it makes perfect sense that we combine our efforts in what is a very competitive market."
The first courses and programs expected to be offered are predominately in the health/science/allied health related field, such as Dialysis Technician, Physical Therapy Aide, Pharmacy Technician, Veterinary Assistant and Opthalmic Assistant.
"The new partnership between Sussex County Community College and Warren County Community College to provide customized training and noncredit career programs is a wonderful opportunity to build the workforce skills of the two counties," said Dr. Rosalie Lamonte, interim executive county superintendent for both Warren and Sussex. "This will make it easier for students to get the training they need in the job market, and should ultimately strengthen economic development in the Northwest NJ region.  I encourage our Sussex and Warren residents to take advantage of this educational opportunity to advance their skills and employability.”
“The collaboration between SCCC and WCCC is a terrific example of two leaders in higher education working together to enhance the educational offerings to their students, while helping each institution to control costs through a shared service offering the best workforce training for our residents and businesses," said state Sen. Steve Oroho (R), who represents Sussex and part of Warren County in the 24th District. 
State Senator Mike Doherty (R), who represents part of Warren County in the 23rd District, added, “Education is the pathway to opportunity, and focusing courses and training to match jobs in demand is a smart move to maximize those opportunities for students. I commend the partnership between WCCC and SCCC, which will boost the economic prospects of participants and ensure that local businesses have access to a skilled workforce.”
It is expected that several courses and programs will begin this fall. Course information will be available on both the SCCC and WCCC websites, www.sussex.edu/ce and www.warren.edu/ce.