Preparing a qualified workforce is one of the most important missions of the University. The UA Statewide Workforce Programs’ role is to help facilitate developing industry-driven training and degree programs focused on providing skilled Alaskan workers for Alaskan jobs.

“UA offers programs from developmental preparatory classes, continuing education, career and technical training, professional development training, and degree programs from associate’s to post-doctoral. From drillers to doctors, certified nurses to certified engineers, and culinary arts to climate change, all these programs are relevant to the UA workforce development effort,” says Fred Villa, associate vice president for UA Workforce Programs.

In addition to baccalaureate and master’s degree programs such as nursing, engineering and accounting that involve internships and lead directly to employment, UA campuses provide hundreds of short-term training programs that get people out of the classroom and into a job in 1-2 years or less.

Each campus offers unique programs as well as collaborates across the system to meet education and training needs. Two initiatives currently underway include the Fisheries, Seafood and Maritime Initiative and the Consolidated Alaska Mining Initiative.