FORT MYERS, Fla. - Aug. 10, 2020 - As Florida continues to manage the impact of COVID-19, Goodwill Industries of Southwest Florida (SWFL) is facilitating new digital skills training to help learners prepare for job transformations that are unfolding across every sector and industry.

Labor experts believe that even entry level workers will now be expected to use a variety of digital devices and equipment. Here are a few examples of technology use by industry:

· Restaurant workers complete food safety training utilizing virtual reality (https://bit.ly/39pNPFU) goggles.

· Home health aides record patient information on tablets.

· Retail clerks process returns on smartphone applications.

· Manufacturing workers assemble parts with augmented reality.

Workers need digital literacy to perform these actions. They will require knowledge of these types of technologies and the cognitive skills to navigate them successfully. Unfortunately, National Skills Coalition data (https://bit.ly/30Nf0GO) indicates that one-third of American workers currently lack the vital digital skills needed to perform these actions. The digital divide is even more significant in low-income, rural communities of Southwest Florida where families lack access to technology.

Mid-August, Goodwill SWFL is rolling out Career Campus, free digital skills training that offers industry recognized certificates upon completion. These certificate programs range from basic computer introduction to QuickBooks, Excel and Adobe Premier. Classes are self-paced and can be done in a virtual format from home, or at one of the Goodwill Career Resource Centers. Prepare yourself to pivot to a new employment environment, connect with your local Goodwill Community Resource Coordinator to get signed up for Career Campus. Visit www.goodwillswfl.org for a list of locations.

Contact
Goodwill Industries of SWFL
Debra Donatto