Johnson County Community College’s Workforce Development and Continuing Education (WDCE) branch released its FY26 highlights, showing a surge in local workforce training and community outreach. The program served 16,000 individual learners across the Kansas City metro area, partnering with businesses to deliver customized training that aligns with regional employment needs.
Health‑care certifications meet rising demand
In response to a growing need for health‑care workers, WDCE relaunched its Phlebotomy Technician and ECG Technician programs. All courses filled quickly, and students are now sitting for national certification exams and entering the workforce.
New recreational and cultural offerings
December 2025 saw the addition of Introductory Mah Jongg classes, which quickly expanded to intermediate, advanced, and open‑play sessions. The popular tile game now draws beginners and seasoned players alike to JCCC’s campus.
Adult education pathways accelerate careers
Johnson County Adult Education (JCAE) expanded its Accelerating Opportunities‑Kansas (A‑OK) program, allowing students to earn industry‑recognized credentials while completing a high school diploma. This year the program served 25 students, up from 14, in fields such as automotive technology, health‑care CNA, welding, EMT, web development, HVAC, and plumbing.
JCAE also supported 17 English‑language learners who combined language study with Certified Nurse Aide or Commercial Driver’s License training.
Commercial Driver’s License training grows
After completing a new training facility in Edgerton, Kansas, WDCE added a CDL‑B course and a week‑night CDL‑A program, with plans for three additional training pads to increase flexibility for students.
Scholarships and testing services expand
The JCCC Foundation and donors awarded 139 scholarships worth $267,543 to WDCE students. The Regnier Testing Center administered over 4,000 professional exams, prompting expanded evening hours to meet demand.
Outreach and industry partnerships
A direct‑mail campaign sent monthly postcards to Johnson County residents, driving a 131% increase in new website visitors compared with FY25. In partnership with the League for Innovation in the Community College and Owens Corning, WDCE hosted a Roofing Accelerator Pilot, offering five‑day, stackable courses in residential roofing, sales fundamentals, and office operations. Graduates earned nationally recognized certificates and job connections with Owens Corning‑approved contractors.
WDCE also organized a two‑day community event featuring business mixers, equipment demos, and family‑friendly mini‑classes such as calligraphy and portrait drawing.
Support for small‑business owners ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup
The Kansas Small Business Development Center and APEX Accelerator helped KC Game Plan host four on‑campus workshops for more than 260 small‑business owners, covering cybersecurity, capital access, and digital marketing as the region prepares for the upcoming World Cup.
These initiatives underscore JCCC’s commitment to equipping Kansas City residents with the skills, certifications, and support needed to thrive in a changing economy.
Original reporting: Johnson County Post (Overland Park) — read the source article.
