WARWICK – The Community College of Rhode Island last month launched an effort aimed at allowing workers to acquire career-specific skills in a relatively short time frame for two high-growth fields, thanks in part to a federal grant.

According to a news release, resources for the initiative come from a $3.4 million U.S. Department of Labor Trade Adjustment Assistance Community College to Career grant announced last fall to give out-of-work Rhode Islanders the chance to acquire industry-recognized credentials in health care and information technology. Run through a partnership with the R.I. Department of Labor and Training, CCRI’s Pathways to Advance Career Education Program will focus on providing assistance to the long-term unemployed, veterans and those affected by jobs sent overseas. However, course offerings are not limited to those groups. Classes begin this summer. •