Webber University Partners with MedCerts to Offer Online Training in Health Care, IT

Webber International University is doubling down on its commitment to educate students and further train current employees. Their focus is in the healthcare and information technology (IT) industries. They have been working with an online company to develop its corporate workforce initiative. 

MedCerts is a national training provider offering eLearning solutions in the high-demand areas of healthcare and IT. Webber University and MedCerts are collaborating to “enhance educational opportunities for Webber students and residents across Polk County,” according to the college. 

“While assessing the needs of the local community, the university’s leadership identified a need for short-term workforce training that is flexible with those who cannot attend traditional classes,” said Ryan Reis, Director of Annual Fund and Alumni Affairs at Webber. “MedCerts is just one of several partnerships the institution researched with the hope of providing much-needed workforce training.” 

Thoughts From Webber University Leaders

Nelson Marquez, President/CEO for Webber, said: “Webber’s partnership with MedCerts solidifies the university’s strong commitment to preparing students for success in their chosen careers and strengthening the state’s workforce. This also signals Webber’s commitment to serving the community and meeting the workforce needs. Not only through degree programs, but also through short-term educational opportunities that will provide students the required training for the in-demand skills in today’s job market.” 

Provost Kenneth Reaves said the university has a duty to help residents achieve their work and career goals through education and training opportunities. “Our partnership with MedCerts allows us to support both those entering the workforce and those already employed by providing them with the necessary skills and certifications to thrive. We are committed to offering not only short-term educational programs but also degree pathways. Our aim is to equip individuals with the knowledge and qualifications they need to succeed in their chosen fields.” 

Industry Support

Webber has had initial conversations with the business community about the programs, according to Reis. “The responses from the business community have been positive. Now that the program is in place, Webber hopes to attract individual students as well as form strong partnerships with those businesses that would like to provide additional training opportunities to their employees.”  

Scott Dimmick, Senior Vice President & Chief Human Resources Officer at Lakeland Regional Health, said such offerings are important.  

“Lakeland Regional Health prioritizes educational partnerships in the community, furthering opportunities for our team,” he said. “As we continue to grow, adding new talent, developing talent in our current workforce is a high priority. Our career advancement programs offer team members pathways to grow and develop both professionally and personally. Creating an even stronger healthcare workforce for our community and our patients receiving care.” 

Webber said its new partnership “marks a significant step in creating a seamless pathway for students to acquire specialized knowledge and skills in high-demand fields. The online short-term training programs will provide students an opportunity to receive credentials and certificates in high skills and high wage areas.” 

Program Offerings

The programs allow working adults to gain new skills while accommodating their busy schedules. It also enables local businesses to partner with Webber to provide training opportunities for their employees.  

An example of the programs offered are: 

• Pharmacy technician certification lasts 25 weeks and costs $4,000.

• Physical therapy aid certification lasts 18 weeks and costs $4,000. 

• The Fundamentals of IT program lasts three weeks and costs $1,300.

• The IT Network Technician lasts six weeks and costs $2,300.

Most of the programs run about three months. But, depending on the program, it could run from one to eight months.       

“Webber’s partnership with MedCerts allows working adults and students to complete the online asynchronous course at their pace within the given time to complete the program,” Reis said. “Students in programs that will require hands-on training will be directed to those opportunities.” 

Classes will begin August 1. To learn more about the training programs and view the complete list, visit https://medcerts.com/start/webber or email WorkForce1@webber.edu. 

“Partnering with Webber International University is a significant step for MedCerts in advancing career-focused training programs in healthcare and information technology,” said Jennifer Kolb, Vice President of Partnerships and Workforce Development at MedCerts. “This collaboration underscores our commitment to empowering students and residents across Polk County with essential skills for success in today’s dynamic job market. Together, we’re bridging education and workforce needs, ensuring individuals are well-prepared for fulfilling careers.”