Page 67 - 2015 Compass Now
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The importance of lifelong learning is not only visible in the workforce. Learning new skills throughout
the lifespan develops abilities, adds openness and interest to life, and keeps skills current in an ever-
changing world. Respondents to the COMPASS NOW 2015 Random Household Survey were asked to rate
the availability of community resources to learn new skills (Figure 20), and on average, 22% ranked this
as excellent. Residents of the Great Rivers Region have several opportunities to explore job training and
professional development outside of their employer through licensure and certification programs at Western
Technical College, continuing education at UW-L, independent learning programs through UW-Extension,
and job training programs offered by Workforce Connections, a non-profit organization largely funded by the
Workforce Investment Act to provide training and employment assistance to displaced workers.
Figure 20: Community Resources to Learn New Skills
29.5% Poor/Fair Good Excellent 29.0%
13.2% 13.9%
48.6% 34.2% 12.5% 36.7% 46.8%
21.8% 23.4%
La Crosse 49.4% 24.2%
52.6% 64.1% Houston
Vernon
Monroe Trempealeau EDUCATION
Source: COMPASS NOW 2015 Random Household Survey
COMPASS NOW 2015 59
