Ready for Industry prepares Kentuckians with training in high-demand fields 

Work Matters Column by Jennifer Carman 

Success in any new career hinges on solid preparation. For workforce professionals like myself, it is essential to provide resources that position workers in high-demand fields for success. 

A new program—Ready for Industry—was recently launched in Kentucky to address this need. As workforce development manager for Kentucky Career Center-Lincoln Trail (KCC-LT) , I leverage this program to guide participants through essential industry knowledge, terminology and career pathways, along with ongoing support from a dedicated team to help navigate challenges along the way.

In July 2024, Gov. Andy Beshear announced that Kentuckians can now access the Ready for Industry online learning program at no cost, helping residents prepare for in-demand jobs across several industries. This access is funded through a $5 million U.S. Department of Labor grant awarded to Kentucky’s Education and Labor Cabinet.

Kentucky is the fifth state to offer free, statewide access to the Ready for Industry program, empowering businesses, workforce development groups, educational institutions and other organizations to bolster workforce skills at no cost. The program serves as a bridge between standard education and the knowledge needed to succeed in industry.

Ready for Industry offers self-paced, online instruction tailored to specific industries. Each course, lasting 15 to 20 hours, helps job seekers understand key aspects of high-demand fields such as construction, healthcare, IT, logistics and manufacturing. The program covers essential topics such as industry norms, common practices, workplace expectations, career paths, job opportunities, current trends and relevant certifications, helping participants gain a comprehensive understanding of various high-demand fields.

The courses are designed for late high school, early postsecondary and career-seeking learners. It is also geared towards employers for attracting and selecting talent and related technical instruction for training initiatives. 

In addition, the program now includes National Occupational Competency Testing Institute (NOCTI) credentials for each sector,

adding valuable, industry-recognized certifications that boost participants' employability and career growth. These credentials are widely respected, offering concrete proof of specialized knowledge and skills across fields, which enhances the program's value for both individuals and organizations.

Individuals interested in enrolling in Ready for Industry courses can register through any participating partner, including local Career Centers, workforce partners, and participating businesses and educational institutions. To register online, simply visit kcc.ky.gov and follow the easy steps outlined on the website. 

As our region continues to grow, jobs in the industries that Ready for Industry targets are becoming increasingly essential and plentiful. At the Kentucky Career Center-Lincoln Trail, we are excited to support this valuable initiative that helps equip our community with the skills needed for these in-demand fields.

For more information on Ready for Industry or to sign up for your free account, visit ReadyforIndustry.com/KY. Kentucky Career Center locations can be found in Elizabethtown, Bardstown, Fort Knox, Lebanon and Leitchfield.

Jennifer Carman serves as Workforce Development Manager for the Kentucky Career Center - Lincoln Trail. She can be reached at Jennifer.Carman@ky.gov.