In a groundbreaking move, Saint Paul College has unveiled a series of certification programs to prepare individuals for Minnesota’s rapidly expanding cannabis industry. This initiative comes on the heels of the legalization of recreational cannabis on August 1, which opened numerous job opportunities in the state.
Brady Malecha, the Program Manager at Saint Paul College, highlights the college’s mission to make entering the cannabis field as seamless as possible. “We’re striving to remove as many barriers as we can, enabling individuals to build a comprehensive skillset for this dynamic industry,” Malecha stated. In partnership with Green Flower, a renowned cannabis education company, the college has introduced three specialized certification courses.
The innovative courses offered include:
- Cannabis Retail Specialist: Focused on customer service, this course teaches students about interacting with clients and assisting them in finding suitable cannabis products.
- Cannabis Cultivation Specialist: Concentrating on the botanical aspects, this course offers in-depth knowledge about growing and nurturing cannabis plants.
- Product Development: This program educates students on the intricacies of cannabis dosages and its various forms.
Introduced last week, these programs feature a ‘rolling enrollment’ system, providing continuous admission opportunities. “Our enrollment system is designed to be as inclusive and flexible as possible,” said Malecha.
What sets these 9-week courses apart is their practical orientation. Upon completion, students receive certifications and access a job portal similar to Indeed, expediting their entry into the cannabis workforce. “We provide end-to-end support, from education to employment,” Malecha emphasized.
In contrast to the typical 2 to 4-year, expensive cannabis degree programs, Saint Paul College’s offerings are both affordable and brief. “We’ve priced each certificate at $750 with payment plans available, making education in this field more accessible than ever,” Malecha explained.
These certifications are timely and relevant. Even as Minnesota awaits the full-scale launch of its recreational retail cannabis sector, these courses offer immediate applicability in the current medical cannabis market. The courses are open to anyone aged 18 and over and are entirely online, offering flexibility and ease of access to learners nationwide.
Saint Paul College’s initiative is more than just an educational opportunity. It’s a pivotal contribution to the state’s cannabis industry. By providing targeted, practical training, the college is facilitating individual career advancements and bolstering the professional standards and growth of the cannabis sector in Minnesota.
The impact of such educational programs is poised to be significant. As the cannabis industry continues to evolve, the demand for knowledgeable and skilled professionals will only increase. Saint Paul College’s foresight in launching these programs positions it as a leader in cannabis education, setting an example for other institutions to follow.
Saint Paul College’s introduction of these cannabis certification courses marks a significant milestone in the educational landscape of Minnesota. Catering to the growing demand for skilled professionals in the cannabis industry, these programs are tailored to offer practical, affordable, and accessible education. As the cannabis sector in Minnesota and beyond continues to mature, the role of educational institutions like Saint Paul College in shaping its future becomes increasingly vital.
