Photo: Workforce development student, Jennifer Cruz of Bridgeton (center) cuts a ceremonial ribbon, signaling the official opening of Rowan College of South Jersey's Workforce Development at the Alms Center in Bridgeton.​

County and municipal officials, administrators and staff representing Rowan College of South Jersey, and members of the community gathered at the Alms Center in Bridgeton, on January 22, to witness a ribbon-cutting ceremony. The event, which included an open house, marked the expansion of the college's Workforce Development programs and services into the greater Bridgeton area.

​By offering education and training in high-demand sectors, Rowan College of South Jersey (RCSJ) at the Alms Center aims to become a hub for businesses, students and community members to gain access to affordable workforce development opportunities.

“It is exciting to have the opportunity to support our residents' career goals in the western part of the county," said Dr. Terrence Hardee, D.Litt., executive director of Workforce and Career Services. “Our goals are to unlock the doors of opportunity and improve the lives of Cumberland County residents. With this great partnership with the Bridgeton community, we will be able to expand services throughout Cumberland County."

Bridgeton resident Jennifer Cruz returned to college in 2018 and completed a workforce development course to become a medical administrative assistant. Her externship quickly turned into full-time employment.

“Working in the medical field makes me see things differently in life. The best part for me is being hands on with patients," she said.

Cruz plans to stack her credentials and further her education by completing Cumberland's Medical Coding and Billing, and Electronic Health Records Specialist programs.

“It's never too late to make moves in life and to better yourself," said Cruz.

For more information about Rowan College of South Jersey's Workforce Development programs, call 856-776-2372.​