Connecticut State Employee Training Program
The Connecticut State Employee Training Program supports your professional growth and development as a state employee with high-quality courses and diverse training opportunities through CT State Community College. This program is offered in both the spring and fall with a mix of online and in-person courses.
The Connecticut State Employee Training Program invites participation from all state agencies and employees at every level, whether you are a seasoned participant or new to the program. This initiative is dedicated to fostering a skilled, knowledgeable and dynamic workforce across the state. CT State courses are listed below. The Connecticut State Employee Training Program offers courses also available at Southern CT State University
Through these programs, you may engage in training that focuses on:
Develop core competencies crucial for day-to-day operations and organizational success.
This program ensures cost-effective, accessible training designed to help you meet your agency goals efficiently while delivering high levels of customer service. Many courses are offered online, providing flexibility and convenience without the need to travel to a campus.
Upcoming Course Offerings
If you are a State employee who would like to register for training at CT State Community College using funding from your agency, please see your Training Approval Officer (TAO) to complete the required paperwork.
If you are a State employee who would like to register for training at CT State Community College using a charge card for private pay or later reimbursement from your union, etc., please contact one of the coordinators below and the class you would like to register.
- Business and Workplace Skills
- Computer Skills and Technology
- Leadership, Management and Supervision
- Additional Courses Offered by Southern University
Business and Workplace Skills
A Mindfulness Guide to Productivity, Peace—and Sleep!Learn techniques to increase workplace productivity while reducing stress and anxiety. This workshop explores mindfulness strategies, meditation and mental clarity exercises. CRN: AS-81520 |
Always Know the Right Thing to SayThis workshop equips participants with strategies to enhance workplace communication, enabling them to respond effectively in professional situations. Learn key phrases, assertiveness techniques and conflict resolution methods. CRN: AS-81514 |
Applying Sport Psychology to the WorkplaceDiscover how sport psychology principles boost workplace performance, motivation, and teamwork. Learn strategies for resilience, focus, goal setting, and effective leadership to enhance collaboration and productivity. CRN: MA-81450 |
Anxiety and Stress Relief for Peak Performance – and Peace!One in six adults have experienced symptoms of anxiety in the past two weeks. 49% of Americans report frequently feeling stress in their daily life. Learn strategies, exercises, and coping mechanisms to help you reduce your anxiety and stress. This workshop is filled with practical strategies and exercises to help you learn how to live a more meaningful day, reduce anxiety and cope with workplace stress. CRN: NW-81542 |
Beginning Grant Writing WorkshopA follow-up to "Introduction to Grant Writing," this course allows students to practice writing a grant using the Connecticut Common Grant Application form. Topics include drafting sections of a grant, peer and instructor reviews and creating a complete draft proposal. Prerequisite: Introduction to Grant Writing or minor experience in grant writing. CRN: MA-81324 |
Best Practices of Effective Workplace WritingTo look at the fundamentals of clear business writing, and the role it plays in a state agency. We look at grammar, sentence structure, most common forms of workplace writing, effective body language, the role of AI assistance in writing, team writing and more. This course is interactive and will require a bit of additional work outside of the class hours. Outcomes include improving written content clarity, formatting and proofreading skills. Engaging, helpful and fun! CRN: NV-81204 |
Business Analyst (EBCA Certification)The course will spend most of the time on enterprise analysis, requirement development, 'use case' development, project lifecycle, meeting coordination, critical thinking, teamwork/collaboration, prioritization, and documentation. Students will learn how to identify business problems, collaborate on solutions, develop specifications (with traceability), and implement. Students will work on a mock run of a project by developing business justification and will work on a PowerPoint presentation including Project Mission, Pros and Cons, High level requirements, Requirement estimations, Project plan, Testing phase and implementation to gain an understanding of the System Development Life Cycle (SDLC). Students will also present the mock run to a panel for project feedback and to understand the project approval and funding components. Course will be a combination of lecture and computer-based training. Speakers may include the following: Business Analysts (BA) in the Waterfall and Agile Domains, Project Managers, Cyber Security BA’s, Data Analytics BA’s, IT Recruiters, and IIBA academics to explain the ECBA application process. Embedded throughout the course is the ability to analyze data. This is a powerful skill that contributes to better business decision outcomes. Data Analysis is a high demand skill set that is a key component in multiple career paths (including a Business Analyst). Microsoft Excel is one of the top tools for data analysis. At the conclusion of the course, the content covered will prepare the student to take the ECBA exam. An exam voucher will be included and distributed upon completion. Prerequisite: Bachelor's degree or equivalent years of experience CRN: GW-81086 |
Career Success BuilderThis course helps you build the skills and confidence needed to succeed in your career. Learn how to set goals, develop your professional presence and manage your career growth. |
Communication Skills a MustEver think of the perfect thing to say–when it's too late? Or perhaps you're becoming frustrated with the amount of explanation it takes for others just to get the job done. This certificate program will help you build essential and effective communication skills–whether you're interacting with clients or co-workers virtually, reporting upward, or working as part of an actual or virtual team. You'll learn to manage emotional responses, develop intuition (internal wisdom), create "default language," and enhance your critical thinking skills under stress to position yourself as a true professional. CRN: AS-TBD |
Decision-Making and Problem-Solving StrategiesLearn simple but effective strategies for effective decision-making and problem-solving. Whether it’s isolating an error in a technical process, finding roadblocks in your own productivity, or dealing with an under-performing employee, this interactive workshop provides the framework for identifying root causes of issues and developing long-term solutions. CRN: NW-81543 |
Effective NegotiationsThis course is designed to help you learn how to negotiate effectively by moving away from confrontational thinking and conflict-based negotiating. It includes practice exercises and critiques to help individuals gain the confidence to work with difficult negotiators. By the end of this session, you will:
CRN: NV-81248 |
Emotional IntelligenceExplore emotional intelligence concepts and practices to improve self-awareness, empathy and relationships in the workplace. Learn to enhance your emotional intelligence for personal and professional growth. CRN: AS-TBD |
Grant Writing Basic and AdvancedBASIC: This course works to build an understanding of the politics, terminology and processes of effective grant writing. It provides a road map to successful grant applications, but only briefly mentions state and federal grants, focusing more on private and foundation grant funding. By the end of this session, participants will:
ADVANCED: This course builds on the materials presented in Grant Writing for Beginners. It is designed to be the next stage for those looking to apply for state and federal grants. The course covers the online systems that one must navigate to find, research and successfully apply for state and federal grant funding. By the end of the session, the participants will be able to:
CRN: NV-81244 |
Introduction to AI for Writing and ProductivityLearn how AI can enhance workplace productivity and writing skills. Experiment with AI tools and effective prompt engineering techniques. CRN: AS-81517 CRN: TBD |
Introduction to Grant WritingThis course covers key strategies for writing effective grant proposals. Topics include the Connecticut Common Grant Application form, project descriptions, budgeting, research methods and meeting funders. Students will also learn how to cope with rejection and utilize Online (Live Remote) resources for grant writing. CRN: MA-81323 |
Introduction to Personal FinanceHands-on introductory class to personal finance. You'll have the opportunity to review and evaluate identifying income, expenses, cyclical expenses, creating a budget, personal finance metrics, credit score, savings (a variety of savings options) and other useful information and resources and tools regarding personal finance. Microsoft Office tools are primarily used for this course. Many helpful and excellent resources and sites are shared during this class to assist in developing an individual guide to personal finance. CRN: NV-81243 |
Level Up Your Customer Service SkillsThis course will teach you how to provide exceptional customer service, with practical tools for handling customer needs, resolving issues and exceeding expectations. CRN: AS-81501 |
Neuroplasticity: Train the Brain for Better PerformanceNeuroplasticity is the concept that the brain is plastic and capable of change. Your brain is designed to learn, grow and rewire itself throughout life. The key is using your brain's neuroplasticity to create new habits that enhance the quality of your professional and personal life. You can activate your brain's "delete button" to change your unwanted behavior, thinking and emotions. This highly interactive workshop teaches the ten fundamentals of neuroplasticity to help rewire your brain for success. CRN: AS-81512 |
OSHA 10This self-paced OSHA 10 course is designed to provide workers in various industries—including healthcare, electrical, manufacturing and warehouse settings—with essential safety training. It covers general industry hazards (excluding construction-only jobs). Upon passing the final assessment, participants will receive an OSHA-10 national certification. |
Productivity Under PressureLearn strategies for staying productive and managing stress in high-pressure situations. This workshop focuses on improving time management and mental focus when working under tight deadlines. CRN: AS-81519 |
Recharge and Renew: A Guide to Growth and Mental HealthFocus on mental well-being and personal growth strategies. Learn how to recharge, renew and foster a healthy mindset for professional and personal success. CRN: AS-81523 |
Technical WritingLearn the skills needed for effective technical writing in the workplace. This course covers writing clear, concise and professional documents such as manuals, instructions and reports. CRN: AS- 81518 |
Time Management Tips, Tricks and Take-AwaysThis workshop will help you increase productivity, manage time stress and enjoy your workday through proven methods like storyboarding, SWOT analysis and goal setting. CRN: AS-81513 |
Virtual and In-Person Presentation SkillsMaster the art of presenting both virtually and in person. Learn techniques to engage audiences, create effective presentations and communicate your ideas clearly. CRN: NW-80729 |
Computer Skills and Technology
Adobe Acrobat: PDF Files, Formats and FormsCreate Adobe PDF files from Word, Excel, emails or web pages while maintaining formatting and fonts. Use a variety of tools to edit, combine pages, place graphics, import and export content and assign security. Create electronic forms for easy, secure distribution, collaboration and data collection. Create interactive text fields, check boxes, drop-down menus and more. CRN: MA-81329 |
CISSP ReviewThis Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP) Review course prepares students for the CISSP certification exam by covering security principles, risk management, asset security, cryptography and security architecture. Ideal for professionals seeking CISSP certification. CRN: MA-81339 |
Cybersecurity Framework V2.0This intensive course covers the latest version of the NIST Cybersecurity Framework (CSF), focusing on risk assessment, threat mitigation and security best practices for organizations. Participants will learn how to implement security measures aligned with industry standards. CRN: MA-81337 |
Excel BeginnerThis beginner-friendly course covers fundamental Excel skills, including data entry, formulas, formatting and basic charts. CRN: NW-81456 CRN: NW-81457 |
Excel IntermediateThis beginner-friendly course covers fundamental Excel skills, including data entry, formulas, formatting and basic charts. CRN: NW-81456 CRN: NW-81457 |
Excel AdvancedThis advanced Excel course focuses on macros, automation, advanced formulas and data visualization techniques to enhance productivity. CRN: NW-81555 |
Excel 2019: Intermediate–V Lookups, Pivot Tables and MoreIntermediate Excel is intended for those with previous experience in using Microsoft Excel 365 and who are proficient with basic Excel skills. The main topics covered in this course: Text and Date Functions, Named Ranges, Summarizing Data, Tables, Pivot Tables, Charts and Slicers, Data Validation, Conditional Logic, Automating Lookups, V Lookups, H Lookups, X Lookups, Recording Macros and Professional Dashboards. Better data analysis and presentation, as well as the required skill set for certification in Microsoft Excel. CRN: NV-81249 |
Excel DashboardsThis course teaches students to build real-time Excel dashboards by importing data, using functions, creating charts, pivot tables, interactive filters and macros. It also covers dashboard design, visual element control, security and publishing dynamic dashboards to applications like PowerPoint. Prerequisites: Excel Data and Functions course, Excel Pivot Tables course or equivalent knowledge. Students must also have prior knowledge of functions, formulas, sorting and filtering, pivot tables, pivot charts and slicers. CRN: MA-81332 |
Excel Data and FunctionsThis comprehensive course teaches students to harness the full power of Excel by mastering pivot tables for detailed data analysis, custom calculations, filtering, grouping and conditional formatting. It emphasizes creating clear, annotated reports and explores advanced pivot table manipulation and slicer design for efficient data filtering and presentation. Prerequisite: Excel Introduction or equivalent (knowledge of simple formulas/functions, charts, basic data sorting and filtering). CRN: MA-81328 |
Excel Pivot Tables and ChartsLearn to use pivot tables to analyze, summarize and visualize data through filtering, sorting, grouping, custom calculations and conditional formatting. The course also covers advanced tools like slicers, timelines, calculated fields and dynamic reporting elements to create clear, interactive and effective data presentations. Prerequisite: Excel Introduction or equivalent (knowledge of simple formulas/functions, charts, basic data sorting and filtering. CRN: MA-81327 |
Excel Power Pivot and Power QueryThis course introduces students to Excel’s advanced data tools—Power Query and Power Pivot—for modern data analysis and business intelligence. Students will learn to clean, transform and model large datasets, use DAX for advanced calculations and build interactive dashboards through hands-on, real-world projects. Prerequisite: Excel Data & Functions, Pivot Tables and Dashboard courses or permission of the coordinator or instructor. CRN: MA-81333 |
Excel Programming with VBALearn how to automate tasks in Excel using Visual Basic for Applications (VBA). Topics include macros, debugging and creating user-defined functions. |
Introduction to AI and Copilot (Microsoft)This is a hands-on, virtual introductory course that utilizes MS Copilot and AI. This class will be using Copilot Chat for brainstorming, analyzing, and creating files using MS Excel, PowerPoint and Word. No prior experience necessary! CRN: NV-81257 |
MS AccessThis course introduces Microsoft Access, covering database design, table relationships, queries, forms and report generation. CRN: AS-81515 |
PowerPoint Level 1Learn to create visually engaging PowerPoint presentations using slide layouts, animations and multimedia integration. CRN: AS-81516 |
PowerPoint Level 2Expanding on PowerPoint Level 1, this course covers advanced design techniques, interactive elements and collaboration tools. CRN: AS-81527 |
Word Level 1This introductory Microsoft Word course teaches students how to create, edit and format documents. Topics include text formatting, page layouts, headers and footers and basic table creation. CRN: AS-81524 CRN: AS-81525 |
Word Level 2Building upon Word Level 1, this course covers advanced document formatting, styles, mail merge and collaboration tools such as track changes and comments. CRN: AS-81526 CRN: AS-TBD |
Leadership, Management and Supervision
Communication For Supervisors and Other LeadersLearn what to say and how to say it when navigating the challenging terrain of leadership communication. Develop day-to-day communication practices and strategies to bring back to the workplace that will foster cooperation and collaboration. Learn successful techniques to effectively engage--whether at a Teams meeting, across a desk, or via email. CRN: AS-81511 |
Effective Leadership Techniques for Women – Part IThis session is designed to help women assess their current leadership skills and improve those that they see as needing the most improvement. It stresses confidence, power and the natural skills that women bring to leadership. The session also helps women become more successful in dealing with conflicts, interactions that make them feel powerless and with difficult people. Techniques for ways to manage conflicting priorities are also discussed.
CRN: NV-81246 |
Effective Leadership Techniques for Women – Part IIThis session extends the skills taught in the first session.
CRN: NV-81247 |
Everyday LeadershipYou don't have to be an agency director or CEO to be a leader. Leadership can start right here, right now, in the day-to-day practices and strategies you bring to the workplace. This engaging workshop explores leadership in working life, helping participants develop a toolkit of strategies to enhance their leadership skills, from effective listening to motivational techniques. CRN: AS-TBD |
First Time Supervisor – Part 1Transitioning into a supervisory role can be challenging. This two-day course helps new supervisors develop leadership skills, time-management strategies and conflict-resolution techniques. Topics include team-building, coaching employees and managing the transition from co-worker to supervisor. |
First Time Supervisor – Part 2A continuation of "First Time Supervisor – Part 1," this course focuses on refining leadership styles and building strong teams. Participants will learn advanced management techniques, conflict resolution and coaching strategies to enhance workplace performance. |
Introduction to Strategic PlanningIf you're new to strategic planning or it's been a while since your last plan, Introduction to Strategic Planning will help. Explore strategic planning from its initial framework to vital commitments to accountability. Shape your own approaches to coordination, leadership, effective meetings, SWOT analysis, goals, outcomes, evaluation, follow-up, recordkeeping, distribution, relevance, and sustainability. Use proven sample plans and handy templates to tailor sections of your new strategic plan. Bring your current plan as a starting point. CRN: NV-81203 |
Leadership ToolsLearn what it takes to become a more effective leader. Understand how to leverage your leadership style, while adapting traits based on your secondary leadership style. Discover how to be a more effective “people reader,” communicator, delegator and much more! Leave with a customized “toolkit” of best practices that will help you every day! CRN: AS-81510 |
Leadership TrainingYou will gain a better understanding of the strengths and weaknesses of your leadership style, as well as acquire an abundance of “takeaways” that you can immediately put into practice. We will focus on 5 key areas: self-growth, workplace ethics, communication, team building and change management CRN: AS-TBD |
Leading Effective MeetingsAvoid the common pitfalls of poor meetings and reach your meeting goals. Leading Effective Meetings covers what needs attention before, during, and after various kinds of meetings, beginning with the first question: Do we really need a meeting? Learn to set an agenda, prepare materials, lead the meeting, delegate tasks, coordinate interdepartmental groups, write meeting notes, and follow up on decisions. Your personal action plan will include types of meetings, discussion techniques, difficult personalities, and virtual/hybrid meetings. CRN: TBD |
Leading Together: Best Practices in State GovernmentExamine leadership strategies for state government employees, focusing on collaboration and best practices for effective public service. CRN: AS-81521 |
Listen to Learn and LeadYou may hear well, but do you listen well? With all our workplace distractions and those unconscious biases, you’re missing more than you think. Listening makes you a more effective leader. Listen to Lead offers practical approaches with practice time to get the message. Topics include: listening styles, workplace and personal barriers, bad habits, red flag words, body language, better questions, interviewing, virtual meetings, phone calls, and difficult people. You’ll design a personalized action plan to listen better and help others do the same. CRN: AS-81202 |
Managing with Emotional IntelligenceThis course is designed to provide you with information regarding your own Emotional Intelligence level. How to improve your social skills, emotional control, flexibility, optimism and overall ability to deal with conflicts between people. Acquiring or improving Emotional Intelligence will make you a better communicator and manager. Upon completion of this course, participants will be able to:
CRN: NV-81245 |
Supervising for SuccessLearn strategies for getting the best out of yourself—and your staff. Navigate common roadblocks—from employees who don’t “play well with others” to those who are more interested in texting than working. Learn best supervisory practices and strategies to help your direct reports achieve their personal best. This course centers on understanding motivation, including the intrinsic rewards employees crave, such as recognition and appreciation. CRN: NW-81556 |
Supervisory ClinicExplore practical solutions to common supervisory problems, as well as on-the-spot strategies to help you with every day and chronic supervisory issues. Think of the workshop as a think-tank where you will be able to strategize IRL (In Real Life) solutions with other leaders willing to share best practices! You’ll learn tools for managing performance issues, team motivation and much more. CRN: TBD |
Supervisory Skills/ ManagementLearn best supervisory practices and strategies to help your direct reports achieve their personal best. This course centers on understanding how to master motivation, goal setting, and communication. CRN: AS-TBD |
The Upward Mobility and Supervisory Skills ToolkitGain the skills needed to advance in your career while improving your leadership abilities. This workshop focuses on essential supervisory skills for upward mobility in your professional life. CRN: AS- 81507 |
Transitioning from Peer to SupervisorDealing with “buddy-to-boss syndrome “is one of the most difficult rites of passage as you enter the supervisory ranks. Setting boundaries and expectations are key factors in making a smooth transition. In this highly participative workshop, you will gain an IRL (In Real Life) toolkit of best practices, tips, and strategies that you can put to work immediately. CRN: AS-81508 |
Women in LeadershipThis course explores leadership challenges and strategies from a female perspective, encouraging personal and professional growth in leadership roles. CRN: AS- 81509 |
Courses Offered by Southern University
The Connecticut State Employee Training Program also offers courses at Southern CT State University. This semester's courses include:
- Minecraft for Corporate Training
- Inclusive Leadership: Supporting and Supervising Neurodivergent Employees
- Spanish Language and Culture for Frontline Workers Level I