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
NOTE: For all CT State Asnuntuck and Northwestern classes, please submit registration a minimum of two weeks prior to the scheduled start date for each class.
| Business and Workplace Skills |
|---|
AI 101: Intro to AI for Writing and ProductivityUnlock the power of artificial intelligence to revolutionize your daily writing workflow and boost overall workplace productivity! This interactive course provides hands-on experience with modern AI tools, transforming how you draft emails, outline reports, synthesize complex information and manage projects. You'll learn the art and science of prompt engineering, discovering how to ask the right questions and set the right context to generate clear, diplomatic and accurate business communications in seconds. Whether you want to derail writer’s block, streamline administrative tasks, or refine your professional voice, you'll gain practical strategies to integrate AI safely and ethically into your daily routine. The experience pairs live tool experimentation with immediate feedback to ensure you gain real-world efficiency. You'll leave with a virtual toolkit of go-to prompts and techniques to work smarter and save hours each week! CRN: AS-80934 |
All About Emotional IntelligenceExplore core emotional intelligence concepts and practical exercises to enhance your self-awareness, empathy and professional relationships! In today's dynamic workplace, subject matter expertise alone is not enough; mastering emotional intelligence is essential for effective leadership, collaboration and personal career growth. This interactive course guides you through recognizing your emotional triggers, managing reactive responses under pressure, and developing the interpersonal sensitivity needed to navigate complex team dynamics. Through self-assessment tools and actionable exercises, you will learn how to build stronger, trust-based work relationships and communicate with authentic empathy. You'll leave with a practical toolkit of strategies designed to elevate your professional presence, foster collaboration, and drive personal and organizational success! CRN: AS-80926 |
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-80927 |
Artificial Intelligence AI, Parts 1 and 2 (Lunch and Learn Series)Learn how AI can enhance workplace productivity and writing skills. Experiment with AI tools and effective prompt engineering techniques. The following coursework is the first two of a three-part series. The third part will be delivered in Spring 2027. Part 2 Please commit to all 3 parts to ensure all classes will run. Part 3 is slated to run 4/2/2027 – 5/21/2027, $295 |
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-80523 |
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-80505 |
Career Success BuilderBuild the skills, mindset and confidence needed to take ownership of your professional trajectory! This interactive course will help you navigate your growth with clarity and purpose, moving you from feeling stuck or reactive to actively steering your career path. You'll learn how to establish a compelling professional presence, set strategic goals that align with your strengths and cultivate high-visibility habits that get noticed by leadership. Whether you want to elevate your current role, prepare for future advancement, or reinvigorate your daily work experience, you’ll learn how to articulate your value and build a reputation for consistent excellence. The experience pairs practical self-assessment with actionable strategies to ensure you stand out for all the right reasons. You'll leave with a personalized roadmap designed to help you command your career path with confidence! CRN: AS-80931 |
Communication MasterclassElevate your professional impact and master the art of high-stakes communication! In today's complex and fast-paced work environment, clear, concise and emotionally intelligent communication is the single most critical driver of leadership success, performance and workplace collaboration. This comprehensive masterclass brings together essential strategies for assertive interaction, active listening, conflict resolution and strategic influence. You will learn how to navigate difficult workplace conversations, adapt communication styles for diverse audiences and decision-makers and deliver complex messages with clarity, confidence and tact. Through practical scenarios and actionable frameworks, you will build an advanced communication toolkit that strengthens professional relationships, fosters trust and drives measurable business results. You'll leave equipped to lead conversations with poise, resolve tension constructively and command respect in any professional setting! CRN: TBD |
Communication Skills a Must!Ever 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 workshop 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 in-person, hybrid or virtual team. You'll learn to manage emotional responses, develop intuition, create a "default language," and enhance your critical-thinking skills under stress to position yourself as a true professional. The experience pairs interactive exercises with practical frameworks to ensure your message is clear, persuasive and impact-driven. You'll leave with a virtual toolkit of strategies that streamline your daily interactions and elevate your professional presence! CRN: TBD |
Decision-Making and Problem-SolvingTired of tackling the same problems over and over? This course will equip you with practical root cause analysis techniques to identify the real issues behind everyday challenges, whether it’s streamlining a procedure, motivating your team or improving delegation. You’ll learn how to break down complex problems, uncover hidden factors and develop solutions that stick. No matter what your role, these strategies will help you work smarter and make a real impact. Join us and start solving problems with confidence and clarity! CRN: TBD |
Diplomacy Under StressTurn high-tension encounters with difficult people into productive outcomes with strategic diplomacy and poise! In today’s fast-moving, unpredictable work environment, rapid change and uncertainty can send stress levels soaring. Whether you are dealing with challenging colleagues, demanding clients, or tricky situational roadblocks, getting defensive or shutting down is not the answer. This interactive workshop upgrades your interpersonal playbook with modern tactical communication, emotional regulation tools, and diplomatic negotiation techniques. Discover how to stay grounded under pressure, decode the underlying stress triggers driving difficult behavior, and de-escalate conflict before it derails your day. You’ll leave energized, confident, and armed with a powerful toolkit to navigate any situation with composure and tact! CRN: TBD
Dates: December 3, 10 and 17, 2026
Days: Thursday
Time: 9 a.m.-4 p.m,
Modality/Location: Online (Live Remote)
Offered by: CT State Northwestern
Instructor: Margaret DeMarino
Contact Hours/CEUs: 18 hours, 1.8 CEUs
Cost: $480 |
Effective Workplace WritingThis course examines the fundamentals of clear business writing and its role in a state agency. Topics include grammar, sentence structure, the 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 related assignments and minimal additional work outside of the class hours. Engaging, helpful, fun and in person! Attendance at both sessions is required for a completion certificate. CRN: NV-80550 |
Effective Workplace Writing AdvancedStrong writing is one of the most reliable ways to demonstrate professionalism, judgment and clarity of thought. This advanced workshop is designed for employees who already write regularly and want to take their skills to a higher level. Over two days, participants will work with more complex writing situations, refining tone, sharpening clarity, strengthening structure and learning how to craft messages that land with impact. The course blends practical strategies, real-world examples and hands-on practice to help writers produce polished, confident documents that support better decisions and smoother communication across the organization. Effective Business Writing is preferred prior to attending this session but is not required. Attendance at both sessions is required to receive a completion certificate. Learning Objectives:
CRN: NV-80806 |
Effective Grant Writing WorkshopThis course is designed to assist those looking to apply for foundational, state and federal grants. Nonprofit and government grant-writing techniques are reviewed. The course covers effective techniques for grant writing and navigating the online systems required to find, research and successfully apply for nonprofit, state and federal grant funding. By the end of the session, participants will be able to:
CRN: 80595 |
Introduction to Grant WritingLearn the fundamentals of grant writing and proposal development, including all sections of the Connecticut Common Grant Application, research strategies, funder relationships, budgeting, grant reporting and tools for finding funding opportunities and grant writing careers. CRN: MA-80504 |
Introduction to Human Service SkillsDesigned for individuals new to human services or seeking entry-level direct service roles, this course covers case management, client-service relationships, informed consent, confidentiality, cultural competence, professional boundaries, communication skills and the ecological systems model through lectures, discussions and Q&A. CRN: MA-80521 |
Level Up Your Writing: Tips, Tricks and Tone TacticsLearn stacks of hacks for all types of business writing! This interactive course will help you completely change your comfort level when writing emails, reports and specialized types of writing, such as white papers, press releases and more. You'll learn how to optimize your writing workflow by derailing writer's block and putting yourself on the fast track to producing clear and diplomatic emails and other documents. Whether you're corresponding with colleagues, clients, or leadership, you'll learn how to craft messages that get read, achieve action and maintain positive relationships. The experience pairs hands-on time to advance your actual projects with personalized, individual critique to ensure your writing hits the mark every time. You'll leave with a virtual toolkit of tips that will help you hit "send" with confidence! CRN: TBD |
Managing Up: Strategic Partnerships and Workplace RelationshipsPosition yourself as an indispensable partner by mastering the art of managing up! In today's dynamic work environments, building a strong, collaborative relationship with your manager is key to driving team results and accelerating your career. This interactive workshop equips you with modern communication strategies and practical work habits to align with your boss's priorities, anticipate organizational needs and present information with maximum clarity and impact. You will explore strategies to navigate workplace dynamics, bridge communication gaps and resolve common friction points—from mismatched priorities to shifting expectations. Leave with actionable techniques to build mutual trust, enhance workplace efficiency and turn your reporting relationship into a powerful strategic partnership! CRN: TBD |
The New Year Reset: Recharge Your Professional LifeStart the new year with a strategic reset that strengthens workplace resilience, optimizes mental well-being and drives sustained professional performance! In today's fast-paced work environment, maintaining high productivity requires intentional strategies to manage cognitive load, recharge focus and prevent burnout. Designed for an impactful January launch, this practical, business-focused workshop equips professionals with evidence-based mental health, self-care and mindfulness practices tailored directly for the workplace. Participants will explore actionable techniques for stress management, energy regulation and growth-oriented mindsets that enhance daily decision-making, job performance and team engagement. By bridging individual well-being with organizational accountability, you will build a personalized toolkit to navigate workplace demands, improve focus and cultivate a healthier, more productive approach to career success in the year ahead! CRN: TBD |
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 unwanted behavior, thinking patterns and emotions. This interactive workshop teaches the ten fundamentals of neuroplasticity to help rewire your brain for success. Through actionable exercises and practical strategies, you will discover how to break free from mental ruts, enhance focus and build sustainable habits that drive long-term achievements. You'll leave with a personalized action plan to systematically optimize your mind for superior performance in any setting! CRN: AS-80924 |
OSHA 10 CertificationThis 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. CRN: GW-80346 |
Productivity Under PressureYou're being asked to do more with fewer resources. You might be wondering how you can stay on top of things, maintain control and keep a positive attitude. Time out! This course will dedicate its focus on helping you manage under duress through appropriate attitude, effective mindfulness habits, best time management practices and more. You will gain a deeper understanding about how you react to pressure and anxiety—and the strain they can put on your performance. You will learn strategies that will help develop new habits and work practices to not only help you cope—but thrive—when the heat gets turned on! You will learn how to manage ANTs (automatic negative thoughts) that flourish during high-pressure situations and replace them with APTs (automatic positive thoughts). You will also learn how to match responses appropriate to high-pressure situations. You'll leave the workshop refreshed and renewed with strategies for depressurizing work situations! CRN: AS-80925 |
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. You will discover how to translate complex technical concepts into accessible, user-friendly documentation tailored to diverse audience needs. Through practical exercises, you'll master structured document design, precise vocabulary, and logical information architecture to ensure your writing reduces ambiguity and drives actionable outcomes. Whether you are creating standard operating procedures, user guides, or technical status reports, you will gain essential strategies for organizing and presenting data with maximum impact. You'll leave with a practical toolkit to produce authoritative, high-quality technical documents that elevate your organization's clarity and efficiency! CRN: AS-80933 |
Time Management Tips, Tricks and Take-AwaysIt seems like we are all doing more these days. New technologies, new work environments, new challenges! It may seem like your to-do list can circle the globe and your schedule can make your head spin. Investing your time in these three workshops will help you increase your productivity, manage your "time stress" and enjoy your day. Think of this tip-filled program as a virtual work makeover that will help you do more with less stress! You will also learn how to better manage time through the use of AI. CRN: TBD |
Computer Skills and Technology
NOTE: For all CT State Asnuntuck and Northwestern classes, please submit registration a minimum of two weeks prior to the scheduled start date for each class.
| 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-80513 |
Basic Computer SkillsDesigned for employees who want to build confidence using a computer in the workplace. Topics include basic computer navigation, file and folder management, internet and email fundamentals, Microsoft Office basics and common workplace computer functions. CRN: NW-80915 |
Excel BeginnerThis beginner-friendly course covers fundamental Excel skills, including data entry, formulas, formatting and basic charts. CRN: NW-80906 CRN: MA-80509 CRN: NW-80907 CRN: TBD CRN: TBD |
Excel IntermediateLearn advanced Excel functions such as pivot tables, conditional formatting and data analysis tools. Ideal for those with basic Excel experience. CRN: NW-80908 CRN: MA-80512 CRN: NW-80914 CRN: TBD CRN: TBD |
Excel AdvancedThis advanced Excel course focuses on macros, automation, advanced formulas and data visualization techniques to enhance productivity. CRN: NW-80913 CRN: MA-80859 CRN: TBD |
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-80520 |
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: TBD |
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-80861 |
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-80884 |
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-80860 |
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 and Functions, Pivot Tables and Dashboard courses or permission of the coordinator or instructor. CRN: MA-80885 |
MS AccessThis course introduces Microsoft Access, covering database design, table relationships, queries, forms and report generation. CRN: AS-80939 |
PowerPoint Level 1Learn to create visually engaging PowerPoint presentations using slide layouts, animations and multimedia integration. CRN: AS-80938 |
PowerPoint Level 2Expanding on PowerPoint Level 1, this course covers advanced design techniques, interactive elements and collaboration tools. CRN: AS-80937 |
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-80929 CRN: TBD |
Word Level 2
CRN: AS-80940 CRN: TBD |
Leadership, Management and Supervision
NOTE: For all CT State Asnuntuck and Northwestern classes, please submit registration a minimum of two weeks prior to the scheduled start date for each class.
| Leadership, Management and Supervision |
|---|
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-80523 |
Leadership and Management MasteryIn this dynamic and highly participative workshop, we will explore effective leadership and management practices. We will take a holistic look at your work environment and develop a game plan filled with practical pointers and action items that you can bring to work and implement immediately. Each participant will take an online test to determine their management style. Our first exercise will be to group participants who share similar management styles (e.g., democratic, entrepreneurial, bureaucratic) to gain insights not only into how to implement best practices that reflect your style, but also into how to “borrow” effective elements from other management styles. We will also explore personality/social style—your own and that of key direct reports—as it pertains to communication, motivation, discipline and persuasion. CRN: AS-80922 |
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. This dynamic workshop provides practical tools to help you navigate organizational challenges, inspire high-performing teams and drive meaningful results. Through self-assessments and interactive exercises, you will refine your core leadership philosophy and develop strategies to lead with integrity, clarity and adaptability. Whether you are leading a team or preparing for future executive responsibilities, you will leave with an actionable roadmap to elevate your impact and guide your organization through evolving landscapes with confidence! CRN: AS-80921 |
Managing The Next Generation of WorkerMaking the change from peer to supervisor can be challenging. Learn how to overcome the fear of losing friendships and the temptation of performing old work responsibilities. Techniques for dealing with change, avoiding favoritism, building trust, credibility and clear boundaries and maintaining confidentiality will be covered. Key topics include:
CRN: NV-80549 |
Planning And Changing Management FundamentalsAre you new to planning and managing change, or has it been a while since you addressed either? Planning and Change Management Fundamentals will help. Shape your own approaches to coordination, SWOT analysis, setting goals, tracking objectives, achieving outcomes and conducting evaluation. Practice with effective models to develop the change vision, build coalitions, communicate the change, address resistance, gain commitment, build capacity, encourage innovation and enhance sustainability. Use practical templates to tailor and measure sections of your new plan and change strategy. CRN: NV-80629 |
Positive Assertiveness for Women in Leadership RolesWomen face sociological barriers to assertiveness in leadership. Building confidence, honing communication techniques and understanding one’s own assertiveness levels are essential understandings to become effective in leadership. This course will introduce women to the skills needed to continue to expand their communication and leadership techniques. Upon completion of this course, participants will be able to:
CRN: NV-80630 |
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 their friends than working. Learn 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. Through interactive discussions and practical scenario analyses, you will discover how to establish clear performance expectations, address workplace distractions and foster a collaborative environment. Whether you are a new supervisor or looking to refresh your management approach, you will gain actionable tools to inspire accountability, boost morale and lead a high-performing team. You'll leave with a personalized supervisory strategy designed to maximize workplace productivity and mutual respect! CRN: TBD |
The Supervisory Transition Toolkit: Navigating from Peer to BossIdeal for those seeking promotion and new or recent supervisors, this workshop will help you gain the critical skills needed to advance in your career while elevating your leadership capabilities! Dealing with "buddy-to-boss syndrome" is one of the most challenging rites of passage as you step into the supervisory ranks. This highly participative workshop focuses on essential supervisory competencies designed for seamless upward mobility in your professional life. You will learn to navigate shifting workplace dynamics, establish clear professional boundaries and set accountability expectations without damaging key relationships — whether you are just being promoted or already working in your new position. Through practical scenarios and actionable frameworks, you will build an IRL (In Real Life) toolkit of best practices, tips, and strategies that you can put to work immediately. You'll leave with the confidence and authority required to step into management, gain respect from your former peers, and lead your team toward consistent success! CRN: AS-80923 |
Transitioning From Peer to SupervisorMaking the change from peer to supervisor can be challenging. Learn how to overcome the fear of losing friendships and the temptation of performing old work responsibilities. Techniques for dealing with change, avoiding favoritism, building trust, credibility and clear boundaries, and maintaining confidentiality will be covered. Key topics include:
CRN: NV-80549 |
Women Bring Their Own Leadership to the WorkplaceThis two-part session is designed to show women their current leadership skills and to improve those they see as needing the most attention. 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 difficult people. At the end of this two-part session, participants will be able to:
Participants are strongly encouraged to attend both days. PART 1 PART 2 |
Courses Offered by Southern University
The Connecticut State Employee Training Program also offers courses at Southern CT State University. This semester's courses include:
- Leadership, Supervision and Team Effectiveness
- Artificial Intelligence and Digital Skills
- Workplace Well-Being, Safety and Inclusion
- Communication, Influence and Personal Effectiveness