Bossier Parish Community College will host Skills Surge on Saturday, May 23, offering a fast-paced, hands-on learning experience designed to help high school students, recent graduates, and community members build practical skills in a single day.
The event provides an opportunity to learn new skills, earn industry-recognized credentials, and explore potential career pathways—all in one focused experience. Skills Surge features multiple training options tailored to different interests and career goals.
Grow with Google: AI Essentials is a FREE online, self-paced course designed for individuals who are new to artificial intelligence. Participants learn the fundamentals of generative AI and gain practical experience using AI tools to develop ideas, create content, and streamline daily tasks. The course is free and typically takes about four hours to complete. Learners earn an industry-recognized credential in AI literacy, which can be valuable for future employment or academic applications. Those who need access to a campus computer must apply and enroll at least 24 hours before Skills Surge to activate their BPCC login.
The NSC Forklift Operator Certification course, offered in person on the Bossier campus, runs from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. and costs $100. Developed by the National Safety Council, the course provides comprehensive training in OSHA safety standards, equipment inspection, load handling, hazard awareness, and hands-on evaluation using industrial lift equipment. Participants must be at least 18 years old and wear closed-toe shoes. Successful completers earn a nationally recognized credential valued in logistics, warehousing, and manufacturing.
The Intro to Tools and OSHA Safety Standards course, offered in person at the Bossier Campus, runs from 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. and costs $100. This course introduces participants to essential workplace tools and OSHA safety standards, covering hazard awareness, proper equipment use, and safe work practices to reduce risk on the job.
Heartsaver CPR and AED Training will be offered on the Bossier Campus from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m. at a cost of $65. This course is designed for individuals without medical backgrounds who want to learn essential CPR and AED skills. Participants receive instruction and hands-on practice in chest compressions, rescue breaths, AED operation, choking relief, basic first aid, and recognition of heart attack and stroke symptoms. Successful participants earn the Heartsaver CPR/AED certification.
Skills Surge provides participants the opportunity to build real-world skills, explore career opportunities, and earn credentials that strengthen résumés and college applications. Both hands-on and online learning options are available.
To register, individuals must complete the BPCC Workforce Solutions non-credit application. For more information and assistance, contact Workforce Solutions at workforcesolutions@bpcc.edu or call 318-678-6015.