As the Program Manager of Housing Services and Ontario Works for the Cochrane District Social Services Administration Board, Joanne Kennedy is always looking to learn something new.

Connecting for the first time with Contact North, she was surprised at the breadth of the online learning options she had to choose from, eventually signing up for the Micro-Credential Certificate for Managers and Aspiring Leaders from Georgian College.

“With the few issues I had, the staff replied quickly and efficiently,” Joanne says.

“I loved the convenience of independent learning, knowing someone was available in the background if I had questions or issues.”

The certificate course from Georgian gave Joanne the opportunity to work on her self-discipline and commit to a program without feeling obligated or under pressure to achieve excellence. She was happy to study at her own pace, keeping in mind any deadlines along the way.

“Taking the time to better educate myself, I benefit the team and my organization,” Joanne says. “These courses are available at no charge — and who these days isn’t looking for some cost savings?”

Joanne hopes her experience will inspire others to take the leap to online learning.

“Why not open those avenues, pursue greater education and reap the benefits of learning, engaging and projecting positivity in our daily lives and for some great career advancements?”