Veterans and military families across Southern Oregon now have expanded access to free, high-quality technology education through the IBM SkillsBuild program, an online learning platform designed to help participants build practical, job-ready skills in fast-growing fields. The program is open to adults age 18 and older and is tailored to support Veterans, active-duty service members, National Guard and Reserve members, spouses, children, and caregivers of Veterans.
The SkillsBuild program offers more than 1,000 online courses at no cost, covering a wide range of technology and professional development topics. Courses are structured to accommodate both beginners and advanced learners, meaning participants do not need prior technical experience to enroll. This flexibility is particularly valuable for Veterans transitioning into civilian careers or those looking to reskill or upskill in response to a rapidly changing job market.
Training opportunities focus on in-demand fields such as data analytics, cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, cloud computing, and information technology support. These sectors continue to grow nationwide and increasingly offer remote or hybrid employment options, which can be especially beneficial for residents in rural areas of Southern Oregon. In addition to technical subjects, the program also includes career-focused coursework aimed at improving employability and long-term career planning.
IBM SkillsBuild offers two primary learning formats. Guided Learning Experiences are structured, instructor-led courses with set start and end dates. These live sessions provide weekly learning plans, ongoing support, and a collaborative learning environment. Participants who complete guided courses earn industry-recognized digital credentials and professional certificates that can be shared on professional networking platforms and resumes.
For those who need greater flexibility, the program also provides independent learning options available around the clock. These self-paced courses allow participants to learn on their own schedules while still earning verified credentials upon completion. This format is well suited for working adults, caregivers, or Veterans balancing education with other responsibilities.
Several guided courses are scheduled in early 2026, including programs focused on data and artificial intelligence fundamentals, career management skills, and introductory artificial intelligence concepts. Each course runs for a defined training period and awards credentials that demonstrate subject-matter competency to potential employers.
Enrollment begins by creating an account on the IBM SkillsBuild website. Once registered, eligible participants are automatically directed to the section dedicated to Veterans, service members, dependents, and caregivers. Program administration includes limited data sharing with SkillUp, a training delivery partner, to support participant engagement and communication.
For Veterans already using or considering education benefits through the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, SkillsBuild can complement existing opportunities. Participants are encouraged to explore GI Bill benefits, as well as additional education support programs such as the STEM Scholarship and the Yellow Ribbon Program, which may provide further financial or academic assistance.
Veterans and family members seeking more information can access the SkillsBuild virtual assistant or contact the program directly by email. As Southern Oregon communities continue to navigate economic shifts and workforce challenges, free technology training programs like IBM SkillsBuild offer a practical and accessible pathway toward stable, future-focused careers.