Middlesex Community College is partnering with UKG to offer a 16-week course to provide hands-on experience and a recognized certification in Human Capital Management (HCM). Delivered on-site by UKG professionals in the Lowell headquarters, four Middlesex students are gaining the technical skills and knowledge they need to jumpstart their careers.
“Over 16 weeks, participants grow both professionally and personally, supporting one another as they embrace the chance to shape their futures,” said Heather Geronemus, UKG’s Senior Director of Social Impact. “Together with MCC, we’re helping students gain practical, in-demand skills that prepare them for meaningful careers in HR, technology and beyond. Through this collaboration, students will receive hands-on training, a recognized certification, and valuable connections with industry professionals – all designed to support their long-term success.”
“MCC’s new partnership with UKG signals an exciting new workforce opportunity for our students,” said Matt Hurwitz, MCC’s Dean of Liberal Arts. “They get on-the-job, hands-on training; academic credit; and a foot in the door with an outstanding, forward-thinking company. It’s a true win-win and an example of how MCC is always innovating around the interplay of learning and career readiness. We couldn’t have asked for a better industry partner than UKG.”
UKG and MCC’s goal for the certification is to help empower students to advance in their careers. The certification aims to build students’ confidence and expand their opportunities in and outside of the classroom. Entitled UKG Ready HCM-TLM Certification, the program is geared toward MCC business, communication, computer science, and Information Technology (IT) students.
MCC business student Felix Rodriguez, of Lowell, is enjoying the challenge and excitement of his experience so far. At UKG, he is applying the theoretical knowledge he learned in the classroom at Middlesex toward organizational matters. In addition to understanding company workflows and effective business processes, he is also developing stronger communication skills working with clients. Rodriguez believes the experience will further his opportunities as he progresses in his career.
“I saw the internship as a rare chance to connect what I’m studying in college with the kind of tools and systems big companies actually use,” Rodriguez said. “I’m drawn to learning things that feel practical and future-oriented, and this program seemed like a perfect bridge between my education and the professional world. I really enjoy working with everyone on the team and picking up new skills every day. It reminds me of when you start something new, and the pieces slowly begin to click. That feeling of growth keeps me motivated.”
Throughout the semester, students will also access networking, mentorship and professional development opportunities at UKG, including joining employee resource groups. While working on individual assignments using simulation resources, MCC students will also work together as part of a cohort, according to Ashli Ree, MCC’s Professor and Program Coordinator of Fashion Merchandising.
“This is a great opportunity for students who are interested in transitioning into a large corporate setting,” Ree said. “Some of the newer employees I met started off as interns, so the company is looking for new talents among students. Other employees I spoke with, with 10 or more years of experience, have shared that there are many opportunities to move up within the company.”
Fully funded through philanthropy, the program offers students financial support, including stipends for internship hours, scholarship dollars for credit hours, laptops for coursework, and meals during in-person sessions.
“Our partnership with MCC is rooted in a shared commitment to developing the next generation of workforce leaders,” Geronemus said. “By combining classroom learning with real-world experience, we’re equipping students with the skills, confidence and connections they need to thrive in their careers. This program reflects our belief in investing in talent and creating meaningful pathways for students to succeed.”