Education is a powerful tool for building resilience and expanding career opportunities during periods of change. The resources below offer online learning, professional certifications, and scholarships specifically designed for federal employees, contractors, and their families, particularly those impacted by layoffs or contract terminations. Many programs offer free or discounted access to help individuals pivot, upskill, or prepare for graduate study. 

Don’t overlook your local public library as many offer free access to valuable digital learning platforms. With a library card, you may be able to use services like Udemy, LinkedIn Learning, Coursera, and others at no cost. Libraries often provide career development tools, test prep resources, and even live tutoring or resume review services. Check with your local branch or library website to see what’s available in your area.

Skills Development & Certifications

• Coursera / edX – Online courses for acquiring new skills, ranging from cybersecurity to supply chain management, data analysis, business, and 100s of other areas of study.   
• Project Management Institute – Project Manager Professional (PMP) Certificate: Certification acknowledges candidates who are skilled at managing the people, processes, and business priorities of professional projects.  Note: There are multiple organizations that offer options for completing the PMP certification course requirements and/or that offer discounted fees for taking the PMP test. 
• University of Maryland – Pathways Forward Resource Hub: Resource Hub with tools for career upskilling and growth. Although geared toward MD residents, many resources are available online regardless of location.
• AI and Career Empowerment – free certificate designed for early to mid-career professionals looking to move to the private sector, or for a change in direction.

Scholarships and Discounted Programs for Federal Workers and Contractors

• Georgetown University: Scholarships and career services for recent graduates, undergraduate seniors, and current or recently fired federal employees applying to graduate programs. 
• Kutztown University: Scholarships for displaced federal employees  and non-credit training through Coursera’s Career Academy. 
• Northern Virginia Community College (NOVA): Scholarships for federal workers and contractors and free access to select classes and employment workshops through the NOVAnext program.

Educational Resources for Parents

• Nomad Educational Service – College consulting services with free programs for RIFed and USAID families.
• Hemispheres Academy – At-cost online schooling through a non-profit and accredited program run by EFM educators.