For the past few years, Walmart Academies have focused on training associates to succeed in their jobs and upskill for the future. The company always has known its academies could make a positive impact beyond its walls and help the communities it serves, said Andy Trainor, VP of learning.
“With that in mind, today we’re announcing Community Academy, a free program that leverages our network of 200-plus Walmart Academies in stores across the country to offer educational opportunities to anyone in the community – associate or not,” he said.
The goal is to help people invest in themselves, increase upward mobility and create fundamentally stronger communities as a result.
Community Academy virtual courses are now available nationwide at no cost, and registration is open to all. Class topics include everything from resume building and interviewing skills to budget and finance, standardized test preparation and navigating college admissions. The courses are grouped into one of five overall themes – Community, Personal Finance, Home, Career Progression and Technology. Offerings will be expanded throughout the year.
“In developing our community curriculum, we leveraged Walmart’s own subject matter experts and worked with industry leaders to ensure our content is best-in-class. All community courses will be taught by our Walmart Academy facilitators, true learning professionals who have guided our store associates through more than two million Academy training sessions on topics ranging from store processes to leadership and soft skills,” Trainor said.
“At Walmart, we believe in opportunity – to grow your skillset, build a career and reach for something more. Community Academy represents our belief in that opportunity, and we’re proud to begin serving our communities in this new way.”
