Metropolitan Community College (MCC) has made important progress teaching pupils for work in the swiftly growing cannabis trade. Following the approval of recreational marijuana use in Missouri, this business continues to flourish, as noted by approximately $2.8 billion in total sales since 2020 according to state records. This upswing mirrors the creation of jobs, with nearly 4,000 fresh roles added just in the previous year, including to the current employee force of over 19,500 in this sector.

Expanding Opportunities with Cannabis Certificate Programs

In the year 2023, MCC initiated a number of certificate courses centered around cannabis. The objective: to arm students with the knowledge and tools required to excel in different sectors within the cannabis industry. Created hand in hand with Green Flower—a prominent educator in marijuana—these learning programs constitute a part of MCC’s branch dedicated to Workforce and Economic Advancement. The offered courses are as follows:

• Cannabis Cultivation Specialist Certificate
• Cannabis Retail Specialist Certificate
• Cannabis Extraction & Product Development Specialist Certificate

Around one hundred students wrapped up these courses in the past year. The training did more than just boost their—it gave them a leg up in securing work. Max Simon, the man at the helm of Green Flower, asserts that such certifications frequently open doors to elevated roles and speedier promotions in the sector.

“The cannabis industry is very competitive,” Simon explained. “It’s not a requirement to have this certification, but our students find it immensely beneficial.”

Unique Educational Offerings

Currently, MCC is the only institution in the Kansas City metropolitan area providing such specialized cannabis education. “These programs were built to be industry standards,” Simon emphasized. “They are designed to provide essential knowledge and understanding for entering the cannabis industry.”

• James Colbert, a 62-year-old Marine veteran, is one of the many success stories from these courses. He completed two online courses and is optimistic about securing a position in a local dispensary despite health challenges.
• “Age was actually an advantage,” Colbert said. “As the old cliché goes, ‘If I can do it, anybody can do it.’”

Course Details and Enrollment

Each of the three certificate programs is structured to be completed online over nine weeks, costing $750 per course. The flexibility of these programs allows students to enroll and begin at any time, accommodating various schedules and learning paces. 

• Cannabis Cultivation Specialist Certificate: This course offers a deep dive into best practices for cannabis cultivation, whether in indoor or outdoor operations. It prepares students for roles in grow operations or even to start their own cultivation businesses.
• Cannabis Retail Specialist Certificate: Focused on the cannabis supply chain and retail dynamics, this program equips students with the skills needed to succeed in the fast-paced retail environment, including working in dispensaries or launching their own retail operations.
• Cannabis Extraction & Product Development Specialist Certificate: This course covers the development and manufacturing of cannabis products such as edibles, tinctures, and topicals. It provides a thorough understanding of the extraction processes and supply chain, essential for a successful career in product development.

 The Growing Need for Trained Professionals

The collaboration with Green Flower positions MCC at the forefront of cannabis education, addressing the increasing demand for skilled professionals in the industry. Richard Wallace, MCC’s Director of Continuing Education, noted the strategic timing of these programs. 

“We saw a need to get ahead of the curve,” Wallace stated. “With Missouri’s legalization of recreational marijuana, we anticipated a surge in job opportunities.”

St. Louis Community College (STLCC) has also recognized this trend, offering three in-person cannabis courses for credit. These include an introductory lecture, a cultivation course with a lab component, and a course on extraction techniques. Jerry Pence, STLCC’s horticulture program coordinator, highlighted the diversity of students’ backgrounds, from those already in the industry seeking skill enhancement to novices eager to enter the field.

“Students want practical knowledge that helps them get employed,” Pence explained. “Our courses fill up quickly, demonstrating the strong interest and need for cannabis education.

Economic Impact and Future Prospects

Recreational marijuana’s sanction in Missouri dramatically surged the sales. In the brief span from February to June, recreational sales hit a high note of $444 million, aided further by medical sales, which tossed in another $185.3 million. This overtly indicates the economic powerhouse cannabis is turning out to be and the necessity to equip a competent workforce to fulfill its demands.

Conclusion

MCC sets a new norm with their groundbreaking marijuana programs, paving the way for comprehensive education within the trade. As this industry broadens, there’s an escalating need for adept professionals. The given programs are fundamental to those eager to launch a career in this ever-growing trade.

“Joining the cannabis industry means being part of a movement that’s changing lives, said Simon. “There’s a place for everyone, from entry-level to executive roles, in this growing industry.”

Through these comprehensive certificate programs, MCC is empowering the next generation of cannabis professionals, equipping them with the tools and knowledge to succeed and thrive in a market full of potential and promise.