HFC launches Customer Service Professional program, achievable in one semester
HFC has launched a Customer Service Professional Certificate Achievement program starting this Fall. The program can be completed in one full-time semester.
This certificate is a career pathway program HFC has developed in consultation with a collaborative of businesses that include Ford Motor Co., Henry Ford Health System, Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan, DTE Energy, Rock Central, Choctaw-Kaul, and others. The program's curriculum is designed to align with the core competencies these businesses need.
Opportunities for jobs and further education
Graduates of this program can get hired or advance within the customer service field.
As a stackable credential, the certificate can lead to an associate degree in Business at HFC. And, HFC has multiple agreements with many four-year colleges and universities in Michigan for students wanting to complete a bachelor’s degree in Business Administration.
“There is a growing need for talented people in the customer service field. If you are an active listener, problem solver, and great communicator who likes working with the public, I would highly recommend looking into the Customer Service Professional Certificate of Achievement program at the College. Customer Service is a multi-faceted career pathway that provides growth opportunities in many industries,” said HFC business instructor Dr. Diane Smith.
Some of the career opportunities in the customer service field include:
- Account Representative
- Call Center Representative
- Client Services Representative
- Customer Care Representative
- Customer Service Agent
- Customer Service Representative
- Customer Service Specialist
Competitive wages
The State of Michigan Labor Market Information lists customer service representatives’ starting average wages range from $13-$21 per hour. And HFC is part of a collaborative of Metro Detroit employers that are looking to hire graduates who have earned the Customer Service Professional Certificate of Achievement, with starting wages of $16-$21 per hour.
Here are some facts about the customer service profession:
- Customer Service is projected as the 6th largest occupation in Michigan until 2028.
- Real-time statistics project more than 12,000 opportunities in next 18 months in Southeast Michigan.
- Demand data demonstrates a high volume of continuing hiring needs in Southeast Michigan over time.
“We’re excited to work with Henry Ford College and businesses across Metro Detroit on this important initiative,” said Deborah Majeski, Manager, Workforce Development at DTE Energy. “There’s a great need for qualified Customer Service Representatives in many industries, and this program helps prepare people for a successful career in this field.”
Visit the Customer Service Program website