Looking to get NJ Cannabis Certified? Classes start soon

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NJ Cannabis Certified, a workforce development program for the cannabis industry, is gearing up to launch its next round of training.

Scheduled to begin April 3, the 15-hour virtual course is geared toward those interested in working in the industry or wanting to learn more about cannabis.

The program – which is presented in partnership with Mercer County Community College, Atlantic Cape Community College, Union College, Passaic County Community College and Raritan Valley Community College – covers topics including: cannabis law and regulations, cultivation basics, manufactured products, testing, and what you need to know to work in a dispensary.

The series also touches on the history of cannabis, the human body’s endocannabinoid system, cannabis taxonomy and terminology, and how to assist medical marijuana program patients with qualifying conditions.

Along with a glimpse into the ever-growing industry, the course offers expert guidance and resume building support to students.

Classes will be held from 6 to 9 p.m. via Zoom on April 3, 10, 17, 24 and May 1 and the cost to register is $500. In order to receive a certificate of completion, students must pass five short quizzes.

The program is open to the public and there is no application process or prerequisites to sign up; however, students must be at least 18 years old to register.

For more information or to enroll, visit NJCannaCert.com.

The course also offers limited spots for veterans to receive tuition waivers. Qualified veterans should reach out to the corresponding community college they are interested in taking the class with, according to NJ Cannabis Certified.

Additionally, through a unique partnership with the New Jersey Cannabis Trade Association (NJCTA) and Mercer County Community College, scholarships are available to those with demonstrated financial need. Eligible applicants can apply here. 

NJCTA President Todd Johnson said, “Providing pathways to employment in New Jersey’s cannabis industry is imperative to adequately support its growth. NJCTA is proud to offer scholarships to individuals with financial need that are taking the proactive step to educate themselves through enrollment in NJ Cannabis Certified’s training courses as they pursue a career in the cannabis industry.”

NJ Cannabis Certified was launched three years ago by Sarah Trent, a cannabis advocate, attorney and founder and chief executive officer of Valley Wellness, a medical dispensary in Raritan, as a way to promote responsible cannabis use and create an educated workforce. Since then, more than 1,000 students have completed the course.

Trent said, “Now, more than ever, having access to and taking part in helping to train qualified individuals for New Jersey’s cannabis workforce is key to the success of both Valley Wellness and the industry at large, which I personally take very seriously.”