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Winter 2026, Vol. 9, Iss. 4

If someone you know could benefit from remote work or e-commerce technical assistance, please forward this newsletter to them.

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Student of the Month: From Comfort Zone to Cybersecurity

We recognize James Rasmussen of Sanpete County as our Certified Remote Work Professional© Student of the Month. He was selected for his strong commitment, timely completion of assignments, and active participation throughout the course.

James enrolled with one goal in mind: to step outside his comfort zone and start a new career path.

"I learned that I really enjoy digital communication and working with new people. Taking on new things has been really fun, and I'm excited to see where it goes," James said. "I really like how the course teaches me to be more productive and how to schedule my tasks clearly."

He is now working toward a career in cybersecurity, ideally in a remote role. The course helped him build confidence communicating clearly and professionally in virtual settings, a skill essential in both tech and remote work.
   
Generative AI Has Dramatically Changed the Job Market

Generative AI tools such as ChatGPT and Gemini have made it easier than ever to apply for jobs. Recent data from the hiring platform Greenhouse shows that the average job posting received more than 250 applications, a dramatic increase compared to just a few years ago.

As applying becomes easier, standing out becomes harder. In a crowded field, clear communication, strong positioning, and tailored resumes matter more than ever. 

When hundreds of applicants compete for the same role, small improvements in clarity and positioning can make a difference. Join our upcoming Resume Workshop on March 3 at noon via Zoom to watch a resume critique in real time and gain in-depth resume writing skills from our experts. 

For ongoing support, Job Club meets every Tuesday at 10 a.m. MST. Participants recieve feedback, practice interview skills, and stay accountable throughout their job search. 

Quick AI Tool: Preparing for a Job Interview

Use AI to research your interviewer and prepare thoughtful questions. Try this prompt:

*Tip: Use the output to refine your thinking, not replace it.

Plan for AI Driven Change by Building Adaptable Skills

Research suggests AI could significantly increase productivity, but employment outcomes will depend on how quickly workers transition into new roles. Supporting workers in at-risk jobs and helping people return to work faster can limit long-term job losses.

*Tip: Focus on strengthening transferable skills, digital literacy, and continuous learning to stay competitive. 
   
   
   
Rural Utah Champion: Representative Carl Albrecht

We appreciate Representative Carl Albrecht (District 70: Sevier, Piute, Beaver, and Iron counties) for his tireless work during the 2026 Legislative Session. Representative Albrecht has supported USU Extension by running an RFA to help keep the E-Commerce Accelerator operating along with advancing legislation that benefits rural Utahns across multiple sectors.

During the session, he supported efforts related to land and watershed restoration, battery disposal and long-term energy planning, clearer nuclear regulatory direction, and HB416 to assist firefighters facing job-related cancers.

Support for programs like the E-Commerce Accelerator allows rural businesses, including Roberts Ranch Hoop Houses, to build and manage their own e-commerce websites and reach customers beyond their local communities. 
   
   

Share Your E-Commerce Story

If the E-Commerce Accelerator has made a difference for your business, we'd love to hear how it helped you grow.

   
   

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 © 2026 Utah State University

Mailing address:

Utah State University Extension - Washington County

339 South 5500 West

Hurricane, UT 84737


Utah State University is an affirmative action/equal opportunity institution and is committed to a learning and working environment free from discrimination. For USU’s non-discrimination notice, see equity.usu.edu/non-discrimination.

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