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Winter 2026, Vol. 9, Iss. 1 | |
If someone you know could benefit from workforce development, online business growth, please forward this newsletter to them Subscribe Here | |
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Introducing CREDET: A New Chapter for Rural Utah | |
Utah's rural communities have a long history of innovation and adaptation. The legacy continues with the launch of the Center for Rural Economic Development and Emerging Technologies (CREDET) through Utah State University Extension. | |
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CREDET brings together the Rural Online Initiative (ROI) and the E-Commerce Accelerator (ECA) under one center to support rural workforce development, online business growth, and economic resilience statewide, advancing rural prosperity through training and technology. While the name is new, the work and programs remain the same, now aligned to better serve rural Utah.
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See how CREDET is advancing rural prosperity through training and technology at credet.usu.edu→ | |
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Join us January 15 at What's Up Down South | |
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We invite you to join us tomorrow at What's Up Down South as we officially launch the Center for Rural Economic Development and Emerging Technologies (CREDET).
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Meet the CREDET team in person, bringing together the Rural Online Initiative and E-Commerce Accelerator, and connect with community members and partners from across the region.
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We’re excited to welcome Amber Graden, an AI leader and technology strategist, as our next speaker in the Rural Online Initiative Professional Development Series.
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This virtual session will be held January 21 at noon.
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In this session, Amber will share how artificial intelligence is reshaping careers, changing how work gets done, and creating new opportunities for job seekers. She will discuss why remote work is different, how to build transferable skills, and practical ways to use AI in a job search. The session will also explore freelance and side-work options and when it may be helpful to work with a career coach.
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Amber brings nearly 15 years of experience in tech across finance, marketing, and AI-focused roles. Her career path reflects how skills can evolve over time and how digital, remote-friendly work can expand opportunity.
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More Ways to Connect With Us This Month | |
There are several opportunities to connect with CREDET this month, both in person and online. Look for in-person information meetings in Hildale, Emery County, and Piute County, where our team will share how remote work training can support career growth and local opportunity.
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We also invite you to join our virtual information meeting on January 28 at 10 a.m. This session is designed for anyone curious about remote work and interested in learning how the Certified Remote Work Professional© course can help them prepare for their next career step.
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Bring your questions, and learn how to begin your remote work journey with support from Utah State University Extension.
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In addition, our team will be at the Utah State Capitol on January 27 for USU Extension Day on the Hill, connecting with partners and legislators to share how ROI and ECA supports Utah’s rural workforce.
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Job Club meets virtually each week to help job seekers strengthen their job search skills, practice interview techniques, refine their resumes, and receive personalized guidance in a supportive peer environment. Each session includes a short lesson, an opportunity to share progress, and one-on-one expert support. | |
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Our Job Seeker of the Month spotlights Certified Remote Work Professional© course graduates who are actively making meaningful progress in their job search. | |
This month’s Job Seeker is Mary Krogman of Iron County, a Certified Remote Work Professional© graduate and Job Club participant. After several years as a care provider, Mary is preparing to return to the workforce and pursue new professional opportunities. | |
What Job Club Helped Me With:
"Job Club has been an incredible support system for me. The specialists that lead the program have helped strengthen my resume, prepared me for interviews and helped me build the confidence to take on challenges I never thought I could handle. They have encouraged me, believed in me, and their guidance has truly made a difference in my job search journey." | |
Mary brings strong customer service skills and a commitment to employer satisfaction. She is seeking a full-time remote, hybrid, or on-site position where she can apply her skills a support a company's goals. | |
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Have a success story or testimonial to share?
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We’d love to hear how we've made a difference in your journey.
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Know a friend or colleague who would like to receive monthly updates on Utah State University's CREDET? Please share this email with them. | |
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The Rural Online Initiative and E-Commerce Accelerator are programs of the Center for Rural Economic Development and Emerging Technologies (CREDET) Utah State University Extension
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Together with our students, partners, and community supporters, we're building opportunities across rural Utah. Thank you for being a part of it. Our team of program specialists, coordinators, and researchers work together to strengthen Utah's rural workforce through remote work and digital economy education. | |
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© 2026 Utah State University | |
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