Utah State University's CREDET program has generated $1.814 million in new revenue for businesses through its E-Commerce Accelerator and facilitated 776 job placements via its remote work certification. The initiative, which focuses on strengthening rural Utah by expanding access to emerging technologies, has seen 2,191 total in-state enrollees participate in its workforce development programs.
Workforce Development Milestones
Workforce Development Milestones
Through the Certified Remote Work Professional (CRWP) program, Utah State University has achieved significant workforce development milestones. According to data from the university, 3,006 course graduates have completed the program to date. The initiative maintains an average class size of 23 students for its 2026 sessions.
Data from the university shows that 776 job placements have been achieved through the program. Furthermore, 80.7% of individuals who completed the certification in 2026 reported that they seek remote work as a result of the training. The program has delivered 54 courses to help students transition from training to successful remote careers.
E-Commerce Accelerator Impact
E-Commerce Accelerator Impact
The E-Commerce Accelerator (ECA) has served as a primary driver for business development in rural areas. According to Utah State University, the program has resulted in 56 completed websites for participating businesses. These digital transformations have led to a 67.8% increase in sales for the companies involved.
In addition to completed projects, the ECA has generated $1.814 million in new revenue for businesses. The program's pipeline remains active, with 8 websites currently in progress and 110 projects currently in the queue. The university also provides 12 website consults to assist businesses in growing their sales through e-commerce platforms.
Success Stories and Community Impact
Success Stories and Community Impact
Beyond the statistics, the CREDET initiative has highlighted individual success stories, such as Matt Pettus and the owners of SmokeDay BBQ. According to the university, SmokeDay BBQ's Cameron and Liz used the E-Commerce Accelerator to build a website designed for growth. By utilizing online preorders, catering tools, and hands-on training, the business owners gained the necessary skills to manage their site as their barbecue business expands.
The program aims to empower people and elevate businesses by driving sustainable growth through technological access. As technologies evolve, the university stated that CREDET will continue to work toward strengthening rural Utah with the skills and support required to thrive in a connected economy.
Educational Outreach and Resources
Educational Outreach and Resources
The university provides various resources to keep the community informed, including the Remote Work Radio podcast. In one episode, host Marta Nielsen interviewed Jeanna Barrett, the founder and Chief Remote Officer for First Page Strategy, regarding growth marketing and exponential brand growth. The university also maintains a newsletter and provides success stories to highlight how training leads to career and business success.
