IBM SkillsBuild Certificate Program

Upskill and reskill with no-cost tech certificates.

Next Orientation: June 25 | 6-7 PM

TAG-Ed, in partnership with IBM SkillsBuild, is opening the door to no-cost certificate programs designed for adults (18 and older) to gain career-ready tech skills.

 

This cohort-based experience gives you guided access to industry-recognized IBM SkillsBuild certificates in high-demand fields like artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, data analytics, information security, and more.

You’ll build practical tech skills with a supportive peer cohort, all without the barrier of tuition.

Your next career move starts here!

Learner's Journey

Types of Credentials

Industry-Recognized Certification

Industry-Recognized Certification

Validation of knowledge, skills, and abilities aquired through the aggregation of multiple structured learning experiences. The highest and most challenging IBM credentials to earn.

Application Credential

Application Credential

Represents proficiency and experience in applying a skill in a real-life environment; deep, lengthy, and advanced level of competencies in a specialized subject.

Comprehension Credential

Comprehension Credential

Validation of knowledge and skill achievement; some basic knowledge and experience.

Awareness Credential

Awareness Credential

Validation of knowledge achievement; requires little to no prior knowledge and experience.

TAG-Ed Learning Plan Tracks

  • AI Fluency Pathway (67 Hours)
  • Business Analyst (55 Hours)
  • Cybersecurity (60 Hours)
  • Data Analytics (60 Hours)
  • Information Security Specialist (30 Hours)
  • IT Support Technician (70 Hours)
  • Software Engineering for Web Developers (85 Hours)
  • User Experience Designer (58 Hours)

  • AI Literacy (4 Hours)
  • Artificial Intelligence Fundamentals (10 Hours)
  • Generative AI In Action (5 Hours)
  • AI for Sustainability (11 Hours)
  • Cloud Computing Fundamentals (10 Hours)
  • Cybersecurity Fundamentals (6 Hours)
  • Data Fundamentals (7 Hours)
  • Data Analytics for Sustainability (17 Hours)
  • Fundamentals of Sustainability and Technology (10 Hours)
  • Information Technology Fundamentals (11 Hours)
  • Web Development Fundamentals (12 Hours)

  • Creating an Elevator Pitch Using Geverative AI (15 Minutes)
  • Crafting Your Professional Image Online (20 Minutes)
  • Develop Your Professional Network and Brand (3 Hours)
  • Exploring Artificial Intelligence (90 Minutes)
  • And more!

Who should enroll?

  • High school students (18+) ready to get a head start
  • College students looking to build practical, real-world skills
  • Educators aiming to broaden their knowledge and impact
  • Professionals upskilling, reskilling, or exploring new career paths
  • Employers seeking to strengthen their workforce by providing employees with access to skills, development opportunities, and credentials that support career growth and organizational success.
  • Veterans preparing for the next phase of their careers
  • Lifelong learners committed to expanding their knowledge and personal growth

Build in-demand skills and unlock new career opportunities.

For Employers

In addition to supporting learners, this initiative also benefits employers by helping strengthen the regional talent pipeline with job-ready candidates who have validated, industry-aligned skills. Employers gain access to individuals trained in in-demand technologies, making it easier to connect with emerging talent, support upskilling initiatives, and align workforce needs with current industry standards.

Employee Upskilling and Reskilling Certifications

AI Fluency Pathway Certification

AI Fluency Pathway Certification

Business Analyst Certification

Business Analyst Certification

Cybersecurity Certification

Cybersecurity Certification

Data Analytics Certification

Data Analytics Certification

Information Security Specialist Certification

Information Security Specialist Certification

IT Support Technician Certification

IT Support Technician Certification

Software Engineering for Web Developers Certification

Software Engineering for Web Developers Certification

User Experience Designer Certification

User Experience Designer Certification

For Educators

IBM SkillsBuild Classroom Integration

The IBM SkillsBuild Classroom Integration Pilot, led by the TAG Education Collaborative (TAG-Ed), is designed to support faculty in embedding industry-aligned, cohort-based/self-paced learning into existing coursework.

Faculty Pilot Guide

This guide serves as a practical resource for faculty participating in the pilot and outlines how IBM SkillsBuild aligns with academic instruction, the roles and expectations for faculty, students, and TAG-Ed, recommended approaches for grading, engagement, and progress tracking, as well as the available support structures throughout the pilot.

Flexible Pilot Model

The pilot model is intentionally flexible, allowing faculty to integrate IBM SkillsBuild content in ways that complement course objectives while providing students with access to real-world, employer-informed skills. TAG-Ed partners closely with faculty throughout implementation by providing onboarding support, cohort management, progress reporting, and ongoing technical assistance.

Supporting Educators, Strengthening Student Outcomes

Our goal is to ensure a smooth experience for instructors while enhancing student learning and workforce readiness.

Register for the upcoming cohort in June 2026!

 

FAQ's

Through this partnership, TAG-Ed helps connect learners, educators, job seekers, and professionals with access to IBM SkillsBuild training opportunities, career development support, and workforce readiness resources.

Programs are generally open to:

  • Students
  • Career changers
  • Job seekers
  • Educators
  • Emerging tech professionals
  • Employees looking to upskill
  • Organizational leaders

Yes, through the IBM SkillsBuild program, participants can earn IBM digital credentials and certificates that demonstrate proficiency in in-demand skills across areas such as artificial intelligence (AI), cybersecurity, data analytics, UX Design and more.

These credentials are issued by IBM and can be shared on résumés, LinkedIn profiles, and digital portfolios to showcase skills and support career advancement.

IBM Skillsbuild is offered at no cost to participants. Eligible learners can access training, resources, and career development opportunities free of charge.

Yes. TAG-Ed will provide:

  • Cohort support through office hours
  • Career readiness guidance
  • Networking opportunities
  • Employer engagement
  • Resume and interview workshops
  • Learning encouragement and accountability

Participants can register through the TAG-Ed enrollment link or cohort registration form and will receive onboarding instructions afterward.

Participants should contact the TAG-Ed team first for cohort-related support. IBM SkillsBuild also offers technical support resources through its platform.