HCC serves students as path in and out of the ‘Gig Economy’
As the gig economy continues to grow, Houston Community College is preparing students for gig work while also providing pathways to permanent employment.
The gig economy allows workers to exchange their labor for pay via online platforms. Such workers are generally selfemployed, freelancers or contractors engaged in short-term and project-based work. Examples include people providing meal delivery and ridesharing, childcare, hairstyling, writing and editing, graphic design, baking, computer repair, insurance services and more.
The benefits of such work include the freedom to determine individual work schedules, the ability to focus on a passion and the opportunity to be one’s own boss. However, most gig jobs don’t include benefits for healthcare or retirement.
Nonetheless, in the new economy many find the work can provide their living while others do such work as a so-called “side hustle.” With HCC training to enhance existing skills, excelling in the gig arena is possible.
But if gig work isn’t your ultimate calling, searching for a way out to find permanent, higher-wage jobs is also possible by studying at HCC. The college serves as a path to high-demand career fields as well as undergraduate and higher degrees. Programs like commercial truck driving, firefighting, auto and diesel engine repair and cybersecurity are only a few of the solid career fields available to students seeking to transition out of gig work.
HCC students Sabrina Drennen and Katia Rico are gig workers who are now studying in emergency medical services programs. Each woman formerly worked for ride sharing companies but now wish to transition into roles that are more stable and predictable.
Drennen began her studies to become a certified paramedic after hearing good things about HCC from others. “I was told it would be challenging, but I didn’t let that deter me,” she said.
She is now working as an emergency medical technician and hopes eventually to become a nurse.
Rico cited flexible classes at HCC that allow her to create her own study and work schedules as a primary reason to choose its EMT program. “The training at HCC will allow me to have a more reliable job without being worried about not being able to have a steady income source because of the supply and demand system in gig work,” she said.
Indeed, HCC’s flexible course delivery options also fit well with gig workers. Students can choose from thousands of in-person or hybrid courses. In some programs, students are also able to personalize their schedules by completing courses online. People working in the gig sector may also qualify to receive financial support to pay for tuition, books and supplies.
Whether gig workers are looking to up their game or to exit the game, HCC offers a menu of options including fast-track training, two-year certificates and associate degrees.
To learn more, visit hccs.edu.