Among the folks representing the fastest growing population on America’s community college campuses are the “Plus 50” students.

Many of the 78 million baby boomer generation envision themselves as not “old, elderly or senior.” They see themselves as vibrant, energetic and eager to jump-start a stalled career or retrain for a new one.

To help community colleges accommodate these students, the American Association of Community Colleges launched its Plus 50 Initiative in 2008, supported with a grant from The Atlantic Philanthropies.

Wake Tech is one of 15 community colleges throughout the United States currently offering a Plus 50 program. Triangle residents can now register for local, affordable classes.

“We are providing the kinds of classes that can lead to furthering a career or exploring new ones,” said Martha Williams, dean of community projects and educational programs.

Williams is palpably excited about the summer course offerings. “We’ve zeroed in on what the people want, topic and subject wise,” said Williams.

Students often tell her that they are happy to continue working to acquire new skills. More than that, they express their feelings about now having the option to explore areas that were unavailable in the past.

An example of one of the most popular courses is titled “Re-Careering and Re-Hiring.” The main focus of the class is geared toward folks re-entering the work force.

Instructor Alan Clement uses an updated, practical approach for preparing job seekers to enter today’s market. “As a lifelong career coach, I’ve spent my entire working life ‘looking for work,’” Clement said. “I derive great satisfaction in helping people understand the realities of today’s workplace, which might better be called tomorrow’s marketplace. What I do in class is encourage students in applying their time using research techniques for emerging markets, tailoring their resume to fit and developing strategies to get where they want to be.”

Clement emphasizes that old markets will not be coming back exactly as they were. Getting a leg up on new marketplaces is the wave of tomorrow’s workforce.

Paul Sadler enrolled and had this to say: “Thanks for making this incredible class available. Alan is skilled, professional, personal and highly in tune with the specific concerns of each student. The class lived up to what it advertised … and more. It is a wonderful resource.”

Another popular course is “Write It and Publish It.” Instructor Zelda Lockhart, an award-winning novelist, helps instill confidence in her students. “Zelda has the ability to pull words out of the fledging writers. Her interactive course reduces their hesitancy,” said Williams, who occasionally sits in to observe.

Further testimony as to the benefits of the writing course and the Plus 50 program comes from Maya McNeilly, who attended with her sister and father. “I thought Zelda was fabulous. ...Wake Tech and its incredible staff are a wonderful resource for our community.”

On the practical side, “Cut Your Grocery Bill in Half” adheres to the wishes of students. It is scheduled for a half-day Saturday seminar-type offering.

Williams said that adult learners are more self-motivated. They come in ready to learn. “I was personally amazed to learn about coupon clipping techniques, how to use triple coupons, shop in conjunction with specials and combine promotions for ultimate cost reduction. Planning ahead is key. It leads to strategic methods of cost effectiveness,” said Williams.

Registration is ongoing for summer courses and can be found in “Turning Over a New Leaf,” the continuing education bulletin mailed to 140,000 residents. Registration for fall takes place in mid to late July.

For information on enrollment, visit conted.waketech.edu or call 866-5840.