A new training certification program through Goodwill Career Solutions could help scores of local people get jobs.
"If you have a barrier to employment like you just moved here, are a displaced homemaker, or because of downsizing have lost your job, we can help you," said career counselor Angela Griffin.
The pilot program, Training Retail Associate Certification, has been successful in Nashville and will be taught in Clarksville starting in July.
Goodwill Career Solutions officials have high hopes the inaugural class will launch more frequent offerings. Success depends on local businesses willing to partner and people committed to improving their marketability as an employee.
Essentially, the course focuses on communications and customer service and is free to people eligible through pre-assessment.
Heather Featherstone, a Career Solutions trainer based in Nashville, will present the 25-hour course in five-hour sessions for five consecutive days.
"This training is a dovetail effort between employers and potential employees.
"Clients will learn interviewing skills, customer service relations, resume building and take field trips to local businesses who are partnering with us," Featherstone said.
Local partnering business (Olive Garden, Lowes, Outback Steakhouse, Convergys, Target and Goodwill Retail Store) will have the opportunity to interview students when they finish the course.
"Completing the course does not guarantee a job," Featherstone said, "but, I'm going to do my best to get you in the door."
Other programs
Helping people find employment is more than a job to both Griffin and Featherstone.
"Angie and I have a vested interest. We're not just here for a paycheck, we actually care," Featherstone said.
"We're all about work," Griffin added.
"We want to see people succeed."
Goodwill Career Solutions also provides a site for the Adult Literacy Council to match tutors with people wanting English as a Second Language classes.
"This works out great for people who typically work second shifts and need a location to meet the tutor late in the evening," Griffin said.
GED classes are coordinated through the Adult Literacy Council. Anyone wanting more information about that program may call 542-5046.
Griffin also hosts "intake orientations" at 9 a.m. Thursdays highlighting services provided through Goodwill Career Solutions like an updated local listing of job openings, assistance in building a resume, access to a computer lab and phone and fax service for use in seeking employment.Labels: career training, financial aid, student loans |
