The WorkReadyNH program is expanding to help youth age 16
and older develop job skills, officials at Great Bay Community College
announced today. Since the program began accepting participants in
October of 2011, WorkReadyNH has worked with more than 60 unemployed or
under-employed area residents to enhance their workplace skills and
employability. Great Bay Community College is now running their ninth
class and has had a total of 42 participants complete the program.
Currently, there are a total of 22 students in the two classes running.
Originally, the program was offered at no cost to unemployed
New Hampshire residents ages 18 and older. Because it has been received
so well by employers and partner organizations like NH Works, the free training
age requirement has been extended to those 16 years or older. WorkReadyNH
is also available to New Hampshire residents working 30 hours or less per week.
“By extending WorkReadyNH to include 16 -18 year olds,
we can assist a population that is not typically able to access professional
development opportunities. We are able to help them build their resume,
and portfolio, and at the same time have a real life business experience in a
job simulation format. The program was shaped to help people prepare for
an effective job search and be successful once they’re hired,” said Christopher
Lawrence, statewide liaison for WorkReadyNH.
“Students who complete the WorkReadyNH program receive a
National Career Readiness Certificate in addition to a soft skills credential,”
said Jennifer Scotland, WorkReadyNH Director at Great Bay Community College.
“Not only have employers been thrilled with the outcomes of our program, but
participants say they have changed their lives in just 15 days. We have
seen job seekers who on day one come into our program downtrodden and about to
give up on their job search. By participating in our course, they hone in
on their strengths and learn about the workplace with remarkable
outcomes. Now that we can open the doors to a wider audience of potential
participants, WorkReadyNH can make even more of an impact on the workforce and
answer New Hampshire employer’s needs.”
Eligibility
WorkReadyNH is FREE to New Hampshire residents, ages 16+,
working 30 hours or less per week (or is unemployed). To find a qualified
WorkReadyNH graduate or to refer a job-seeker to WorkReadyNH, please contact
the Great Bay Community College WorkReadyNH Center at 603-427-7636 or workreadygbcc@ccsnh.edu. Next classes
begin June 25 (Night class, Mon-Thurs, 4-8pm) and July 9 (Day class, Mon-Thurs,
9am-1pm). Complete schedules and more information can be found at www.ccsnh.edu/workreadynh. (courtesy photo)
