By KATHRYN KABE, guest columnist
As our local economy is beginning to emerge from the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, the Career Resource Center of Brown County (CRC) is providing some programs to help our neighbors get back on their feet.
For those who qualify, all of the training and testing will be completely free.
Many of our friends have either lost their jobs, or they need to learn new skills in order to qualify for a career in a different field. For community members who are interested in the healthcare field, we will have two different courses beginning in September.
Certified nursing assistant (CNA) classes will be held during the day on Tuesdays and Thursdays, and the certified clinical medical assistant (CCMA) classes will be held in the evening on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays.
As a CNA, you have the opportunity to work directly with patients and provide truly hands-on care. After training as a CCMA, you will be prepared to perform work related to clinical aspects of a medical office.
The CRC recently became a provider for the 180 Skills series of certifications. Community members may train to work in numerous areas of manufacturing, as well as learn ways to improve their employability skills. These courses are completely online, and students will be able to complete the work at their own pace.
One of the best ways for adults to improve their work opportunities is to become a high school graduate. If you or someone you know needs to finish his or her high school diploma, we are starting a new High School in a Hurry class.
Students who completed this course last year needed fewer than 25 hours of instruction, on average, to graduate. Successful candidates will earn their high school equivalency (HSE) diploma and be ready to begin a new career, to earn an additional certification, or to enroll in college classes.
One good reason to invest your time is that persons with a diploma earn about $9,500 more per year, on average, than those without one. In addition to the prospect of higher pay, with your HSE diploma, you will find that your job hunt is much easier.
For those of you who are working right now, obtaining a diploma may allow you to qualify for a promotion or to earn higher pay at your current place of work. It may also help you to keep your position if the economy does not recover quickly.
If you would like to know more, please call the CRC at 812-988-5880.
Kathryn Kabe is the adult education coordinator for the Career Resource Center of Brown County. She can be reached at 812-988-5880 or [email protected].
