Work Readiness
The WorkFirst program features a diverse array of program options designed to engage parents full-time in activities that will prepare them for work. Depending on a parents previous work history, skills, interests, abilities, and the local labor market, they maybe eligible for one of the following programs:
Employment Related Services consists of packaged structured activities, usually provided by the Employment Security Department (ESD) that helps parents find and keep jobs. Employment Services can be a first step toward self-sufficiency for many WorkFirst families, those services may include:
- Employment Preparation
- Job Search (Employer contacts)
- Work Experience (when appropriate)
- On-the-Job Training (when appropriate)
- Career Services Program
To learn more, visit Employment Related Services or contact Ken Koernke at 360-438-3142.
Education and Training opportunities are available to WorkFirst parents and other low-income adults through your local community and technical college. Both mainstream educational opportunities and customized programs are offered, programs may include:
- Customized Job Skills Training (CJST) is employer-driven training for WorkFirst parents and low-income individuals, providing between 8-22 weeks of job specific training to develop skills that meet the needs of local employers.
- High Wage/High Demand, I-BEST, and Vocational Education are programsleading to one year certificates and/or degrees. These programs offer higher wages at entry than CJST programs and are linked to local in demand fields.
- Basic Skills and Employment-Related Training is for adults who need job specific skills including, English, basic skills, and workplace skills.
- Wage Progression Services are available for working parents who need to increase their skill levels and earnings.
- Work-Based Learning Opportunities include externships, clinical experiences, co-operative learning, and work study positions that provide real work experience in conjunction with training to provide a greater opportunity to secure a job.
To learn more, visit Education and Training or contact Amy Hatfield at 360-704-4335 or Robin Thompson at 360-704-4327.
CTED Work Programs provide work readiness opportunities for WorkFirst parents who need additional work experience and job skills to go to work. These opportunities are available up to full-time and combine both paid and un-paid work experience with basic skills, job skills training and/or intensive services. Programs are available statewide and are provided by local contracted providers.
- Community WEX
- Community Service
- Community Works
- Community Jobs
- Career Jump
To learn more, visit CTED Community Works Programs or contact Denny Naughton at 360-725-4147.
