The deadline is fast approaching for people interested in enrolling in the Advanced Manufacturing and Nano-Technology Certificate Training Program.
Applications will continue to be accepted until July 15, and after that people will be placed on a waiting list. The program is FREE of charge and will run for 11 weeks, beginning in September.
Applications for the program are available through the Genesee County Career Center, 587 E. Main St., Suite 100, East Town Plaza, Batavia. Updates regarding the program will be posted on the Genesee County Economic Development Center's website at www.gcedc.com
The GCEDC -- in conjunction with Genesee Community College (GCC) and the Rochester Institute of Technology (RIT) -- developed the program to help bridge the gap between employers and prospective employees.
Funded by a grant from the New York State Office of Community Renewal, the training program is designed to prepare participants for entry-level manufacturing positions by introducing them to the skill sets necessary to succeed in a high-tech and advanced-manufacturing environment.
“We currently have a tremendous pool of applicants for the certificate program, but will continue accepting applications for the program to ensure that any community member who would like to participate is given an equal opportunity,” said John Jakubowski, education consultant for the GDEDC.
Preparation for employment is crucial in any industry.
“The more prepared students become in advanced manufacturing, the more successful they will be in future endeavors and valuable to employers,” Jakubowski said.
Successful participants will earn a certificate in Advanced Manufacturing and Nano-Technology and have an opportunity to meet with local employers at the end of the program.
Many people who are unemployed have to make a conscious effort to learn a new trade, or go back to school because there are limited opportunities in their desired field.
“When I speak to employers they continually tell me that they need workers," Jakubowski said. "When I speak to the unemployed they want to get back to work. The disconnect occurs between what types of jobs are available and what types of employment is sought; expectations on both sides must be managed."
