Trending
PARKERSBURG - Two agencies are joining together to sponsor programs for adults in the Mid-Ohio Valley to explore education, training and career opportunities.
Workforce Development Board Mid-Ohio Valley and Mid-Ohio Valley American Job Center will present It's Your Turn, a Back-to-School Event for Adults from 1-6 p.m. Sept. 15 at St. Joseph Landing in Parkersburg.
The program is designed for adults considering returning to school, earning a credential, finishing their education, training for a new career or increasing their earning potential, but may not know where to begin, Cyndi Auth, executive director of the Workforce Development Board, said.
"Back-to-school season naturally has families thinking about the future," Auth said. "We want adults in our communities to know that their future deserves that same attention. Whether someone wants to finish something they started years ago, prepare for a better-paying career, or simply explore what opportunities are available, this event gives them a place to start."
The event is a one-stop opportunity for what's available. Participants can meet with representatives who can provide information about college and career training programs, short-term occupational and credential training, GED and high school equivalency preparation, career exploration and career planning, financial assistance that may be available for eligible participants, Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act-funded education and training opportunities, transportation, books, supplies and other supportive services for eligible participants, job search assistance, resume and interview preparation and career advancement and opportunities to increase earning potential
The event is intended for adults at all stages of their career journey, including those who are currently working but want to advance, parents returning to the workforce, individuals considering a career change, adults who did not complete high school or college and anyone who has wondered whether additional education or training could open new doors.
For many adults, the biggest barrier to returning to school is knowing where to begin. Others assume they cannot afford training, have been out of school too long, or are unsure which career path makes sense. The event will remove some of that uncertainty by bringing resources together in one location and allowing participants to have conversations about their individual goals.
"You don't have to walk in with a career already chosen or an application already completed," Auth said. "Taking the first step might simply mean talking with someone about your options. Our American Job Center partners can help individuals understand what resources are available and develop a path forward."
The Workforce Development Board Mid-Ohio Valley works with businesses, education, workforce agencies and community partners throughout the region to connect people with opportunities that lead to sustainable employment and career advancement.
Additional programs are scheduled:
11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday at 80 Spring Run Road, Arnoldsburg, in Calhoun County.
2-6 p.m. Sept. 2 at the Family Support Center, 888 E. Main St., Harrisville, in Ritchie County.
2-6 p.m. Sept. 14 at the Family Support Center, 624 Main Street, Point Pleasant, in Mason County.
1-5 p.m. Sept. 15 at 204 Stone Drive, Ripley, in Jackson County.
2-6 p.m. Sept. 16, at the Family Support Center, 116 Harriet St., Elizabeth, in Wirt County.
For additional information, call the Mid-Ohio Valley American Job Center at 304-420-4531, go to WDBMOV.com or go to the American Job Center at St. Joseph Landing at 19th Street and Murdoch Avenue in Parkersburg.