MJSP Funded Projects – September 14, 2015
GRANTEE / TRAINING PROVIDER / AMOUNT / PROGRAMGreater Bemidji-MN Innovation Institute / MN Innovation Institute-The Idea Circle / $198,000 / Low Income Worker
Greater Bemidji is a non-profit organization that provides integrated economic and workforce development services in Northwest Minnesota. Greater Bemidji expanded its organization through the development of the MN Innovation Institute (MI2) to keep a “private led, private driven” focus to meet the staffing/skills needs of businesses and provide good paying jobs for unemployed/unskilled/underemployed individuals. Located on the Northwest Technical College campus in Bemidji, M12’s High Performance Center is the hub location for MI2 staff, training, ABE and access into continued career pathways education. Through MJSP funding, 48 individuals will receive training in one of two areas – 1) CNC Machine Operator training, a 160-hour course that prepares trainees for certification from the National Institute of Metalworking Skills (NIMS); 2) Mechatronics, an 80-hour course providing entry level skills into the technical careers of machine maintenance and machine repair. Recruitment and assessment will be coordinated with a number of partnering organizations that include WorkForce Centers, Community Action Programs and New Beginnings on Red Lake Reservation. Priority will be given to Native American and other minority groups with on-site recruitment at Leech Lake and Red Lake Reservations; long-term unemployed; individuals moving off assistance; Veterans; and Older Workers. Prior to training, individuals meet one-on-one with a MI2 Navigator to complete an assessment, attend an Orientation to the manufacturing field; and must pass the NCRC assessment at the Silver level. Throughout training, needed supportive services will be provided through partnerships with other organizations. Midway through training, a Reverse Job Fair will bring in companies to meet with individuals to discuss employment opportunities with the goal of placing trainees before training is completed. Expected placement rate is 85%.
The Median wage offer for targeted occupations (in the region served by applicant agency) is as follows: Assemblers & Fabricators - $13/04; Computer-Controlled Machine Tool Operators, Metal - $14.45; Metal Workers & Plastic Workers - $14.94
GRANTEE / TRAINING PROVIDER / AMOUNT / PROGRAMSouthwest MN Private Industry Council, Inc. / MN West Community & Technical College / $78,320 / Low Income Worker
The Southwest MN Private Industry Council (SW MN PIC), located in Marshall, is a private, non-profit organization which provides employment and training services to the 14-county area of southwestern Minnesota. SW MN PIC will partner with MN West Community & Technical College (MN West CTC) to provide 40 unemployed/low income individuals with the opportunity to earn an industry-recognized credential that will help them learn the skills to begin or advance in a manufacturing career. The MSSC (Manufacturing Skills Standards Council) Certified Production Technician (CPT) credential addresses the needs of the worker and reduces recruiting and on-the-job training costs of employers. SW Adult Basic Education instructors will provide basic skills development for participants needing to develop their foundational skills (reading, math, computer skills, and work readiness) in order to be successful. In addition, SW ABE will support MN West CTC instructors through an integrated instruction approach in the technical skills classes to assure mastery of all training components. Four (2-credit) courses (Safety Awareness; Manufacturing Processes and Production; Quality Practices and Maintenance Awareness) will prepare participants to earn MSSC’s CPT certificate and either enter the workforce as a basic technician, or be positioned to continue in a manufacturing career pathway through additional post-secondary training, on-the-job training, and/or training offered by an employer. Entry-level incumbent worker participants will attain skills needed to advance in a career pathway within their industry. Expected placement rate is 60%.
The Median wage offer for targeted occupations (in the region served by applicant agency) is as follows: Installation, Maintenance and Repair: $11.82-$15.39; Production Occupations: $9.94-$13.03; Certified Production Technician: $11.25.
GRANTEE / TRAINING PROVIDER / AMOUNT / PROGRAMWorkforce Development, Inc. / Riverland Community College,
South Central College / $200,000 / Low Income Worker
Workforce Development, Inc. (WDI), located in Rochester, is a private, non-profit agency dedicated to developing and advancing the workforce. WDI delivers its services through ten area offices located throughout southeast Minnesota. The Healthcare Academy (HCA), created and sustained by WDI, focuses on career pathways with the Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) as the entry point into the healthcare field. Previous MJSP funding has allowed MDI to offer Pre-CNA Preparatory courses via the Healthcare Academy and CNA training/certification. MJSP funding will now support the next level of the healthcare pathway with the shift in focus to Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) certification. Training will be provided in three levels, based on the needs of the participant – Pre-employment Academy; CNA training and certification (through Riverland Community College or South Central College); LPN prerequisite courses (via either college). Participants who complete the first two levels of training will be eligible for LPN prerequisite courses. Individuals who have previously completed their CNA certification and worked as a CNA for the past year are automatically eligible for LPN prerequisite coursework. Prerequisite courses for Riverland Community College is Biology (3 credits); at South Central the prerequisite is Biology, Anatomy and Physiology (4 credits). Admittance into the LPN program is based on the academic success of the participant’s prerequisite coursework. Students will receive assistance from ABE tutors and guidance from WDI career counselors to increase success. This proposal addresses key issues facing low-income CNAs who desire to become LPNs – space in the prerequisite class for the LPN program; the availability of the class itself, and the difficulty of obtaining financial aid or workforce development funding to help pay for a single class. Funding is requested to cover the costs of 179 participants: 69 for the Pre-employment Healthcare Academy, 58 for CNA training/certification, and 52 for LPN prerequisite courses. Expected completion rates are 91%, 86% and 92% respectively.
The Median wage offer for targeted occupations (in the region served by applicant agency) is as follows: Nursing Assistant: $10.96; Licensed Practical Nurse: $20.57.
GRANTEE / TRAINING PROVIDER / AMOUNT / PROGRAMCentral MN Jobs and Training Services, Inc. / St. Cloud Technical & Community College, Anoka Technical College, Pine Technical & Community College, Ridgewater College / $198,000 / Low Income Worker
Central Minnesota Jobs and Training (CMJTS) is a non-profit organization that operates employment and training programs in the 11-country Central Minnesota area. CMJTS has offices in ten counties in WSA 5 (Chisago, Isanti, Kanabec, Kandiyohi, McLeod, Meeker, Mille Lacs, Pine Renville, Sherburne and Wright) providing individualized case management, career assessments, training and tuition assistance, and support services. Through MJSP funding, 25 individuals will attend a Licensed Practical Nursing (LPN) program at one of four colleges -- St. Cloud Technical & Community College, Anoka Technical College, Pine Technical & Community College, or Ridgewater College. The Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) training is the next step in the nursing career ladder and will prepare students to take the LPN examination upon successful completion of classroom and clinical coursework. CMJTS employment specialists will recruit, screen and refer potential students who have the ability and interest to benefit from the LPN training. Students will be co-enrolled in an employment and training program through CMJTS and will receive support services, as the program allows, and job placement assistance from their case manager. The expected placement rate is 80%.
The Median wage offer for targeted occupations (in the region served by applicant agency) is as follows: Licensed Practical Nurse: $15.45 - $16.77
GRANTEE / TRAINING PROVIDER / AMOUNT / PROGRAMAnoka County Job Training Center / Anoka Technical College / $154,000 / Low Income Worker
The Anoka County Job Training Center (ACJTC) is a county department within the County Human Service Division and is a primary partner of the MN WorkForce Center-Anoka County. The agency is located within the Human Service Center which co-locates all the major employment and training service providers with 20 other human services and educational providers offering a range of services from on-site child care, food shelf, housing services, emergency assistance, mental health counseling, legal services, public health nursing and energy assistance. This project will provide 40 low-income individuals (with no other tuition supports) with the opportunity to complete a Precision Sheet Metal Training. Outreach and recruitment will occur through the WorkForce Center, colleges and employer partners. An orientation session will provide an overview of the industry and career laddering opportunities prior to starting a 40-hour Shop Math course, provided by Metro North Adult Basic Education, designed to prepare students for entry into the technical training and foster student success. Precision Sheet Metal training combines 100 hours of classroom and lab exercises that includes machine-specific safety processes, applied shop math, blueprint reading, trouble shooting and basic tool maintenance. During training participants attend workshops regarding resume writing, interviewing, networking and job search preparation. At the completion of training, participants attend a graduation/job fair with employers present to collect applications and interview graduates on the spot. The expected placement rate is 90%.
The Median wage offer for targeted occupations (in the region served by applicant agency) is as follows: Computer Controlled Machine Tool Operations upon completion of training levels 1, 2, and on-the-job training - $24.98; Cutting, Punching, and Press Machine Setters, Operators - $14.50
GRANTEE / TRAINING PROVIDER / AMOUNT / PROGRAMSoutheast Asian Refugee Community Home / TSC Connect, LLC / $50,000 / Low Income Worker
The Southeast Asian Refugee Community Home (SEARCH), located in Minneapolis, assists immigrant and refugee clients in becoming self-sufficient by offering services and training that will lead to jobs with sustainable income. Through MJSP funding, 40 low- income individuals will receive soldering skills training. SEARCH is selectively investing in soldering because many of their clients have some experience in this area. The training will be provided by TSC Connect LLC, an industry certified trainer for J-STD-001E soldering certification. Training will combine lecture and hands on soldering skills through five modules, with each module averaging about 16 hours for completion. Module one begins with an overview of the requirements and a proficiency closed book test. Remaining modules require operators to demonstrate proficiency in soldering skills, defect recognition and understanding the process requirements of the standard. Passing all five modules will result in industry-recognized J-STD-001E soldering certification. Students who struggle with training may work with instructor in excess of 160 hours in order to pass all modules but will not pass the course if they do not pass all testing standards. Trainees who do not achieve certification may be classified with limited proficiency soldering skills which will qualify them for lower class soldering jobs (i.e., home electronic devices). TSC Connect will provide job interview practice as a component of the training. SEARCH has a solid soldering employer network with which participants are guaranteed interviews upon successful completion of training. The expected placement rate is 86%.
The Median wage offer for targeted occupations (in the region served by applicant agency) is as follows: Solderers - $21.21; Maintenance & Repair Workers, General - $16.94
GRANTEE / TRAINING PROVIDER / AMOUNT / PROGRAMGoodwill/Easter Seals Minnesota / Goodwill/Easter Seals Minnesota / $82,995 / Low Income Worker
Since 1919, Goodwill/Easter Seals of Minnesota (G-ESM) has assisted individuals with barriers to education, employment and independence in achieving their goals through a variety of employment and support services. G-ESM’s training programs provide durable skills and employer-recognized certificates through short-term trainings in inclusive, hands-on learning environments that prepare participants for livable wage jobs and advancement opportunities. Each curriculum is tailored to meet local labor market demands and is shaped by direct input from business leaders who participate on Business Advisory Councils. MJSP funding will support training for 50 low-income individuals and prepare them for entry-level occupations that serve the Financial and Customer Service industries. All participants work one-on-one with a Career Specialist to create a career/goal plan and to determine any needed remedial education and support services. Trainees will complete a 150-hour Banking & Finance course designed to prepare them for employment for a variety of customer and finance-related occupations. The G-ESM training combines classroom instruction, on-the-job training, industry guest speakers, tours, and employment readiness assistance. Participants also receive access to job readiness, placement, advancement and other support services through integration with G-ESM’s various programs. Career Specialists will support the participant until graduation and help to secure employment through a network of employer contacts. Follow-up support services provided by G-ESM will maximize job retention and career advancement. The expected placement rate is 80%.
The Median wage offer for targeted occupations (in the region served by applicant agency) is as follows: Bill & Account Collectors - $14.83; Billing & Postal Clerks - $14.48; Tellers - $14.02; Customer Service Reps - $13.22; Retail Salespersons - $8.59.
GRANTEE / TRAINING PROVIDER / AMOUNT / PROGRAMCommunidades Latinas Unidas En Servicio (CLUES) / CLUES / $71,924 / Low Income Worker
CLUES is a non-profit organization that was founded in 1981 by Latinos for Latinos who shared a vision for improving the quality of life of the Latino population in Minnesota. While services focus on the Latino family, the organization’s experience and capabilities enable it to serve all low-income, under employed and unemployed individuals and families who dream of a better future. CLUES has over 27 years of experience providing employment services at two Twin City locations in south Minneapolis and east St. Paul. CLUES convenes a Community Advisory Group (CAG) consisting of 15 employers that meet quarterly to discuss employment trends, select new trainings, and modify curricula to ensure that training is effectively preparing their clients for available jobs. The members of the CAG have indicated a need for more qualified candidates for entry level customer service positions; in particular, there is a need for bilingual staff. With the support of MJSP funding, CLUES will provide culturally relevant Customer Service training that will prepare 45 participants to attain jobs in Call Centers or Office/Reception positions. Potential participants must demonstrate they have the skills needed to be successful through a thorough intake interview and assessment process. They will also identify and address any barriers impacting the client’s ability to succeed in the program and to obtain employment. Eligible participants will enroll in the training that fits their career interest and schedule. Instruction begins with an orientation covering program goals and responsibilities of the participants followed by 64 hours of training. Upon completion, clients take an online exam to receive the industry-recognized National Retail Federation Foundation (NRFF) Professional Certification in Customer Service. The expected placement rate is 67%.
The Median wage offer for targeted occupations (in the region served by applicant agency) is as follows: Customer Service Rep - $13.22; Receptionist and Information Clerk - $12.02; Retail Salesperson - $8.59.
GRANTEE / TRAINING PROVIDER / AMOUNT / PROGRAMMinnesota African Women’s Association / North American Medical Academy / $99,671 / Low Income Worker
The Minnesota African Women’s Association (MAWA) was founded in 2002 with the mission to promote the health and well-being of African refugee and Immigrant women and their families in the Twin Cities’ area. Since 2006, MAWA has provided employment and training services which include employment needs assessments, work readiness training, referral to job training, job search and placement support, and follow-up to assure job retention and movement up a career ladder whenever possible. MJSP funding will address a continuing gap between the number of low-income Pan-African women in the Twin Cities Metro area that indicate an interest in receiving training to become Certified Nursing Assistants/Home Health Aides and the relatively limited number of women that are able to attend and complete training. The proposed project will support 82 Pan-African women with training to become Certified Nursing Assistants/Home Health Aides and to plan for and advance along a career ladder. A pre-screening and assessment will determine training readiness and identify resources (i.e., daycare, transportation) needed to complete training. North American Medical Academy (NAMA) will deliver the 120-hour training which includes two days of practical experience in a hospital setting and a two to four day clinical internship in a nursing home setting. All 82 women will receive First Aid CPR training; 20 participants will also complete and receive certification via a Trained Medication Aide course, positioning them to gain more responsibility and higher pay. Depending on their career interest, students will have the option to take the state certification exam for Nursing Assistant or Home Health Aide alone or take a combined certification exam. Upon completion of the NAMA training, MAWA employment staff assist clients with job placement through their existing network of employers; often graduates are placed with the nursing homes in which they did their clinical internships. MAWA staff will stay in contact with graduates to follow-up and give them support for taking the next step in their career ladder as needed. Expected placement rate is 95%.