Free workforce training offered to adults

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The Jackson County Learning Center in Seymour is offering free classes to adults looking to increase their workforce skills to make them more marketable for higher-paying jobs.

Participants can earn certifications in logistics, manufacturing production and Microsoft Office and also earn college credits toward a degree through Ivy Tech Community College.

The classes are being made available at no cost to participants through a grant from McDowell Adult Education Center in Columbus. Normally, they would cost anywhere from $2,200 to $2,800.

Nickie Nolting, adult education coordinator for McDowell, said she is hoping to get participation from area businesses and industries that want their employees to have more training to be better, more productive workers.

“Really anybody that wants a better job or wants to advance in their job or for businesses that want employees to be more effective,” she said.

Although some training programs stalled or were shut down because of the COVID-19 pandemic, Nolting said she believes now that the situation is improving, more people will be apt to take advantage of such opportunities.

Jackie Hill, workforce partnership director for Jackson County Industrial Development Corp., said in today’s job market, people need the skills, training and certifications for employment, promotion and better wages.

“Employers are hiring, and today’s jobs require increased skills to meet their employment needs,” she said. “This is a great opportunity for people to enroll in training classes that will give them the skills necessary to meet the needs of employers. It isn’t every day that free training is available.”

The Certified Logistics Technician course is an online course for adults interested in gaining knowledge and skills in material handling and supply chain logistics.

Upon completion, students will earn nationally recognized certifications for entry-level and front-line supervision positions at fulfillment centers, warehouses, distribution centers and factories.

The class begins today and runs through May 24. Students will be required to complete weekly activities outside of the four hours of virtual classes for a time commitment of approximately 10 hours per week.

Although the classes are held virtually, orientation and certification exams will be conducted in person at JCLC, 323 Dupont Drive, Seymour.

The Certified Production Technician program is an in-person course meeting from 5 to 8 p.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays beginning March 30 and running through May 27.

Following the Manufacturing Skill Standards Council curriculum, the class teaches the skills required to work in manufacturing. In today’s workforce, a high school diploma may not be enough to advance in a career because employers are looking to hire people with both experience and training, Nolting said.

Students must be willing to commit to six hours of in-person class weekly and up to 14 hours of outside study time per week.

After completing the course, students will be able to take certification exams in safety, quality, production and maintenance.

The Microsoft Office Specialist course will result in certification in Microsoft Word and Microsoft Excel.

Students who receive this certification have gone on to work as customer service specialists, administrative assistants and office managers, Nolting said.

This class meets from 5 to 8 p.m. Thursdays at JCLC and starts March 30 and ends May 18.

Participants will be required to complete some outside study time each week. Computer access will be available at the learning center outside of class time.

Those interested in enrolling should contact Lynnsay Swan at [email protected] or by calling 812-376-4451.

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Free workforce training certification classes

Certified Logistics Technician program

Online from March 25 to May 24

Certified Production Technician program

5 to 8 p.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays from March 30 to May 27 at the Jackson County Learning Center, 323 Dupont Drive, Seymour

Microsoft Office Specialist program

5 to 8 p.m. Thursdays from March 30 to May 18 at the Jackson County Learning Center

For information or to register, contact Lynnsay Swan at [email protected] or by calling 812-376-4451.

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