Centralina Workforce Development Board Again Tops in the State!

Rowan-Cabarrus CC and Mitchell CC Make Top 10 List for CRC Sites

The Centralina Workforce Development Board once again has risen to the top in the State for the Career Readiness Certification (CRC). A recent report released from the North Carolina Community College System has rated the top ten CRC sites in the State. Two of the CRC sites in the Centralina WDB area made it into the top five. Rowan-Cabarrus Community College and Mitchell Community College were both listed in the State’s top five CRC sites. They are recognized for their many creative efforts to reach the communities to make them aware of the Career Readiness Certification.

One of the key goals of the Centralina Workforce Development Board is to Increase Workforce Readiness. Recognizing that the most important asset we have is human intelligence and ability, the Board is working to ensure that our workforce can adapt quickly to the changing demands of the global workplace through their abilities to use information, think analytically, work in teams, and be proficient in the use of technology. To this end, the Centralina WDB made the implementation and use of the Career Readiness Certification program and Work Keys assessment in all seven counties in the region a top priority.

As reported in our May 2007 E-Newsletter, the Career Readiness Certification is a state program that is designed to equip individuals with a recognizable skill certification that facilitates job placement, retention, and advancement. The Career Readiness Certification helps to ensure a community workforce that is prepared for the jobs of the future, as well as jobs that sustain the current economic base.

There are three levels of certificates awarded, Bronze, Silver, and Gold, all based on WorkKeys Assessments. These assessments can be used by any entity concerned about the employability skills of current and future employees. Test results provide valuable information for individuals, employers, colleges, JobLink Career Centers, and skills training programs.

The latest college to implement the CRC program, South Piedmont Community College (SPCC) held a kick-off breakfast meeting for Anson County on Thursday May 31st at the college’s Lockhart-Taylor Center in Wadesboro. Implementation of the CRC program at South Piedmont Community College’s campus in Union County will occur later this summer. The Anson County kick-off was held for members of the local business community to learn about WorkKeys and the value of an employee with a CRC.

“This is one of the most significant economic development opportunities that has come to Anson County in a long time. The CRC and WorkKeys program will improve the quality of the competitive workforce in Anson County,” said SPCC President Dr. John McKay.

With the launch of the new site at South Piedmont Community College the Career Readiness Certificate Program is available to every business and job seeker in the Centralina region. Other sites that already offering the program (with additional funding assistance provided by the Centralina WDB) are Rowan-Cabarrus Community College, Mitchell Community College, and Gaston College – Lincoln Campus. Job seekers can pre-test for the CRC program at the local JobLink Career Centers in the region.

This was the goal that the Centralina Workforce Development Board set for itself and the goal has been achieved. Through the implementation of this program throughout the region it can guarantee a well prepared and qualified workforce. A well prepared and qualified workforce leads to economic development and an overall better quality of life in the region.

“In today’s society, there’s no room for dropouts, for an unskilled workforce. We need individuals with all the skills to make a difference,” stated David Hollars, Executive Director of the Centralina Workforce Development Board.

If you are a job seeker and would like to get started on the process of getting your Career Readiness Certificate to better market your skills to a new employer or to your current one, please contact your local JobLink Career Center. The staff at the JobLink Center can help you get started with the pre-assessment and the WorkKeys assessment, as well as connect you to your local community college to get your certificate. To find your local JobLink Career Center please click here.

If you are an employer and would like to talk with someone more about the WorkKeys Assessment and the Career Readiness Certification please contact your local JobLink Career Center. The staff at the JobLink Center can explain the assessment and the certificate and fit it to your business and your needs. To find your local JobLink Career Center please click here.

The Centralina Workforce Development Board is proud to partner with the JobLink Career Centers and the region’s community colleges to help train the workforce for the future. The Board promotes continuous training and continuous improvement for all businesses and job seekers in the region. For more information on the Centralina Workforce Development Board or the CRC program, please contact David Hollars at (704) 348-2717 or by email at dhollars@centralina.org.

Centralina’s Outstanding Contribution Recognized!

Union County Public Schools Recognized David Hollars and the Centralina WDB for their Contribution to the BICEPS Program

At the recent Union County Public Schools meeting held on June 8, 2007 David Hollars and the Centralina Workforce Development Board were recognized for their contribution to the BICEPS Program in Union County.

The BICEPS Program is a joint partnership between the JobReady Partnership and Union County Public Schools. BICEPS stands for Business and Industry Collaborative Education Partnerships. The program gives teachers the opportunity to intern with a local business or industry during the summer vacation as well as, work in an area related to their curriculum.

This years BICEPS Program for Union County Public Schools classroom teachers will be held this summer and will once again be able to put teachers in a business to find out what that business are needing from the up and coming workforce.

The Centralina Workforce Development Board is a strong supporter and partner with the Union County JobReady Partnership and Union County Public Schools. Because of the strong partnership between the three the youth in the Centralina region will be well prepared for the workforce. Without the support and team work between the organizations the youth in Union County would not be aware of industries in their communities and would not have the skills that they needed that employers are wanting.

The Centralina Workforce Development Board believes that teachers and employers must work together in the region so that our workforce is one of the most desired in the nation. For more information on the BICEPS Program please contact Linda Smith at (704) 289-5223 or by email at LINDA.SMITH@ucps.k12.nc.us. For more information on the Centralina Workforce Development Board please contact David Hollars at (704) 348-2717 or by email at dhollars@centralina.org.

ASMO North Carolina, Inc wins Award for Safety Efforts

Iredell County Employer Wins Award for Second Year in a Row - Thanks in Part to WDB Incumbent Worker Training

For the second year in a row, ASMO North Carolina Inc. located in Statesville (Iredell County) was recently recognized by the N.C. Department of Labor for its safety efforts. The Department of Labor awarded the company with a Million Hour Award at the Statesville Safety Awards Banquet.

So far, the 431 employees at ASMO have gone 2 million hours or two years without having an accident where they would have to miss work.

Human Resources manager, Jeff Stutts said that it their record is pretty good considering each employee works 2,080 hours a year.

“We are working on our third million,” he said.
Japan-based ASMO develops, manufactures and sells small motor systems products for automobiles and office automation machines. Stutts credits a weekly bulletin that is sent to every ASMO location with safety information for some of the success.

In addition to the international company’s corporate safety plan, it also has an internal one, which includes two safety specialists and a nurse practitioner on staff.

“Everybody’s safety is their own responsibility,” Stutts said. “Safety has to be driven from the top down.”

Another contributing factor is the $140 million reinvestment ASMO has made to automate the plan. Stutts stated that going from manual to automated cut back on the number of carpal tunnel injuries, which resulted in missed days. The training that ASMO received that helped them streamline their productivity and activity was due in part to an Incumbent Worker Grant, made available by the Centralina Workforce Development Board. The WDB sponsored Incumbent Worker training that ASMO employees received helped the company obtain reachable and positive goals. To find out how your company can receive Incumbent Worker training funds. please contact Vail Carter, Centralina Workforce Development Board Business Services Coordinator at (704) 348-2710 or by email at vcarter@centralina.org.

The Centralina Workforce Development Board is proud to partner with businesses throughout the region to offer the current workforce training to improve their skills and the profits of the company. It’s the great workforce in this region that continues to allow companies in the region to continue to grow and expand. A qualified workforce is job one for the Centralina Workforce Development Board. For more information on the Centralina Workforce Development Board, please contact David Hollars at (704) 348-2717 or by e-mail at dhollars@centralina.org.

Hot off the Presses!

RSI Expands and adds 400 Jobs in Lincolnton!

RSI Home Products in Lincoln County is expanding for the fifth time since it opened in the Lincoln County Industrial Park nine years ago. This expansion will add 400 jobs to the region and will make the company the county’s largest employer with a workforce of 1,450. The $15 million project is slated for completion next year.

RSI will add 350,000 square feet to its facility. With that project, the company will grow to 1.5 million square feet in two county facilities. RSI operates a manufacturing facility on North Generals Boulevard in Lincolnton as well as the industrial park off of US Highway 321.

Two years ago, RSI added 150 jobs and invested $9.25 million in a plant expansion that included a 200,000 square-foot addition.

“We appreciate this expression of confidence by RSI in Lincoln County and the opportunities this expansion will bring to our citizens,” says Tom Anderson, chairman of the board of commissioners.

Expansions by existing industry are particularly prized in Lincoln County, says Charity Pittman, existing-business manager at the Lincoln Economic Development Association. In the Last year, local plants have invested $50.7 million in expansions and added more than 550 jobs.

The Centralina Workforce Development Board is proud to partner with Lincoln Economic Development Association to help current businesses in the region continue to expand. It’s the great workforce in this region that continues to allow productive companies in the area to grow. A qualified workforce is job one for the Centralina Workforce Development Board. For more information on the Centralina Workforce Development Board please contact David Hollars at (704) 348-2717 or by e-mail at dhollars@centralina.org.

New Website Brings New Businesses

Anson County Launches New Economic Development Website

Anson County Manager Andy Lucas announced the release of the county’s new Economic Development Website: www.ansonedc.org.

The site will provide exceptional graphics, functionality, and accessibility to information of interest to possible businesses and economic developers.

According to Lucas, the site will affect Anson County both immediately and long-term.
“Immediately, it will set up a web presence that is high quality when business consultants and companies begin looking for areas to expand,” he said.

In the long-run, he sees this site as a reaffirmation of the partnership between Anson County and Progress Energy, an investment that is beneficial to both parties. Anson County is the first of 59 counties in the Carolinas where Progress Energy has done the project from start to finish.

Lucas stated that Anson County hopes to bring in new businesses and residents with the new website. The site also offers quotes from businesses within the community, as well as information about the growing workforce in the region.

The Centralina Workforce Development Board is proud to partner with Anson County to help continue to build a great workforce and bring productive and growing businesses into the region. The Centralina Workforce Development Board believes that continuous improvement leads to a more productive and desired workforce. For more information on the Centralina Workforce Development Board, please contact David Hollars at (704) 348-2717 or by e-mail at dhollars@centralina.org.

Expansion of Hospital Brings Opportunities

Stanly Hospital Teams with Carolinas HealthCare System

Stanly Regional Medical Center has signed an agreement with Carolinas HealthCare System to provide health-care services in western Stanly County.

Being aligned with a large hospital system can bring additional resources to the county, says John Lowder, chairman of Stanly Regional’s board of directors.

Carolinas HealthCare System has signed a series of deals with regional health-care providers, but this pact allows Stanly Regional to remain independent.

The agreement will help the hospital develop the remainder of the 21-acre Stanly Regional West campus in Locust. Construction of medical offices and a medical imaging center is scheduled to begin this month.

With the expansion of this hospital and the collaboration of the two many workforce opportunities will open in the region, and when they do occur the Centralina Workforce Development Board will be there with its partners offering services, training, and of course an excellent workforce.

Please check futures issues of the Centralina Workforce Development Board’s monthly E-newsletter for more updates on this exciting development in Stanly County.

“GOLDEN” Opportunity Adds 30 More Jobs in Anson County

Anson County Receives Golden LEAF Foundation Grant

The Golden LEAF Foundation, which administers half of the money received by the State of North Carolina from its settlement with cigarette manufacturers, made grants at its meeting this month to boost economic development efforts in largely rural North Carolina counties.

Anson County received $300,000 to upgrade its sewer system to accommodate wastewater from an expanded textile operation that will add 30 new jobs.

Valeria Lee, President of the Golden LEAF Foundation, said the grants made range from improvements to infrastructure such as water and sewer systems that will enable communities to retain companies and jobs, to grants improving workforce health.

“These grants are going to be highly significant for many rural counties that have immediate needs they could not meet without Golden LEAF assistance,” she said.

Please check futures issues of the Centralina Workforce Development Board’s monthly E-newsletter for more updates on this exciting development in the region.

Design With Driving in Mind

Riley Technologies Moves to Mooresville

Riley Technologies has opened its new facility on Overhill Drive in Talbert Pointe Business Park in Mooresville.

The company designs and builds racecars in the Prototype, IRL and Trans Am Series. It moved from Speedway Indiana, where it was founded some 16 years ago by famed designers Bob and Bill Riley.

The company has some 34 full-time employees. Car and Driver Magazine described Riley as “America’s most prolific and most successful designer of race cars.”

For information about employment with Riley Technologies, please contact Jim Hadden at the Iredell County JobLink Career Center located in Mooresville at (704) 664-4225 or by email at jim.hadden@ncmail.net.

Clancy & Theys Eyes Medical Project at NC Research Campus

Clancy & Theys Construction Company of Charlotte will likely be the general contractor for the fifth building on the NC Research Campus in Kannapolis.

The company has signed a letter of intent to construct the 160,000 square-foot NorthEast Medical and Cabarrus Family Medicine Building at the biotech site.

Research campus officials haven’t disclosed a timetable for construction or the building’s value.

The campus’ 311,000 square-foot core lab, the 103,000 square-foot Nutrition Research Institute and a central energy plant are under construction. The core lab building is slated to open in January, and Dr. Steven Zeisel, who heads the Nutrition Research Institute, says the facility should be complete in March.

Also, developers broke ground in April for the NC State University’s Institute of Advanced Fruit and Vegetable Science building.

The $1.5 billion research campus – developed by California billionaire David Murdock, several NC Universities and other business interests – is being built on the 350 acres of the former Pillowtex Corporation headquarters and mills. The complex is expected to create 5,000 biotech jobs and an estimated 35,000 ancillary positions.

For more information on the NC Research Campus, please be sure to visit the Centralina Workforce Development’s website at www.centralinaworks.com.

Guide to Reduce Unwanted Turnover Among Lower-Skilled Workers

Public/Private Ventures Creates New Guide for Employers

Public/Private Ventures has developed a new guide that encourages employers to consider alternative ideas and practices that could reduce unwanted turnover among lower-skilled, lower-wage workers.

“Here to Stay” offers cost-effective strategies, such as involving co-workers in the interview process; providing fair, empathetic supervision; being flexible when possible; and partnering with organizations to assist low-income workers.

To order a copy, visit the Public/Private Ventures website at www.ppv.org.

Looking to Connect with Nonprofits? Look Here!

Hitachi Foundation Releases New Guides that Brings Business and Nonprofits Together

The Hitachi Foundation has recently published its Pocket Guide for Business Leaders-Find, Train, & Keep Productive Employees Through Alliances in Your Community.

It offers practical advice to small and medium-sized businesses about forming partnerships with nonprofit organizations to help build a stronger workforce, mining the lessons from 27 business/nonprofit alliances in which the Foundation invested.

It references a number of resources, including the National Association of Workforce Boards, which business can contact for information on employee development and human resources programs. The guide is available online by clicking here.

June's Business Survey Prize Winner is…

Each month, the Centralina Workforce Development Board holds a drawing from Business Surveys that area businesses have completed and posted on our website.

Centralina is pleased to announce that the winner of this month’s drawing is The Timken Company in Iron Station, NC. Jill Lynch of the Timken Company completed and submitted the survey. We thank Jill for helping us with our continuous improvement feedback process! For more information about The Timken Company please visit www.timken.com.

If you haven't completed the survey, you can do so now by going to our website. It only takes a couple of minutes and by completing the survey, it will guarantee your entry into our next drawing.

For more information on the Centralina Workforce Development Employer Survey and the business services available through the Board and our local JobLink Career Centers, please contact Vail Carter at (704) 348-2710 or by email at vcarter@centralina.org.

 

Employment Statistics
 Updated Monthly on this E-Newsletter

May 2007
(Source: NC Employment Security Commission)
County
Unemployment Rate
Persons Employed
Anson
7.1%
10,519
Cabarrus
4.5%
79,176
Iredell
5.0%
74,635
Lincoln
5.0%
37,100
Rowan
7.5%
65,912
Stanly
5.1%
28,956
Union
3.8%
84,591

For more information on employment, click here



It’s An Honor to Serve!

Centralina WDB Elects New Officers

The Centralina Workforce Development Board has elected new officers for the upcoming year (July 1, 2007 to June 30, 2008). At its June 12, 2007 meeting, the Board was presented a slate of nominations and they unanimously approved Bob VanGorden as the Centralina Workforce Development Board’s Chair and Janet Hudson as the Vice-Chair.

Bob VanGorden owns BVG Consulting in Concord and has been an active Board member for four years. He has been the Centralina Workforce Development Board Chair for the past three years. Bob is also the Chair of the Board’s Executive Planning Committee and serves on the Community Relations Committee.

Janet Hudson, Human Resources Manager for Brooks Food Group in Monroe, has been on the Board for one year. Janet is a very active member of the Board’s Workforce Readiness Committee and will now also be a member of the Executive Planning Committee.

Bob VanGorden can be contacted by email at bvgconsult@vnet.net. Janet Hudson can be contacted by email at janethudson@brooksfoodgroup.com. For more information about the Centralina Workforce Development Board and how you can serve on the Board please visit our website.

Congratulations to Bob and Janet!

Thanks for the Memories!

Centralina WDB Honors Outgoing Board Members

At the recent Centralina Workforce Development Board meeting on June 12, 2007 members of the Board who were rotating off were recognized. The Board is loosing four hardworking and devoted Board members.

Jim Cook has served on the Board for 4 years, and represented the Cabarrus County Department of Social Services (DSS). Jim diligently attended the Board meetings and was an active member on the Workforce Readiness Committee. He has retired from DSS and is stepping down from the Board to enjoy his retirement. Jim was honored with the Leader, Visionary, and Friend Award by the Centralina Workforce Development Board.

Lester Galloway has served on the Board for 6 years, and represented the private sector from Stanly County. Lester owns Galloway’s 4 Wheel-Drive Center located in Richfield. He served on the Youth Council and always brought a group of youth with him that were outspoken and hard workers. Lester is stepping down to spend more time with his wife and family. Lester was honored with the Leader, Visionary, and Friend Award by the Centralina Workforce Development Board.

Marion Kinley has served on the Board for 8 years, and represented Stanly Community College. Marion is the business training coordinator and works closely with the staff of the Board for training in the community. She was an active member of the Business Performance Committee and always brought the insight of the community college and the private sector to the table. Marion was honored with the Leader, Visionary, and Friend Award by the Centralina Workforce Development Board.

Emily Behm has served on the Board for 6 years, and represented Cabarrus County Schools. She was an extremely active member on the Youth Council and served as Vice-Chair for the Youth Council since she joined the Board. Emily has a strong passion for the youth in the region and always did what she could to get youth active and informed about things going on in their region. She recently retired from Cabarrus County Schools in June and will be returning to her home town in Minnesota. Emily was honored with the Mark F. Whitley Chairman’s Award at the June 12, 2007 Board meeting.

The Centralina Workforce Development Board and staff are proud to have worked with these exceptional Board members who brought innovative ideas to the table. The Board and the staff will miss each of these Board members and wishes them the best in their future endeavors.

The professionals that serve on the Centralina Workforce Development Board are always willing to commit to helping to develop a highly skilled, productive workforce for the region. The Board appreciates the hard work and efforts that all Board members contribute. For more information on how you can help the Centralina Workforce Development Board, please visit the website at www.centralinaworks.com or contact David Hollars at 704-348-2717 or by email at dhollars@centralina.org.

Centralina WDB Approves Funding for Workforce Services

At its June 12, 2007 meeting, the Centralina Workforce Development Board approved funding for Workforce Investment Act services and local service providers for Adult, Dislocated Worker, and Youth for the upcoming program year (July 1, 2007 - June 30, 2008).

The Employment Security Commission was awarded the Workforce Investment Act Adult program contract for service in Anson, Cabarrus, Iredell, Lincoln, Rowan and Stanly counties. Union County Community Action, Inc. was awarded the Workforce Investment Act Adult program contract for Union County.

The Employment Security Commission was awarded the Workforce Investment Act Dislocated Worker program contract for service in Anson, Cabarrus, Iredell, Lincoln, Rowan, Stanly, and Union counties.

Anson County Schools was awarded the WIA Youth program contract for Anson County. Salisbury-Rowan Community Service Council was awarded the WIA Youth program contract for Cabarrus and Rowan counties. I-Care, Inc. received the WIA Youth program contract for Iredell and Lincoln counties. The Resource Development Center, Inc. received the WIA Youth program contract for Stanly County. Union County Community Action, Inc. was awarded the WIA Youth program contract for Union County.

The Centralina Workforce Development Board looks forward to working with the contactors for the upcoming program year. For more information on the Centralina Workforce Development Board’s WIA program services, please contact Patricia White at (704) 348-2718 or by email at pwhite@centralina.org.

Prep for Biotech

Rowan-Cabarrus Community College Prepares Workforce for Biotechnology

Biotechnology careers in Kannapolis maybe a few years away, but residents in the region can get a jump on training needed to secure some of the many jobs created by the site. Where can they get this training? Why at Rowan-Cabarrus Community College (RCCC) that’s where.

A new associate’s degree in biotechnology will start as early as this fall thanks to cooperative agreements with nearby partnering community colleges. The agreements will allow students to take first-year biotech courses at RCCC, but they’ll have to finish the second year of coursework at Forsyth Tech or Gaston College.

According to RCCC Biotechnology Director Ed Otto, the addition of lab space and equipment on the NC Research Campus will enable the community college to offer its own degree programs. The 60,000 square-foot facility will include 11 science and computer labs, as well as labs for biomanufacturing, bioprocessing and customized training for businesses. The building will be completed by late 2008 or early 2009.
Otto’s goal is to introduce two associate’s degree programs in biotechnology in spring 2008, so students can begin taking more lab-extensive second-year courses by the time the new building is ready. Three new staff members will start in July, including a program head for the upcoming associate’s degree program in agricultural biotechnology.

Supporting the NC Research Campus is one of the six goals outline within RCCC’s three-year strategic plan released in May. The plan will guide the college’s growth, as well as help set budget and instruction priorities.

The Centralina Workforce Development Board is proud to partner with Rowan-Cabarrus Community College and the local JobLink Career Centers in bringing Biotechnology training to the local workforce. The Board strongly believes in reaching the workforce to help prepare them for the future. A well prepared workforce is job one for the Centralina Workforce Development Board. For more information on the Centralina Workforce Development Board, please contact David Hollars at (704) 348-2717 or by email at dhollars@centralina.org.

Local Employers Recognized for Outstanding Efforts

Employment Security Commission 20th Annual Employer Awards

The North Carolina Employment Security Commission (ESC) recently held its 20th Annual Employer Awards. Employers were recognized for their outstanding efforts in finding employment for citizens in their community.

The following area employers were honored with distinction by receiving the 2007 Employer of Year Award at a lunch reception held on June 20, 2007 at the Kannapolis Country Club:

Congratulations to all the employers and many thanks for all their contributions to workforce development in the Centralina region!  And thanks to the Employment Security Commission, the local JobLink Career Centers, and their staff members for their hard work throughout the year serving all local employers.

Open Roads and Open Minds: NC’s Workforce Journey… Is upon us today. It is that time of year again as workforce professionals across North Carolina gear up for the Workforce Development Partnership Conference 2007. The conference will be held October 17-19 at the Sheraton Four Seasons Hotel and Joseph S. Koury Convention Center in Greensboro. Several featured presenters have been highlighted. They include, Steve Uzzell, Connie Pritchard, Eric Rowles, Bob Knight, John Metcalf and Beth and Frank Lengel. Also, many excellent featured workshops have been outlined. A few titles include, From Case Manager to Workforce Coach, Before You Plan the Youth Summit, The Promise of Biotechnology in NC, and Do All Roads Lead to Kannapolis?

Registration and preliminary agenda information can be found at the NC Commerce website. The early registration deadline is September 17, 2007. So don’t delay and sign up today! For more information about the NC Workforce Development Partnership Conference please contact Robbin Davis Broome, Conference Coordinator at (919) 329.5588 or rbroome@nccommerce.com.

Let Us Know

Every month the Centralina Workforce Development Board works hard trying to bring you the most up to date and innovative stories from around the region. We try to incorporate information that can be beneficial to both businesses and job seekers, as well as promote the accomplishments that are being done throughout the Centralina region.

The Centralina Workforce Development Board is currently undergoing a rebranding process and we need your help! We want to know what you think of the monthly E-Newsletter. We want to know if the articles are informative and if they are relevant to you and your organization. We’d like to know what you’d like to see more of in the newsletter, as well as what you’d like to see less of. We are looking to improve so that we can give back to you the most cutting-edge and informative newsletter out there.

Please send any comments about the monthly E-Newsletter to Emily Barnes at ebarnes@centralina.org. If you are new to the newsletter and would like to see our previous issues please visit them at www.centralinaworks.com. We thank you in advance for your feedback and your assistance in our rebranding process!


Centralina Youth Council Hosts College Foundation of North Carolina

Ms. Timeka Ruffin, regional representative, from the College Foundation of North Carolina (CFNC) gave a presentation to the Centralina Youth Council at their June 7, 2007 meeting. Timeka explained the many uses of the College Foundation of North Carolina’s website and also discussed various ways to save up for college.

The College Foundation of North Carolina is a nonprofit partnership between Pathways of North Carolina, College Foundation, Inc. and the North Carolina State Education Assistance Authority. They provide a complete and comprehensive source of information and real solutions for youth and their families when it comes to planning and paying for college.

The College Foundation of North Carolina is a very unique thing in the nation North Carolina is one of only two states in the nation that offers the specific services that the CFNC offers to their residents. The Youth Council members got a step-by-step demonstration of the online website and all of the features available.

Timeka demonstrated how to use the scholarship wizard and the college aid estimator on the website and explained how it could be beneficial to not only youth and parents but schools as well. The website offers youth a database that they can update throughout their school career. The youth can enter in any extra-circular activities that they have done each year, so if they apply for college at the end of their school career they can have all of their previous activities on file. Students can also print out a resume to mail or email to prospective colleges.

The CFNC website is constantly getting new additions, some that include more activities for youth of younger ages, going so far as to reaching elementary school students with extremely animated information about their future and college. Many of the school systems in the region are using the CFNC website so that all youth can have access to this great free service from our state.

The Centralina Workforce Development Board and the Centralina Youth Council are proud to partner with the state to offer the youth in our region services that will build them in their educational career as well as in their professional career. The Centralina Workforce Development Board and the Centralina Youth Council believe that strong healthy youth now, lead to a strong and healthy workforce tomorrow. For more information on the College Foundation of North Carolina please visit their website at www.cfnc.org or you can contact Timeka Ruffin at (704) 281-3437. For more information on the Centralina Youth Council, please contact Emily Barnes at (704) 348-2732 or by email at ebarnes@centralina.org.

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ETA Releases Toolkit for Front Line Services for Youth

The Employment and Training Administration (ETA) recently published a New Toolkit for Effective Front-Line Services to Youth. ETA has released the “Toolkit for Effective Front-Line Services to Youth,” designed to enhance the quality of youth services.

The Toolkit will be useful to professionals who assist youth in developing the knowledge and skills to succeed in a demand-driven economy. To view the toolkit please visit this website.

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Teen Health, Inc. Graduates Another Class of Teen Entrepreneurs

Teen Health, Inc. a non-profit agency serving Iredell County, has completed its eighth Teen Entrepreneur Program (TEP), which teaches high school sophomores the basics of business and helps them plan, organize, begin and run their own businesses.

Thirty-six students have completed the four-month program, which began in January 2007.

The program is based on the nationally recognized model for Teen Entrepreneurship – YoungBiz. The high school sophomores learn about business components through a series of hands-on applications. TEP participants have made their own business cards and flyers, written up sales orders, and have performed detailed financial analyses of their businesses. Each student also wrote a 14 page business plan for their business.

TEP graduates from Mooresville High School are Bradley Bennett, Antonio Cannon, Danielle Henderson, Devin Hyde, Tenneh James, Eric Jones, Jonathan Magee, and Concep Sanabria.

The Centralina Workforce Development Board and the Centralina Youth Council are a proud partner with Teen Health, Inc. and recognize the need to encourage youth today to purse entrepreneurship. The Centralina Youth Council believes that a strong and determined youth today leads to a strong and determined workforce tomorrow. For more information on Teen Health, Inc. please contact Christy Hare at (704) 872-1023. For more information on the Centralina Workforce Development Board Youth Council, please contact Emily Barnes at (704) 348-2732 or at ebarnes@centralina.org.

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Union County Holds Transition Fair Making Youth and Parents Aware of Services

Union County Vocational Rehabilitation held a Transition Fair on May 8, 2007 for handicapped school students, both physically and/or with learning disabilities. The fair was a joint project of the Union County JobLink Center, and the Union County Public Schools. The purpose was to educate “challenged” school students and their parents on the services available to them in their community.

Many students and parents from all over Union County participated in the fair. The agencies that sponsored the fair were Union County Public Schools, Union County Vocational Rehabilitation, South Piedmont Community College, Union County Department of Social Services, Union County JobLink Career Center, Employment Security Commission and Piedmont Behavioral Healthcare. The Centralina Workforce Development Board donated door prizes for the attendees.

Rosemary Johnson, Workforce Investment Act case manager at the Union JobLink Career Center and Randall Darnell, JobLink Manager, participated in the transition fair by making youth and parents aware of the services that the Union County JobLink Career Center can offer.

The Centralina Workforce Development Board is a proud partner of all of the organizations who participated in the fair. The Board is proud to help connect youth and their parents in the region with services and programs that fit their needs. For more information on the Transition Fair or services available in your community to serve your needs please contact Emily Barnes at (704) 348-2732 or by email at ebarnes@centralina.org.


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There are constantly great opportunities out in the nation and region for youth. Here are just two great programs that an outstanding youth you know may qualify for and win!

Do Something and Game Stop Offers Grants for Community Projects. Do Something and Game Stop are offering youth grants of $500 to young people ages 25 and younger. The grants are awarded to young people who have great ideas for community action projects. Applicants must be a U.S. or Canadian citizen. Grants are awarded weekly. For more information and an application please visit: www.gamestop.com.

Do Something and Plum TV Offers Grants for Social Entrepreneurs. Do Something and Plum TV is offering youth grants of $500 to young people ages 25 and younger. The grants are awarded to young people who have created sustainable projects, programs, or organizations and need funding to further the growth and success of their programs. Applicants must be a U.S. citizen. Grants are awarded weekly and winning projects will be highlighted on DoSomething.org the same week. For more information and an application, visit: www.plumtv.com/.

For more information on these opportunities please contact Emily Barnes at (704) 348-2732 or by email at ebarnes@centralina.org.

 

There's a JobLink Career Center Near You

Click here to find your nearest Centralina region JobLink Career Center

  


What's Happening in the Region?

Comings, Goings, Kudos…

  
  • Linda Greene is the new Assistant Manager at the Iredell County JobLink Career Center located in Statesville. Linda started her new position in May and will assist Jean Manall, JobLink Manager, in activities. We welcome Linda!
 
  • Congratulations go out to John Cox, Cabarrus Regional Chamber of Commerce CEO for receiving the 600 Award from Lowe’s Motor Speedway. The 600 Award is given annually to people who contribute to the motorsports industry in North Carolina.
  • The Lincoln Economic Development Association has hired Charity Pitman as a fulltime existing business manager to replace Laura Foor. Foor left to take a position with the Charlotte Regional Partnership. Pitman will devote her full attention to the retention and expansion of existing industry in Lincoln County. We welcome Charity to her new position and look forward to working with her.

  • Beverly Hedrick is now the Director of Occupational Extension at Mitchell Community College. Congratulations Beverly!

  • Lincoln County Schools have named their new superintendent; Dr. J. David Martin will begin his new position on September 1, 2008. Dr. Martin comes from Virginia where he served as superintendent for the past six years. The Board welcomes Dr. Martin to the region!

  • North Carolina Community College System President Martin Lancaster has announced his intent to retire in 2008. The Board wishes him luck in his future endeavors!

  • The Public School Forum of North Carolina recently named Phil Kirk Jr. the seventh recipient of the Jay Robinson Leadership Award. A $5,000 cash prize, donated by BB&T and an anonymous donor goes with the award, which honors the leadership and service of Dr. Jay Robinson, former school superintendent and State Board of Education chairman. Kirk followed Robinson as chairman of the State Board of Education and held that position for six years. He now serves as vice president of external relations for Catawba College. Kirk has been a guest speaker at Centralina Workforce Development Board meetings. Dr. Terry Holliday, Superintendent of Iredell-Statesville Schools was also a finalist for this award.

  • Anne Kiser executive assistant to the president of Stanly Community College will be retiring on August 1, 2007. Ms. Kiser has been in her position since 1972. Anne will be retiring to spend time with her husband. The Board wishes Anne the best!

  • Dr. Richard Brownell, president of Rowan-Cabarrus Community College announced his intent to retire in May 2008. By that time, he will have served 30 years. The Board wishes him luck in his future endeavors!

  • Graham Watt has accepted the position of director of administrative services for the Department of Commerce. Graham will guide key administrative work including fiscal, human resources, management information, procurement, training, and other relation areas that support the Division’s broad activities as well as provide support to partners and customers. Congratulations Graham!

  • Dr. Debra Morris, Principal at A.L. Brown High School in Kannapolis, and a native of New Salem, has been named North Carolina High School Principal of the Year. The National Association of Secondary School Principals, the US Department of Education, and MetLife sponsor the award. For winning the award, Morris will be honored at a special ceremony in Wilmington this fall.

• Centralina Workforce Development Board meeting
Tuesday August 14, 2007 – 4:30 PM
Cabarrus Regional Chamber of Commerce – Kannapolis

• Centralina WDB Executive Planning Committee Meeting
Tuesday July 24, 2007 – 12:00 PM
Carolina Carpet Care & Restoration – Concord

• Centralina WDB Community Relations Committee Meeting
Thursday July 26, 2007 – Time to Be Announced
Location To Be Announced

• Should I Start my Own Business
Thursday July 5, 2007 – 6:30 PM – 8:30 PM
Cabarrus Business and Technology Center – Concord
Contact: Angie Corriher at 704.216.3513

• BioDiesel Workshop
Tuesday July 10, 2007 – 6:30 PM – 8:30 PM
Rowan-Cabarrus Community College – North Campus –Salisbury
Contact: Angie Corriher at 704.216.3513

• Rowan-Cabarrus Community College – Open House
Tuesday July 10, 2007 – 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM
North Campus – Salisbury – Rowan County
Thursday July 12, 2007 – 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM
South Campus – Concord – Cabarrus County
For more information please contact: 704.216.3605.

• Self Employment and the Franchise Option
Wednesday July 18, 2007 – 6:30 PM – 8:30 PM
Kannapolis Train Station – 201 S. Main Street
Contact: Angie Corriher at 704.216.3513

• You Owe Me Big Time: collecting Delinquent Accounts
Thursday July 19, 2007 – 6:30 PM – 8:30 PM
Cabarrus Business and Technology Center – Concord
Contact: Angie Corriher at 704.216.3513

• MPACT Skilled Maintenance and Facilities Engineering Job Fair
Thursday July 19, 2007 – 4:00 PM – 7:00 PM
MPACT Learning Center, LLC – Greensboro, NC
For Businesses to attend please contact: Joel Leonard at 336.379.1444, ext. 102
For attendees: Please bring a hard copy of resume and send a soft copy to joel@mpactlearning.com

• Deciding Your business Structure: Legal Issues
Tuesday July 24, 2007 – 6:30 PM – 8:30 PM
Rowan-Cabarrus Community College – North Campus - Salisbury
Contact: Angie Corriher at 704.216.3513

• Junior Achievement is looking for volunteers and sponsors in Cabarrus & Rowan Counties:
Opportunities:
-Volunteer
-Sponsor a class or child
-Help lead the success of Junior Achievement in Cabarrus County
Contact: Stacey Richards, Junior Achievement District Manager
704.563.4858 or srichards@jacarolinas.org

NC Workforce Development Training Center Training Announcements

eTrain Course: Customer Service in Continuous Improvement Environment
Open enrollment from May 1, 2007 – December 31, 2007
Time: Anytime
Location: www.ncwdtc.com
Fee: $90.00
Contact: email Martha Barefoot at mbarefoot@nccommerce.com

eTrain Course: Planning and Documentation
Open enrollment from May 1, 2007 – December 31, 2007
Time: Anytime
Location: www.ncwdtc.com
Fee: $90.00
Contact: email Martha Barefoot at mbarefoot@nccommerce.com

Navigating a Successful Career Path
July 18, 2007
Location: Workforce Development Training Center - Raleigh
Fee: $60.00

Fee for Service: Nuts & Bolts
July 31, 2007
Location: McKimmon Center – Raleigh
Fee: $65.00

Successful Grant Writing
August 21, 2007
Location: Catawba Valley Community College, East Campus – Hickory
Fee: $90.00

Customer Service
August 29, 2007
Location: Workforce Development Training Center – Raleigh
Fee: $40.00

Assessment & Planning/Older Youth
September 10, 2007
AB Tech – Enka – Asheville
Fee: $45.00

For more information about these and other training offerings or to register for training, please visit: www.ncwdtc.com
 

Visit our website at www.centralinaworks.com to learn more about the Centralina WDB
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