Embarking on a rewarding career in nursing just got more accessible with the Nursing Careers Pathway (NCP) program, an initiative led by The WorkPlace in collaboration with Capital Workforce Partners. The NCP program facilitates a progression for licensed Certified Nursing Assistants (CNA) and Licensed Practical Nuses (LPN) looking to advance their careers and open doors to broader employment opportunities.

CNAs looking to advance their careers can choose from multiple nursing tracks based on their goals. Options include a CNA to LPN track, a CNA to Advance Degree Nurse (ADN) track to become a registered nurse, or a Bachelor of Science Nursing (BSN) track to earn a bachelor degree in nursing and become a registered nurse. Similarly, LPNs can advance towards registered nurse status through a variety of programs that support rewarding career paths.

Beyond career tracks, the program offers a robust support system, including tuition assistance, needs-based vouchers for childcare and transportation, and job placement assistance. NCP prioritizes professional development and offers mentorship and training on crucial topics like DEI, ensuring a smooth and successful entry into the dynamic Connecticut nursing workforce. To learn more about the NCP program, reach out to Leigh Roberts, Vice President, Workforce Development, lroberts@workplace.org

The WorkPlace is excited to announce the launch of The Sound Effect, our brand new in-studio podcast training in partnership with Soundview Community Media TV. This 8-week program aims to guide youth through creating, launching, and promoting their very own podcast.

Participants will learn the fundamentals of media and production by utilizing real studio equipment and technology at Soundview's Stratford, CT studio. Through hands-on projects every Wednesday and Thursday afternoon, students will develop skills in content planning, recording, editing, and promotion.

Upcon completion participants will have the essential skills to produce engaging, meaningful podcast content for a young adult audience. They'll also create a social media calendar to promote episodes on platforms like Instagram, Twitter and TikTok. This allows them to directly engage with listeners, encourage discussion, and incorporate feedback into future show topics.

With the rise of podcasting and social media, anyone can share their voice with the world. The Sound Effect Podcast gives youth a chance to amplify theirs. Spots are limited - learn more and apply today using the button below!

The Platform to Employment (P2E) Re-Entry program is dedicated to assisting formerly incarcerated individuals and is hosting monthly information sessions across Connecticut starting in February. These sessions aim to provide valuable insights into the program's services and how to enroll.

Sessions will take place on the 1st Monday of each month in Ansonia, the 2nd Monday of each month in Norwalk, and the 2nd Wednesday of each month in Waterbury. Sessions run from 10:00am to 12:00pm.

These information sessions are open to individuals impacted by the criminal justice system who are seeking employment, training, and other related services. Attendees will have the opportunity to learn about the diverse range of supports offered by the P2E Re-Entry program, including resume building, interview preparation, occupational skills training, job placement and more. The sessions are designed to facilitate engagement, allowing participants to ask questions and engage with staff on a one-on-one basis.

Future locations for information sessions include Danbury, New Haven, Norwich, and Hartford. For a comprehensive schedule of P2E Re-Entry information sessions, including locations please refer to our website's calendar of events using the button below. If you have any questions or to register, please contact Mario Sarro, Director, MSarro@workplace.org.

Career ConneCT provides residents in Connecticut with free training in high demand careers. The program is currently enrolling for an Intro to Manufacturing course beginning late February 2023 at Connecticut State Community College Housatonic. This program provides the foundation and skills needed for an entry-level precision manufacturing role. Participants will gain knowledge in key areas like metrology, machining, quality control, and workplace safety while gaining hands-on experience using state of the art technology. Career ConneCT provides residents with no-cost training for high-demand careers.

With Connecticut's long history of manufacturing excellence across aerospace, submarines, defense, advanced technology, and more, there are many promising local careers to be had. Learn more about a career in manufacturing below.

Ready to get started? Contact Deb Oliver DOliver@workplace.org to enroll.

Searching for career-focused training opportunities? Discover the wide array of upcoming trainings offered by The WorkPlace. Participants will benefit from personalized career coaching, guidance in creating impactful resumes and mastering interview techniques, dedicated assistance in job search and placement, and access to additional supportive services tailored to individual needs. Take charge of your career trajectory with The WorkPlace.

Wayne Brown is a 57-year-old New Haven resident who has overcome major health challenges to get back to work doing what he loves. After decades of working as an independent security guard, Wayne's life was upended in April 2022 when he underwent a heart transplant. He had to give up his job during the recovery process, leaving him without housing, and was forced to move into a boarding house.

Wayne refused to give up. Once medically stable, he connected with social services and was referred to the MaturityWorks program. Wayne threw himself into the training program and started rebuilding his skills by providing office support at MaturityWorks before transitioning to on-site training at Sunrise Café. Wayne impressed the staff with his dedication and positive attitude. Both worksites were a great way for Wayne to rebuild his interpersonal skills and gain additional administrative skills. Eventually, MaturityWorks staff helped him secure a position with Arrow Security.

Now, Wayne is back doing what he loves - providing security for Park City Communities through Arrow Security. Wayne's perseverance and hard work in the face of adversity make him an inspirational example of how MaturityWorks can help older adults overcome barriers and successfully return to the workforce. Wayne demonstrates that with motivation and grit, older Americans can restart their careers and regain their independence.

Visit workplace.org/calendar for a full list of our events.

Learn about community health worker training opportunities.

For more information, click here.

American Job Center - Ansonia

4 4th Street Ansonia, CT 06401

For more information, click here.

Norwalk City Hall

125 East Avenue, Norwalk CT 06851

For more information, click here.

The WorkPlace Satellite Office

109 Watertown Ave, Waterbury CT 06708

For more information, click here.

For more information, contact Tiffany Johnson.

You can make a very real impact on the lives of others with a donation to The WorkPlace. Your contribution promotes racial equity and helps provide unemployed people with training to obtain the skills they require to secure employment, increase earnings, and better support diverse communities and families. The WorkPlace is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization.