Promoting from Within: Apprenticeships
Employers are increasingly seeking employees with essential skills which directly align with the VenangoREADY attributes we emphasize with students. For instance, when an employer notices an entry-level employee who exhibits a strong work ethic, takes initiative, shows drive, and functions well as a team member, they want to invest further in that employee.
The Keystone Community Education Council (KCEC) has partnered with manufacturers and educational institutions to provide training for incumbent workers, equipping them with the needed skills for advancement within their current organizations. Two apprenticeship cohorts will commence this fall: Plastics Process Technician in September and Building Maintenance Repairer in October. Each cohort will convene for one week every quarter over a two-year period.
Lance Hummer, Executive Director of KCEC, emphasizes that they are entirely driven by industry needs. The curriculum, including the sequence of topics, has been developed by the participating companies. Hummer also mentioned if there is sufficient interest from individuals in the Venango region, a local training cohort could be organized, potentially even within this year, and all the required tools and equipment would be brought to Venango to complete the course locally.
Manufacturers: If you wish to learn more about training opportunities for incumbent workers, please contact Lance Hummer at lhummer@keystonecec.org, call 814-677-4427, or visit keystonecec.org/apprenticeships. KCEC assists interested companies in receiving reimbursement for a portion of the costs.
Education Connections Calendar
11/9-10/23 – Cranberry HS: Mock Interviews
• Contact: Heather Motter, hmotter@cranberrysd.org
11/16/23 – Rocky Grove HS: College & Career Fair
• Contact: Beth Proper, bproper@staff.vgsd.org
To learn more about the Chamber’s involvement in education, join our email list at: www.venangoready.org or view the education page at: venangochamber.org/education
This article was published in the Venango Chamber’s September 2023 VenangoWorks! Newsletter.