In July 2015, the US Department of Labor awarded the South Carolina Department of Employment and Workforce a $1.6 million demonstration grant to develop two satellite American Job Centers in North Charleston, SC under a program called Education 2 Employment.
The job centers will offer six week pre-employment programs that combine both classroom instruction and work-based training opportunities. Participants will enhance their job-readiness with opportunities for job training and paid work experience in high-growth industries including manufacturing, information technology, transportation/logistics, healthcare, specialty trades, and hospitality.
Specific programs include GED Classes, job training workshops, paid internships, WorkKeys testing, resume writing, interview skills exercises, and other counseling services.
Targeting at-risk youth and young adults, program eligibility is extended to individuals ages 16 to 29 who live in North Charleston and are either unemployed or not in school. Felons are also accepted.
The second job center will be located on Remount Road and is currently under development. Both centers will be operated by the Berkeley-Charleston-Dorchester Council of Governments with oversight from the Trident Workforce Development Board.
Individuals inquiring about Education 2 Employment or wishing to participate can visit the job center or call 843-202-0909 starting Wednesday, September 23. Classes will begin September 28.