Preparing individuals for general and ICT entry-level careers & IC3 Certification For low-income individuals with barriers to employment.

Outcomes

• Certification: IC3 Certification (Certiport, Inc) – three-part test in computing fundamentals, key applications, living online.
• Computer skills: Microsoft Office Suite, email, internet usage and Internet job search skills.
• Job Readiness: Basic computer skills for entry-level and mid-level work (administration, supervisory, management, etc.); preparation for more advanced technical study (A+ certification.)

Program Structure

• 15 hours per week for 22 weeks.
• Curriculum divided into 3 modules over 22-week training.
• IC3 Certification (Certiport, Inc) exam taken at end of each module .
• Free; or fee based tuition with scholarships for low income individuals.
• Job support and placement assistance.
• Open and closed enrollment models.

Program Alternatives

• Basic computer skills may be offered without IC3 Certification.
• Basic computer skills and job search support may be embedded with other programs.
• Open enrollment or drop-in access to program segments.
• Drop-in enrollment.
• Individual program modules that allow clients to learn specific program skills (e.g., working with Excel™ spreadsheets.)
• Targeted programs for community segments: Youth, School/After School, Seniors, Re-entry, Housing Authority residents, Families .
• Spanish-speaking (or other language) Instructor explains English curriculum and concepts in the second language.
• Contract with experienced training providers to conduct training program.

Client Prerequisites

• Education/literacy- 6th grade reading level; English proficiency may be required.
• Dexterity
• Basic technical competency (ability to use mouse and keyboard.)

Challenges

For clients

• 14 to 22 week commitment.
• Classroom based learning environment.
• Training time unpaid.
• Follow-through for job placement.

For the organization

• Facility and technical equipment.
• Technical support for learners at different levels of understanding.
• Support necessary to complete enrollment .
• After-hours support for evening classes.
• Job support and placement assistance

Elements of Success

• Minimum Class: 16 hours/week for 14 weeks.
• Infrastructure (for class of 20): 1 classroom, 20 student computers, 1 instructor computer, server/network environment, lab environment.
• Staff: 1 Program Manager (0.25 FTE), 1 Recruiter (0.5 FTE), 1 Career Advisor (0.5 FTE), 1 Director of Training (0.10 FTE); instructor (1.0 FTE)
• Marketing: Outreach at Career Centers, CBO’s, One Stops and other social service agencies; schools (for youth programs); emails, flyers, advertising and word of mouth

Sources of Funding

Contributed

• Corporations.
• Foundations.
• Government.
• Local (City/County.)
• State.
• Individuals.

Earned Income

• Fees
• Other earned income.