Educational Opportunities

• Job Seeker Technology Awareness - During this course, students will be introduced to the parts of a computer, and the various types of computers.  They will learn to set up and send e-mails, with and without attachments.  They will receive an overview of how to prepare their resume for the internet, as well as, tips for completing an online application for employment.  Students will learn how to conduct online job searches, how to respond to an online job posting, and how to post their resume online.
• Communications for the Workplace - During this course, students will explore their communication style, in addition to choosing the most effective method of communication.  Students will gain an understanding of two-way communication and the barriers.  The keys to good and effective listening will be discussed, along with giving and accepting feedback and constructive criticism.  Individuals will work on the development of a positive self-image, and learn communication techniques while conducting employment activities.
• Job Search Skills - During this course, students will be exposed to community search and career change resources.  They will have an opportunity to acknowledge and share their current situation, as well as gain a better understanding of today's work realities.  Students will learn the tools that will help make them more marketable in today's workforce.
• Pathways to Employment - During this course, students will have the opportunity to work through the emotions of job loss, and everything associated with job loss.  They will learn how to get organized for their job search by completing an interest inventory, developing a plan, and identifying personal strengths and transferable skills.  They will learn various search methods, and how to identify and utilize their network.  Students will gain an understanding of the total employment process, from searching and applying, to interviewing, and receiving an offer.
• Employment Resolutions - During this course, students will gain an understanding of what employers are actually looking for today, versus what they have to offer.  They will learn tools for conflict resolution and effective leadership, along with the sources of stress and how to effectively manage stress.  Students will gain knowledge of, not only how to search for a job, but also how to manage their career.
• Winning Resumes - During this course, students will learn how to create a resume either from a blank page or from a template, utilizing Microsoft Word.  They will learn the parts, format, and function of a resume, and the difference between a chronological and functional resume, as well as, the difference between a print resume and an e-resume.  During the resume preparation, students will identify their personal strengths and transferable skills to be included on their resume.  They will learn to save, print, and e-mail their resume.  In addition to resume completion, students will also receive instruction on cover letters, and thank you letters.
• Employability Skills - This course consists of 10 learning topics.  Students will discuss the six areas of wellness and how they each contribute to employability.  They will identify stressors in their lives, and learn how to deal with them.  Included will be self-assessments, as well as steps to maintaining self-esteem.  A review of what employment looks like today, and the steps for becoming employed, such as proper application completion, resumes and cover letters, and how to actually search for a job.  Students will work on their communication skills, including an interview role play.  They will learn about business etiquette and work ethic in the workplace.
• Money Smart - This course consists of 11 modules.  It provides students with information about selecting the right type of financial institution, as well as the right type of account.  It teaches students about various types of loans, and how to maintain and manage their credit, which affects their loan options.  Money Smart teaches students the value of budgeting and how to prepare and follow a budget, to include saving their money, and managing it effectively.  It provides students with information about identity theft and how to manage risks.  Students will be able to make more informed decisions about home ownership and whether or not it is right for them.  It provides students with the tools needed for financial recovery.
• PC Skills for Today's Worker - This course provides students with a basic introduction to internet searches and e-mail functions.  It provides students with lessons in Excel, Word, and PowerPoint.  At the end of the course, students should be able to create and manipulate data in a spreadsheet.  They should be able to create and revise word processing documents, as well as create an electronic presentation.  This course should enable students to complete an online employment application, attach a resume to an e-mail, and search for jobs on the internet.
• Skills for Employment - This course consists of 11 learning topics.  Students will discuss the six areas of wellness (including financial wellness and budgeting), and how they each contribute to employability.  They will identify stressors in their lives, and learn how to deal with them.  Included will be self-assessments, as well as steps to maintaining self-esteem.  A review of what employment looks like today, and the steps for becoming employed, such as proper application completion, resumes and cover letters, and how to actually search for a job.  Students will work on their communication skills, including an interview role play.  Students will discuss leadership behaviors and self-directed work.  They will learn about business etiquette and work ethic in the workplace.
• NC Career Readiness Certification - The Career Readiness Certification (CRC) was established in the State of North Carolina in 2006, and confirms to employers that individuals possess basic workplace skills.  It is a portable credential that promotes career development and skill attainment in the areas of Reading, Applied Math, and Locating Information.  The NC CRC is based upon WorkKeys, a nationally recognized, skills assessment tool developed by ACT Inc.  The three possible certification levels of the NC CRC are Gold, Silver, and Bronze.
• New HRD Career Exploration Courses - Looking for your next career and not quite sure in what direction to go?
  Would you like to know if your interests and skills complement one another?
  Are you interested in finding out what careers might match your interests?
  Would you like to have the opportunity to "perform tasks" associated with a selected career path?
  If any of these questions have sparked your interest, check out our website for the opportunities in career exploration utilizing our MECA system!