Program Year 2024 Q2 Success Stories

On Sep 9, Summit Polymers in Lawrenceburg was recognized as one of Kentucky's newest registered apprenticeship sponsors. 

Summit Polymers provides an apprenticeship program for maintenance mechanics and currently has two apprentices assigned to the program.  The Lawrenceburg plant is the newest Summit Polymer facility starting production within the past 12 months. 

On Tuesday November 19th, Garrard County Schools was presented their Registered Apprenticeship Sponsor Certificate for their K-12 teacher apprenticeship program.  This is the first teacher apprenticeship program in the Bluegrass region and was made possible by grant funding through the Apprenticeship Building America initiative.  

Pictured during the presentation from right to left are Kalem Grasham Director of Federal Programs, Dr. Kevin Stull Superintendent of Garrard County Schools, Michael Anderson Principal for Garrard County High School, Myla Parson Senior Teacher Apprentice at Paint Lick Elementary Kindergarten, Ashlee Bolin Career Support Specialist for Garrard County Schools, and Ben Richardson Apprenticeship Workforce Consultant for the Office of Employer and Apprenticeship Services.

Bray Construction Services in Alexandria, KY is now a Registered Apprenticeship sponsor! Craig Kramer (Secretary) and Dave Trimble (Fleet/Safety Manager) invite you to explore apprenticeships in CDL Driver, Heavy Equipment Operator, and Construction Craft. Visit BRAYINC.COM to learn more and apply! #TradesNKY #CareerOpportunities #ConstructionCareers #KentuckyJobs

On December 14, 2024, Elisabeth and her family attended the Miracle on Hope Street holiday event we partnered on with Goodwill at the West Louisville Opportunity Campus. While Elisabeth initially enjoyed the festivities, she also expressed to our outreach specialist a sincere interest in finding employment to create a better life for her and her loved ones. On December 19th, she reached out to the Kentucky Career Center (KCC) and completed her Wagner-Peyser registration, marking the first step in her journey toward a brighter future. During her visit to the center, Outreach Specialist Brandon Hunter introduced Elisabeth to the

many services offered by the Kentucky Career Center as well as the wealth of employer contacts in many different employment sectors. Inspired by the possibilities, Elisabeth eagerly signed up for career coach assistance. It was at this time that she met Career Coach Marion Hammock, who listened to her goals and agreed to guide her on her career path. With Marion’s coaching and Elisabeth’s determination, the two worked together to identify opportunities and prepare for success. She updated her resume and submitted applications for employment. 

Elisabeth’s efforts paid off—she secured a position making $20 an hour, as Assistant Director at Creative Kingdom Learning Center, a role that perfectly aligns with her skills and aspirations and allows her to use her CDA in Early Childhood Education. Elisabeth’s story is a testament to the power of community, personalized support, and self-motivation. Through her partnership with the Kentucky Career Center and the Miracle on Hope Street event, she turned an ordinary day into the start of an extraordinary journey.

In November, The Spot held a graduation ceremony to honor more than 400 young adults who completed its job-readiness and self-sufficiency programs. The Spot focuses on young adults facing significant barriers such as homelessness, substance abuse, involvement in the justice system and more. You can find quotes, photos, and media coverage from the event here.

 

 

Christopher came to the Paducah Career Center after being selected to participate in the RESEA program. He was looking for assistance with finding employment. During an assessment with him, Christopher continually emphasized the importance of finding comparable employment from his prior employer. Christopher had a friendly demeanor, but you could tell he was concerned about the chances of finding a position that offered over $100k per year. He had served as Assembly Manager at his previous employer. He explained that he and his family had become accustomed to living a “certain type of lifestyle” that was in jeopardy because of the lay-off. 

As the assessment and conversation continued, Christopher began to describe his faith and how he still could not see how they would make ends meet. He disclosed that he had been fortunate to have been put in positions over the past 19 years where he earned a good wage and was able to find stable employment with only a high-school education. We were able to go over his resume and it was proof that he had the experience to find that good paying job. He had 17 years of experience as a production manager with a local company before he chose to accept the position with White. Christopher was confident that another opportunity would present itself, but he was concerned that they could possibly fall behind on bills before that happened. He was encouraged to remain positive and be persistent in applying for suitable employment. 

In the weeks that followed, multiple job leads were sent to Christopher and he was actively applying. He was contacted on December 18th for an update. He was upset as they had to cancel their trip to his sisters for Christmas due to the financial strain. He asked for prayer for him and his family. Christopher then shared that he would be looking for any type of employment after Christmas and it didn’t matter if it was the wages he was used to. Later that afternoon, Christopher called and was excited. He shared that he had just gotten an offer for an interview on the 19th and that it would be a good job if he were to get an offer. 

On December 20th the phone rang and it was Christopher who shared he had accepted a new position with Siemen’s Mobility, Inc. in Marion, KY. He shared that they presented the offer and that it was lower pay than what he expected. Christopher made a counteroffer and they accepted. He will begin starting on January 20th as the Operational Excellence Professional and would be earning a yearly salary of $100,000. He was congratulated on his early “Christmas gift”. Christopher’s faith and persistence played a huge role in him finding the position that he was looking for. His story tells us that no matter what life throws at you, you can make it through anything by being persistent and keeping faith in your abilities.

HAZARD, Ky. (WYMT) - Eastern Kentucky Concentrated Employment Program (EKCEP), the Kentucky Office of Employer and Apprenticeship Services (KEAS), the Governor’s Office of Early Childhood (GOEC), and LKLP Head Start started a new Registered Apprenticeship Program in Early Childhood Education. The program is the first of its kind in Eastern Kentucky. 12 young educators, with three years of experience of less, signed onto the program on Dec. 19. The goal of the program is to give hands on training to new educators, letting them learn from experienced professionals in their field.

Whitney Patrick is one of the apprentices. She is also an associate teacher at Beaver Elementary Head Start. She said her mentor has 20 years of experience. “I believe it will give me more resources,” Patrick said. “I believe that it will just give me information that I don’t already know, information that can really build those building blocks to teach the kids.” According to EKCEP more than 76,000 Kentuckians do not work because they do not have access to childcare options, like Head Start. A lack of childcare options along with shortages in the workforce makes this apprenticeship program a needed step in the right direction.

Jordan Stidham is a business service consultant with LKLP and Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA). He said the program will benefit employees and the children they serve.

“I appreciate more that the children of the area are going to get a higher quality of education due to the mentoring,” Stidham said. Those at the signing agree that they hope the program will catch on throughout other parts of the region. “My goal is to see it flourish and I want to see it grow,” Stidham said. “I know we just signed up twelve. I’d like to see 20, 30 in the future. I want this to be an ever growing, ever continuing thing.” LKLP Head Start has 13 centers in Letcher, Knott, Leslie, and Perry Counties. LKLP Head Start Director Justin Collett said he is excited to see what this program will do for Eastern Kentucky. “We want to provide the best quality service that we can and that’s just another step in that direction,” Collett said. Patrick said she is looking forward to learning and becoming a better educator thanks to her mentor. She said she has a love for the children she gets to see grow every day. “I just really have a passion for those little minds. They’re like little sponges that just absorb everything you teach them,” Patrick said.

The apprenticeship program is set to start in January and last for two years for the first cohort. Each of the apprentices will have 2,000 hours of paid on-the-job training with their mentors.

Unemployed and unsure of her next career move, Baylee Craig turned to Northeast Kentucky Career Center Services for help. A recommendation from a relative led her to the center, where she hoped to find guidance and support in navigating the challenging job market and discovering a fulfilling career path.

A partner in the Kentucky Career Center JobSight network of workforce centers, Northeast provides Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) services in Carter, Elliott, and Lawrence counties under contract with Eastern Kentucky Concentrated Employment Program (EKCEP). Those services include programs for adults, dislocated workers, and youth between the ages of 18 and 24 who may need assistance honing skills such as résumé building or networking with local employers or who need assistance being retrained or going to school. 

Craig’s career advisor, Amanda Hanshaw, helped her identify potential career paths in the mechanical field and provided guidance on relevant training programs. She assisted Craig with her résumé development, ensuring that her application materials effectively showcased her skills and experience. 

Through the successful completion of her work experience program, Craig gained the skills and confidence needed to excel in the automotive industry. Her dedication and passion for mechanics caught the attention of Grease Monkey Garage in Olive Hill, where she has now secured employment as a mechanic. She is thrilled to work in a field she loves and looks forward to building a successful career at Grease Monkey Garage.

In December, the Louisville Urban League hosted a graduation celebration for its latest Kentuckiana Builds class. Many graduates have already been connected to full-time positions at local construction companies. 

Kentuckiana Builds, a partnership of KentuckianaWorks and the Louisville Urban League, is a six-week training program that makes sure participants are trained, certified, and prepared for a career in the growing construction field.

The Support Staff of the Bluegrass Local Workforce Development Area Selected to Present at Upcoming SETA Conference.

The Bluegrass Workforce Innovation Board's support staff is pleased to announce their selection to present two sessions at the 2025 Southeastern Employment & Training Association (SETA) Conference, scheduled for March in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina. This marks the second time the team has been chosen to present at this prestigious event, further underscoring their desire to establish best practices in workforce development and innovation in Kentucky.

The team’s first presentation, titled “Having an Informed Board,” focused on leveraging the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) requirement for joint meetings as a platform to train board members and county officials on their roles and responsibilities and on the benefits of WIOA as a service to their communities. The session received highly positive feedback, including commendations from the President of SETA, highlighting its value in promoting informed decision-making among local leaders.

This year, the team will deliver two new sessions that showcase the ongoing work and training initiatives driving workforce development in the Bluegrass region:

Through these presentations, the Bluegrass team aims to share valuable insights and strategies that can be implemented nationwide, furthering the goal of building a stronger, more resilient workforce in both urban and rural settings.

Joshua Conley came to the KCC as a referral from Unemployment Insurance after being let go from Metronet. Participant and TDS conducted an assessment and enrolled him into the WIOA program as a dislocated worker. Participant had a goal of working in the IT sector but had no training /certifications. He enrolled with MedCertify for IT Specialist Training in April 2024. He was always ahead of his training schedule and was very serious about his training program. He finished earlier than planned obtaining his COMPTIA Security + Certification in September 2024. Resume was updated; he applied/interviewed at some companies and was offered a position with an IT Company out of Frankfort called Brooksource with a 11/6/24 start date. He is extremely grateful for the KCC services provided.

Kenra Parr was enrolled late Spring 2024 as an OSY pregnant youth needing employment assistance. She was seeking suitable employment for the purpose of being able to take care of her child. She had a long-term goal of getting her dental assistant certificate and was funded by WIOA to begin training at TMIKY. In November, she delivered her baby and went back to training within one week of delivery to complete her externship hours. After successful completion, Kendra gained employment as a Dental Assistant at White House Clinics.

John Costello came to the Kentucky Career Center seeking assistance when he relocated to Kentucky from Kansas with his wife. He had extensive customer service experience and spent his career working in retail at Hobby Lobby. However, 20 years in retail took a toll on his joints and he was no longer able to stand for long periods of time during his job. TDS N. Collier made modifications to his resume, discussed career interests, and provided information about local companies. He had previously held a CDL-B earlier in his career and thought that driving could be a good option for the next chapter. TDS N. Collier connected the participant with LexTran, who came to the Kentucky Career Center to meet with applicants. After a successful meeting, Mr. Costello went to the open interview call at the LexTran administrative offices. He was offered a position, has now completed his DOT physical and looks forward to joining their next training class beginning January 2025. He says, “I am super excited. It is a blessing to have a job lined up. I plan to make the very most out of it. Thank you for your help.”

William Conder came to the Kentucky Career Center looking for employment opportunities. He was under-employed in a construction job dependent upon the weather, which left him under 30 hours on his paychecks. He had a HS diploma, but no formal training beyond HS. William and his career coach (TDS S. Borens) sat down and figured out that a lineman job would be what he wanted to do, but without training he could not enter this type of work. Together, they set goals and in May 2024 he entered training at Somerset Lineman Center (SCC). William successfully completed his training in Lineman / CDL A Certificate. After completing training and continuing his job search, Mr. Conder was hired on with Davis Elliot in November 2024 earning a great wage and doing what he loves!

An adult female seeking services, was working as a caregiver, and she did not want to give up her part-time job.  However, she was looking for another job to supplement the income. Her interests include two things that kept resonating during an interview, which were food and caregiving.  

She said she really enjoyed cooking and helping others, but she needed specific hours as she did not want to give up her caregiving job.   She filled out an application for the Fayette County Public School (FCPS) system and staff worked with FCPS to make sure this was going to be a good fit.   She got the position and shared her big smile.   It was wonderful to help her meet her career goals and find a solution for her circumstance.    

 

The connection and partnership between the Kentucky Career Center – Bluegrass Lexington office, FCPS, and claimants has been extremely prosperous and will lead to many more opportunities in the future.   

 

We are thrilled to announce that Diane McConnell, Director of Workforce Development, and her team at the Enzweiler Building Institute and Covington Academy of Heritage Trades have secured 11 new employer partners for 2024!

These partnerships will provide valuable opportunities for our students and strengthen our commitment to workforce development in the region. 

A warm welcome to our newest partners:

• Arc Electric A/C Heating and Cooling

• BDC Electrical LLC

• Benchmark Windows Inc

• Bluegrass Electrical Consultants, Inc

• Boone County Water District

• EXPERT-ELECTRIC-SERVICE-LLC

• Ivey Mechanical

• LPM Electric Inc

• Maximum Plumbing

• Workman Heating Cooling Geothermal

• Sturm Electric (Kevin Sturm Pictured Below)

​The 2024 Fall Regional Job Fair at The Showroom in Boyle County was a great success! Organized by the Develop Danville Committee, with Kentucky Career Center (KCC) - Bluegrass as a key partner, this event marked the third successful fair hosted by the committee, each one surpassing the last in growth and participation. Event Highlights:

GILBERTSVILLE, Ky. (Dec. 10, 2024) – Three years after tornadoes that took the lives of 81 Kentuckians on Dec. 10-11, 2021, Gov. Andy Beshear visited Western Kentucky today to remember those lost and to thank those who continue the work of rebuilding.

“Today we remember the precious lives taken – each one a child of God – who will forever be missed by their loved ones. But my faith teaches me that we will see them again,” Gov. Beshear said. “Today, we also take time to thank those who have worked tirelessly over the years to help rebuild lives, homes and communities. We are rebuilding stronger because of the love and compassion you’ve shown your neighbors.”

More than 50 homes have now been dedicated by the Hope Initiative, and many of the families receiving them were in attendance. With support from the Team Western Kentucky Tornado Relief Fund, more than 221 homes have been built, significantly repaired or are under construction.

Thanks to funding from the Team Western Kentucky Tornado Relief Fund, we have been able to help more families than we ever thought possible. Thank you, Gov. Beshear for your leadership, your compassion and for keeping your promise.”

“As we observe the three-year mark after the historic tornado that tore through Mayfield, we remember the dear ones who lost their lives and remind their families that they will never be forgotten,” said Mayfield Mayor Kathy O’Nan. “We also celebrate the resiliency of the people who call Mayfield home, and we commend their determination to rebuild and recreate our community. Together we will forever be Mayfield Strong.”

In Gilbertsville, the Governor joined AT&T officials and local leaders to celebrate the company’s $3 million investment into high-speed internet since the tornadoes. The Governor trip also includes travel to his family’s hometown of Dawson Springs to visit the tornado memorial and observe a moment of silence. Finally, Gov. Beshear will attend the Habitat for Humanity home dedication in Muhlenberg County for the Oglesby family, who tragically lost their 5-month-old son in the storms.

“Through tragedy and the most difficult of times, we continue to stand together and keep our promise to be there until every structure and life is rebuilt,” said Gov. Beshear.

Today’s announcements build on the work that has been done over the years by local, state and federal leaders, nonprofit organizations and volunteers. This year, rebuilding updates include:

Funding to support families and communities over the past three years, now totals:

The Governor paid tribute to the Kentucky National Guard, Kentucky State Police, Kentucky Division of Forestry, Kentucky Fish and Wildlife, Kentucky Emergency Management, Kentucky Transportation Cabinet, local sheriff and police departments, EMS and local government leaders who went above and beyond to help others in the aftermath of the storms.

The Governor also thanked nonprofit leaders and volunteers who helped provide food, shelter and other essentials to those affected. One example of the kindness shown by volunteers was just days after the tornadoes, when First Lady Britainy Beshear organized a Christmas toy drive that resulted in more than 100,000 toys and $200,000 in gift card donations that poured in from around the country to help the kids who lost so much.

Ryan's journey with Madisonville’s JobNet Career Center began as a placement from Madisonville Community College's “Ready To Work” program. Ryan Barrett, a dedicated and ambitious individual, has achieved remarkable success with the support of the JobNet Career Center in Madisonville.  A student at Madisonville Community College, Ryan received his associate’s degree in nursing in December 2024.  Ryan also has a comprehensive plan laid out to further his education, aiming to earn a Bachelor’s in Nursing, a Master's in Public Health, and ultimately, a Doctorate in Nurse Practitioner.

Ryan's hard work and dedication have already begun to yield impressive results. He has successfully secured his first nursing job with Deaconess Health Systems, where he will be working in the ICU stepdown unit and ICU. Beyond his academic and professional accomplishments, Ryan has also distinguished himself through his leadership roles. He currently serves as the State President of the Kentucky Association of Nursing Students (KANS) and as the Chairman for the National Student Nurses Association's Council of State Presidents. Ryan's long-term goal is to become a Nurse Practitioner and a policy administrator, with a focus on drafting legislation that protects healthcare workers and patients. This ambition reflects his commitment to not only advancing his career but also to contributing to the betterment of the healthcare system. The support and resources provided by the Career Center have been instrumental in assisting Ryan achieve his goals. His success story serves as a shining example of the positive impact that the JobNet Career Center can have on individuals striving to advance their careers and make a meaningful difference in their communities.

The Workforce Innovation & Opportunity Act’s business services activities offers a wide-range of resources for employers. Successful activities occur with staff observe a problem and offer a simple solution that benefits not only to the employer, but the community at large. DAE-IL is a South Korean automotive manufacturing facility located in Murray, Kentucky. Prior to beginning production, the majority of the employees were South Korean nationals assigned to set equipment and begin the manufacturing process. The company had begun working with the West Kentucky Workforce Board (WKWB) to plan their employee recruitment activities when it was observed that South Koreans were struggling to communicate with their new American coworkers. 

WKWB staff discussed the situation with company officials and suggested that they utilize English as a Second Language teacher training to help resolve the issue, they agreed and requested that employee spouses be allowed to participate. WKWB staff reached out to Murray State University who offers both a bachelors and masters degree in English as a Second Language. Both degree programs require students to complete teacher training practicums in order to graduate. 

Classes were offered twice a week and covered conversation topics. The 60-hour curriculum encouraged Murray’s new residents to spend more time speaking English and offered practice sessions geared around language needs in the facility, as well as life in a small town. The class was deemed a success and DAE-IL has committed to continuing as a partner for ESL teacher training. 

 

Cassandra Olazabal and Chance Mason were the first Murray State University students to teach ESL classes for DAE-IL. Olazabal created the 60-hour curriculum as part of her graduate capstone project. The success of the curriculum contributed to her graduating with her Masters degree in December 2024. In this photo, the students are enjoying practicing their English skills by describing different shapes of French fries.

Lisa DeSchaaf was meeting with the Kentucky Department for Community Based Services (DCBS) to apply for food assistance when she noticed the temporary resource center that the West Kentucky Workforce Board had co-located with DCBS for the Disaster Recovery National Dislocated Worker Grant (NDWG). As someone who had lost her job and resided in Graves County, she learned that she qualified for services under that grant. 

She was referred to Camp Graves, a 501c3 non-profit that provides temporary shelter housing to those displaced by the tornados of December 2021. The organization had a job opening for an administrative assistant. She interviewed and was offered a paid-work experience through the Disaster Recovery NDWG. She started on July 24, 2024 and worked via the paid work experience through December 31, 2024. The organization was impressed with her skills and offered her a full-time employment. Today, she continues to work for Camp Graves providing resources and assistance to those in need.

EKCEP’s registered apprenticeship program has opened doors to a promising future for Lee Countian Franklin Drake IV, a recent high school graduate who is making waves in the city of Beattyville as a water treatment operator apprentice. Drake had been participating in a work program with the City of Beattyville since April, funded by the Eastern Kentucky Concentrated Employment Program (EKCEP), when Stephanie Bowman, a WIOA business services consultant, saw an opportunity. Bowman, who works with Middle Kentucky Community Action Agency as part of EKCEP’s KCC JobSight network, approached Beattyville Mayor Scott Jackson about creating a water treatment operator apprenticeship. This apprenticeship would be a collaborative effort supported by EKCEP’s Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) funding and the Kentucky Rural Water Association.

Mayor Jackson, recognizing that the number of qualified water treatment operators is drastically declining due to retirement, said he had already been looking to fill open roles in the city’s water department, making the apprenticeship opportunity a good fit. Jackson said he was impressed by Drake's work ethic and eagerness to learn and recommended him for the opportunity. Drake was immediately eager to get started. His interest in chemistry and desire for a fulfilling career in his local community made the water department a strong fit.

“I absolutely believe that what I am learning right now will definitely help in securing a career in the future,” Drake said. “There's a lot of things that go into this. A lot of technical and mathematical aspects, computer science. I believe that this is a great stepping stone into any career.”

EKCEP’s apprenticeship program uniquely benefits both employers and job seekers by offering paid positions where apprentices like Franklin receive on-the-job training as well as financial assistance for their formal education/certification. EKCEP is bridging the gap for job seekers entering into long-term careers, while also helping employers find qualified and skilled candidates to meet specific needs. 

Drake has proven to be dependable and easily trainable, Mayor Jackson noted, adding that once Drake obtains his operator’s license, he will be making good money with benefits such as insurance and retirement plans provided by the city. Mayor Jackson expressed his gratitude for the program, recognizing its potential to fill future needs for the city. "I would really say this is one of the best programs I've ever seen,” he said. “Franklin, he's exceptional. He's very smart, he's low-key, and he's very precise in what he does.”

Both gentlemen emphatically agreed that if you need a job, or you’re an employer and need qualified workers, you should check with your local Kentucky Career Center JobSight office to see what services might be available.

“I believe that they have something for everyone,” Drake said. “I asked them about the jobs they had. They said you could be out working hands-on. You could be doing physical work. You could be doing work that requires a lot of management skills. Just go and see what they offer, because they might offer something that is of interest to you.” ​

Gracelyn Duke was working at a child daycare center earning less than $15,000 a year, when she enrolled at West Kentucky Community & Technical College. She decided that she wanted to become a Registered Nurse. She completed her general education credits with a 3.75 GPA and was accepted into their RN program. She contacted the West Kentucky Workforce Board to see if she would qualify for the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act.

Her WIOA Career Coach determined that she was eligible to receive tuition assistance starting with the 2023 Spring Semester. Gracelyn did a great job of keeping her grades up and graduated in December 2024. She was offered a RN position at Jackson Purchase Medical Center which is hospital in Mayfield, Kentucky. Today, she makes $32.66 an hour and is excited to realize her dream and be working as a nurse. 

Darryl White is a US Army Veteran who had worked in manufacturing with a temporary staffing agency. He was eager to return to gain permanent employment in manufacturing but was having difficult landing a position. He visited the Kentucky Career Center in Hopkinsville and learned about the West Kentucky Workforce Board’s On-the-Job training services. Because Darryl had been long-term unemployed and resided in Christian County, he was determined eligible for the workforce board’s Disaster Recovery National Dislocated Worker Grant. Through the assistance of a Workforce Innovation & Opportunity Act career coach he began applying for manufacturing positions.

Darryl started On-The-Job Training as a Team Assembler with JTEKT an automotive manufacturing facility Hopkinsville, KY on August 26, 2024. He completed his OJT hours on OJT on October 25, 2024 and continues to work for JTEKT. 

Ms. Neill’s journey is a testament to her unwavering dedication to personal growth and resilience. She has made remarkable strides, not just in maintaining her sobriety, but also in transforming her life for the betterment of herself and her family. Her success is multi-faceted, showcasing both inner strength and a proactive approach to shaping a brighter future.

Her commitment to sobriety is not just a personal achievement; it has been a crucial foundation that enables her to tackle other challenges in life. Staying sober is no small feat, and she has demonstrated perseverance, discipline, and determination in this aspect of her life. This achievement has created a solid base for her to focus on other important areas, such as her career and family well-being.

In her professional life, Latisha has shown great dedication and work ethic. She takes pride in her job, working diligently to excel and provide for her family. However, her drive does not stop there. She is forward-thinking and has taken the initiative to pursue additional opportunities for career advancement. Being approved for the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) program is a significant accomplishment. This program will allow her to gain the skills and training necessary for a successful career, setting her on a path to financial stability and long-term success. By seeking out this training, Latisha is positioning herself to not only improve her own circumstances but also to serve as a role model for her family.

Her determination and proactive attitude are qualities that deserve to be celebrated. Latisha has proven that she is not just satisfied with where she is but is constantly striving to grow and improve. She has set a powerful example of what it means to overcome obstacles and remain focused on personal and professional development.

Both her accomplishments and her willingness to pursue further growth deserve recognition. She should take great pride in how far she has come, and her achievements serve as an inspiration to others facing similar challenges. 

Respectfully submitted, Brighton Center (NKWIB WIOA Title I contracted provider)

Mr. Ford, a ten-year USMC veteran, came into the office and was quite abrasive. He let me know that he was dealing with addiction but had been clean for the better part of a year. He also advised that because of his sobriety, he was reconnected with his 14-year-old son for the first time in a long time. He was receiving disability income, but it was just enough for his rent and his utilities, and not much more than that. 

We discussed his short-term and long-term goals, and he said that he wanted to get a part-time job, so that he could have money to spend on his son when he got to see him and to help with his extracurricular sports. His long-term goal was to have his son back with him. We discussed his work history and what types of jobs he would like to have versus what he didn’t want. Mr. Ford is not a fan of interacting with other people and wanted a job stocking shelves or driving a forklift. He advised that he didn’t know how to work on computers well enough to navigate online applications and he did not have a resume. I explained that was something that I could absolutely help him with, if he was able to provide me with his work history and his time.

I assisted Mr. Ford in preparing a resume and conducting a job search. We applied for dozens of jobs, and he received multiple call backs, but nothing ever came to fruition with them. Wednesday, September 4, 2024, Mr. Ford received a formal job offer from Wal-Mart as a shipping and receiving associate. 

We sat down together and completed all the requisite paperwork needed for onboarding. Mr. Ford left with a large smile on his face and a job that he started on September 8. The pride and accomplishment radiating from him was a sight to see. He thanked me over and over, and I assured him it was all my pleasure. He has promised to keep me updated and to stay in touch, and I hope that he does.

On November 6, community members gathered with the Kentucky Career Center – TENCO, Mt. Sterling-Montgomery County Chamber of Commerce, and the Gateway Area Development District for the ribbon cutting for the new KCC – Mt. Sterling Access Point location. 

“We are successful in this community only because of the partnerships we build through lifting each other up in every opportunity that we get, and this is just another example of that,” said Al Botts, Mayor of Mt. Sterling. “This location will provide more access for individuals who are looking to get a good job or those who need additional training to fulfill their career dreams.” 

“We are so appreciative of the teamwork of the staff, the partnerships, and all that has been done to make this move happen,” added Chris Haddix, County Judge Executive. “When you have partnerships like that and you are serving people, that’s what it’s about.” 

The Mt. Sterling Access Point is now located within the Montgomery County Health & Civic Center. This office serves as a hub for job seekers and employers, job search assistance, resume writing help, and resources for community members. The KCC – Mt Sterling Access Point is open Monday through Friday, 8 AM to 4 PM, at 108 East Locust Street.

FRANKFORT, KY. (Oct. 17, 2024) – — The Pendleton County Fiscal Court and Economic Development Office spearheaded a collaborative effort with state and local leaders to address the pending closure of Hammer Strength/Life Fitness, a Falmouth-based sports equipment manufacturer. The closure of the facility, set to affect around 100 employees, is part of a larger consolidation move to the Hammer Strength/Life Fitness facilities in Minnesota, culminating in an estimated complete shutdown in early 2025. The closure of the Falmouth facility signifies the end of a 35-year legacy in the local community.

In response, a team comprising state and local officials, educational institutions, and community groups has devised a holistic rapid response plan to support impacted workers. This initiative includes a spectrum of services such as unemployment aid, retraining programs, certifications, and counseling to facilitate smooth workforce transitions.

In an effort to bring new jobs to the community, this multifaceted approach to support Hammer Strength and its employees came as the result of an extensive meeting with local community leaders, various agencies, Kentucky Cabinet for Economic Development Secretary Jeff Noel with his team, and officials from the Kentucky Education and Labor Cabinet. Everyone unanimously acknowledged the importance of working collaboratively and aggressively to market the building, highlight the strengths of the community, and emphasize the power and benefits of a talented and dedicated workforce.“

This is an ‘all-hands-on-deck’ approach to supporting those affected by Hammer Strength’s departure,” said Senator Shelley Funke Frommeyer, R-Alexandria. “Our rallying cry has always been to take care of the hard-working people impacted in very real and tangible ways, and this group of community leaders is fully committed to doing just that.”

Kentucky State Rep. Mark Hart, a Pendleton County native and resident, noted, “We want to provide every state resource that we have available to help the Hammer Strength employees find other career opportunities and gainful employment. In addition, we want to explore all available options to fill this void and bring new business to Falmouth and Pendleton County.”

Over the coming months, the rapid response team will partner with Hammer Strength management to organize a local job fair, offering comprehensive resources such as resume writing assistance, skills training, certifications, and access to potential employment opportunities through connections with KCTCS and the Northern Kentucky Career Center.

In an effort to support Hammer Strength employees affected by recent changes, the Pendleton County Public Library, Pendleton County Schools, KCTCS and the Northern Kentucky Career Center are joining forces to provide valuable job connections. Leveraging their extensive employer network, KCTCS and the Career Center will host a reverse career and resource job fair at the end of October.

The upcoming job fair will bring together a variety of employers and career resources to assist Hammer Strength employees in exploring new opportunities. Representatives from KCTCS, Northern Kentucky Career Center, and potential employers will be present at the fair to engage in discussions and offer insight into future career prospects.

Additionally, a second job fair is slated for early 2025, with more details to be announced. This ongoing collaborative effort aims to provide ongoing support and resources to aid Hammer Strength employees in their career transitions.

Pendleton County Judge Executive David Fields emphasized the county’s dedication to provide all necessary services and resources to aid employees in transitioning to new jobs. “We value the commitment that the Hammer Strength employees have made to Pendleton County – some with more than 30 years of employment, he said. “It is our top priority to bring to them all the available services and resources needed to help them transition into new jobs.”

The Pendleton County Economic Development office is collaborating with Hammer Strength and the Kentucky Cabinet for Economic Development to explore opportunities for promoting the 15-acre property and its building to prospective employers. Tami Vater, the economic development director for the Pendleton County Fiscal Court, affirmed the community’s dedication to actively recruit new industry and potential employers by highlighting the area’s skilled workforce capabilities to attract new businesses. The collaborative effort aims to facilitate a seamless transition for the workforce and the community, focusing on attracting new employers while providing essential support to employees during these challenging times.

TENCO hosted two dynamic career and resource fairs, where job seekers and community members were able to meet with top industry employers, educational institutions, and community resources from across our region. With one held in Ashland, and the other in Morehead, both events were fostered towards individuals seeking second-chance employment as well as the opportunities and resources available to them within their city and across the region. 

On November 14, KCC – TENCO partnered with the Northeast Chamber of Commerce to host the inaugural Northeast Kentucky Second Chance Employer & Resource Fair. Bringing together over 20 businesses, resources, and educational resources to connect individuals seeking new opportunities. To support second chance and foster inclusivity in the workforce, the Ashland Train Depot filled with nearly 50 job seekers eager to explore new pathways to employment, education, and personal growth, despite their previous struggles. Resource organizations were on hand to provide guidance on essential services, such as financial planning and legal support. 

Just five days later, KCC – TENCO and the Morehead Goodwill Opportunity Center partnered to host the Season of Success: Fall Career & Resource Fair. Employers from various industries were able to showcase current job openings and engage with the over 70 job seekers who came. Community organizations provided resources, ranging from housing and healthcare to financial and education assistance, ensuring attendees had access to the comprehensive support available across our region. A key feature of this event was the presence of second-chance employers, offering opportunities to individuals looking to rebuild their lives and re-enter the workforce. 

By fostering collaboration between job seekers, community organizations, and various industry employers, these events embodied the power of collective effort to break barriers and provide support to those on their path to success!

​Women are still a small minority among workers in the contraction industry. However, the Green River Building Industry Association – formerly the Homebuilders Association of Owensboro – wants to work toward lessening that disparity, which led to it hosting its first “Women in Trades” career fair at its office on Wathen’s Crossing.

Adam Hicks, executive officer of the association, said the event developed out of a brainstorming idea with Owensboro Public School officials.

“Just looking around the industry in our community, there aren’t a lot of females in the construction world; I know they’re out there, but the (men-to-women) ratio is crazy high,” he said. “But while women earn about 81% of what ​a man makes in America, which is a big wage gap, in the construction industry there is no wage gap – women make 99.1% of what men make.