August Programs for Job Seekers at the Machias and Calais CareerCenters

July 29, 2014

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: July 29, 2014 Contact: Nichole Jamison, Washington County CareerCenters, 255-1900; Julie Rabinowitz, 621-5009

WASHINGTON COUNTY?End the summer with a new career! For those who are looking to make a change in careers or get a new job, the Machias and Calais CareerCenters will be offering a variety of programs for job seekers this August.

?August is a great time to prepare for the uptick in hiring that comes with the arrival of fall,? said Governor Paul R. LePage. ?CareerCenters can help both individuals who need a job and businesses that need to hire workers. Now is the ideal time for job seekers to get a jump start on new training opportunities and upcoming job fairs.?

CareerCenters, part of the Maine Department of Labor, offer a variety of no-charge services to help people find employment or upgrade skills. Each center provides several public-access computer workstations with Microsoft Office software, resume writing and cover letter software, Internet access and O?Net software for skills assessment. CareerCenters can assist businesses, recruit employees and can offer workshops at their worksite at no cost to the business.

To learn more, like the Washington County CareerCenters on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/pages/Washington-County-CareerCenters/606111642755982 . The following workshops and programs will be held at the indicated CareerCenters. All events require pre-registration in person or by phone.

GATEways to Employment: Group Access to Employment Session August 6, 2 p.m., Calais CareerCenter; August 28, 9 a.m., Machias CareerCenter

Is your job search in need of a boost? Are you looking for a way to stand out to a potential employer? Do you want to be at a significant advantage from other job seekers in today's competitive work/job seeking environment? GATEways to Employment is a great opportunity for you! Come and share your ideas and experiences with other job seekers. This is a great way to increase your job search success, to gain insight on the latest job search techniques, and to maximize your potential. CareerCenter is here to help you find your key to success! To register call Michelle at 1-800-292-8929.

Essentials of College Planning presented by MEOC August 5, 10 a.m., Machias CareerCenter

This workshop will survey the basic steps for successful college enrollment. The session will discuss college and trade school options in our region, entrance requirements, readiness and transitional issues of adult students, admissions procedures and financial aid. During the session we will review a typical admissions application, request admissions materials and financial aid information from prospective colleges for each participant, and, if appropriate, will complete the financial aid form. This session is designed to set the stage for future enhanced workshops or individual counseling sessions. Participants should bring 2012 1040 tax form (or income estimates for 2012) and any high school/GED and college transcripts. To register for a MEOC Workshop call 1-800-281-3703.

Is Starting a Business For You? presented by CEI August 11 and 18, 9 to 11:30 a.m., Machias CareerCenter

This workshop is geared specifically to help people who are considering starting their own business - now or in the future. Information will be given about the characteristics of successful entrepreneurs, issues to consider before and during the start-up phase, and tools and assistance available in Washington County and beyond. Other topics addressed include the importance of business planning, marketing basics, and business funding sources. While there is no cost for either workshop, only 20 seats are available for each session so advanced registration is required. To register, contact Dodie Emerson at 255-1933 or Atrica.S.Emerson@Maine.gov.

The CareerCenter, located at 53 Prescott Drive, Suite 1 in Machias and One College Drive in Calais, is open 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday. More information is available on the CareerCenter website, http://www.mainecareercenter.com .

Maine CareerCenters are an equal opportunity provider. Auxiliary aids and services are available upon request to individuals with disabilities.

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