CSCU and CTDOL Launch Next Phase of College Enrollment Program for Connecticut Veterans

Mark E. Ojakian, President of the Connecticut State Colleges and Universities (CSCU), was joined by Lieutenant Governor Nancy Wyman, U.S. Senator Richard Blumenthal and Connecticut Department of Labor (CTDOL) Commissioner Scott Jackson to announce an Advanced Manufacturing enrollment program specifically for veterans who register with CTDOL. To be eligible, veterans must register at www.cthires.com

Dedicated financial aid, scholarships, tuition reimbursement and training-related funding are readily available for veterans who apply. Connecticut state law also provides tuition waivers for honorably discharged veterans. Connecticut veterans currently looking for a job, or a better job, are encouraged to enroll in CSCU’s Advanced Manufacturing certificate program.

The 10-month program trains students for careers in aerospace, defense, biomedical technology and other manufacturing fields offering full-time jobs with higher than average starting salaries. CSCU’s advanced manufacturing program has 98 percent job placement upon completion, and often includes paid internships or apprenticeships. More information is available here {filedir_7}makeithere and here http://bit.ly/2asSpGz

Weekly emails will be sent to all veterans who register at www.cthires.com Once they respond, a dedicated customer service representative will guide them through the entire application process, including assistance with filling out financial aid and admissions forms. Customer service representatives will be also available seven days a week by telephone or live webchat.

“Connecticut veterans protected us. Let’s protect their futures. In less than a year, our veterans can not only have a job, but a start a career by completing one of our Advanced Manufacturing programs,” said CSCU President Ojakian. “In addition to a variety of financial assistance available to those who enroll, Connecticut state law provides tuition waivers for all honorably discharged veterans for any credit-bearing courses. Our hope is that as many veterans as possible take advantage of these opportunities.” “This initiative will expand employment opportunities for veterans and strengthen our workforce and our economy,” added Lieutenant Governor Wyman.

“Education and job training are critical to building and retaining a talented labor force. I applaud President Ojakian and Commissioner Jackson for their collaboration, and thank all of our partners for getting these important resources to our veterans.” Senator Richard Blumenthal also praised CSCU’s Advanced Manufacturing program: "Our nation’s veterans are returning from war with unparalleled motivation and professionalism—a work-ethic that prepares them for success in careers at home. Yet, shamefully, more than half of post-Sept. 11 veterans will experience a period of unemployment upon returning home—an unacceptable statistic that we must fight to correct. I applaud the Connecticut Department of Labor and the Connecticut State Colleges and Universities for this powerful partnership to provide veterans the skills and training they need to find good jobs in manufacturing here in Connecticut—a win-win for veterans and businesses.”

“Many of our military veterans return to civilian life with strong technical skills that can benefit Connecticut companies, and an Advanced Manufacturing certificate helps to ensure good jobs and great careers for our vets,” said State Labor Commissioner Scott D. Jackson. “Manufacturing employers need skilled, professional and motivated individuals, and veterans are one of the greatest resources we as a state can offer in order to expand our economy and strengthen our communities.”

“Veterans possess qualities of loyalty, integrity, and respect that are enhanced from their training and military service,” said CT Veterans' Affairs Commissioner Sean M. Connolly. “These values further distinguish veterans from their peers and make them an asset to the work force in the state. Cooperative efforts such as these with CSCU, DOL, and the unwavering support from Connecticut’s administration enables veterans the opportunity to pursue meaningful employment in the competitive field of manufacturing in a state known for its quality care of its veterans.”

Fall classes start on August 29, at CSCU’s seven Advanced Manufacturing Technology Centers in Bridgeport, Danielson, Enfield, Manchester, Middletown, Naugatuck, and Norwich. However, CTHires registrants can also enroll for the spring 2017 semester. Individual Advanced Manufacturing courses are also available at the five other community colleges located around the state. Additional financial assistance may be available through State of Connecticut workforce investment partners including: Capital Workforce Partners, Northwest Regional Workforce Investment Board, The Workplace, Eastern CT Workforce Investment Board, and The Workforce Alliance.