CSCU and Department of Labor Announce Enrollment Program for Unemployed CT Residents

Today, Mark E. Ojakian, President of the Connecticut State Colleges and Universities (CSCU) was joined by Lieutenant Governor Nancy Wyman, and Labor Commissioner Scott Jackson to announce a college enrollment program specifically for unemployed, underemployed, or other residents looking for a different career path. Beginning now through the end of the summer, the Connecticut Department of Labor (CTDOL) will send weekly emails to anyone registered in the CTHires database with specific information about enrolling in CSCU’s Advanced Manufacturing program. Dedicated financial aid, scholarships, tuition reimbursement and CTDOL training-related funding are readily available for those who apply.

Once registrants respond to the email, a dedicated customer service representative will walk them through the entire application process, including assistance with filling out financial aid, and admissions forms. The normal $20 application fee will be waived for all who apply. Customer service representatives will be available 7 days a week by telephone or live webchat.

The goal is to enroll individuals currently looking for a job, or a better job, in CSCU’s 10-month Advanced Manufacturing certificate program.  These programs train students for careers in aerospace, defense, biomedical technology and other manufacturing fields offering full-time jobs with higher than average starting salaries. The program has 98% job placement upon completion, and often includes paid internships or apprenticeships. More information here:
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 “Often times, going back to school to get a better job is not even considered because it’s too costly or inaccessible. Yet, seven community colleges across the state of Connecticut have a 10-month certificate program with 98% job placement upon completion that is affordable and comes with financial assistance,” said CSCU President Ojakian. “Now, along with CTDOL we’re offering one-on-one assistance with the enrollment process with the goal of training as many residents as possible for jobs we know are available. The reality is our partners - employers in the advanced manufacturing industry - are looking for highly-skilled workers right now.”

“Advanced manufacturing is an important industry and economic driver, and Connecticut has long prided itself on being a national leader in aerospace and defense. I applaud Commissioner Jackson and BOR President Ojakian for creating this opportunity—it’s exactly the kind of innovative partnership that helps us keep the best talent in our state,” said Lt. Governor Wyman.

“We want to let our claimants know that if you need a job, or are looking for a better one, a certificate in Advanced Manufacturing can be earned in fewer than 10 months and can lead to a great career with one of Connecticut’s growing manufacturing companies,” said State Labor Commissioner Scott D. Jackson. “This partnership with CSCU offers new opportunities to help our residents move into well-paying careers and provides our employers with skilled employees.”

Fall classes start 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 funding opportunities 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.