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Mobile Works Annual Report 2012-2013

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Learn how your workforce investment dollars were spent during the last program year.
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Page 1: Mobile Works Annual Report 2012-2013
Page 2: Mobile Works Annual Report 2012-2013

It’s a new year of possibilities. Even though 2012 brought some challenges, Mobile has positioned itself to become an economic powerhouse in the manufacturing and shipbuilding industry. Announcements such as Airbus building its fi rst U.S. based manufacturing facility at Brookley Aeroplex creating over a 1,000 jobs and Safran selecting Mobile as home to become the fi rst supplier for Airbus gives job seekers and the community hope. Likewise, Austal Shipbuilding announced new contracts with the Navy and will hire over 1,500 people. As the fi rst month of the New Year draws to a close, anticipation builds on what lies ahead for Mobile County. In order for continued economic growth, working together is key. Mobile Works is committed to providing resources to help stimulate Mobile’s economy through the creation of training programs and partnerships with area businesses.

Building relationships and partnerships are the operative words as Mobile Works moves forward for 2013. In fact, efforts are in place to ramp up our training programs. During the 2011-2012 fi scal year over $5 million dollars was invested towards training efforts. Our goal is to inform and encourage the business community to consider using our programs for their hiring needs. Areas of focus include high growth, high wage occupations for the unemployed and underemployed in aviation, maritime, healthcare, advanced manufacturing, technology and other areas. Likewise, we are committed to supporting small businesses who would like to build their workforce. We recognize that our success is not possible without the support of our business partners who added jobs to support Mobile’s economy. In closing, Mobile Works could not achieve these efforts without the support of our Workforce Investment Board who tirelessly give of their time and resources to support our programs and services. Together we are committed to building relationships, team work and growing Mobile’s economy.

Samuel Jones, Mayor, City of MobileSamuel Jones, Mayor, City of MobileMerceria Ludgood, Commissioner, Mobile CountyMerceria Ludgood, Commissioner, Mobile County

Board OfficersBoard Officers

Chairman, Richard Davis; Mobile Airport AuthorityChairman, Richard Davis; Mobile Airport AuthorityVice-Chairman, John Moses; Bay ChevroletVice-Chairman, John Moses; Bay Chevrolet

Treasurer, Charlotte Kopf, Associated General Contractors-Mobile Sectioneasurer, Charlotte Kopf, Associated General Contractors-Mobile SectionTreasurer, Charlotte Kopf, Associated General Contractors-Mobile SectionTreasurer, Charlotte Kopf, Associated General Contractors-Mobile Section

Board MembersBoard Members

CCarolyn Akers, Mobile Area Education Foundation; Tommie Anderson, Franklin Primary Health rolyn Akers, Mobile Area Education Foundation; Tommie Anderson, Franklin Primary Healtharolyn Akers, Mobile Area Education Foundation; Tommie Anderson, Franklin Primary Health arolyn Akers, Mobile Area Education Foundation; Tommie Anderson, Franklin Primary Health

Jeff Robbins, State Farm Insurance; John Sipple, Southern Oil Exploration Inc.; Charles Story, eff Robbins, State Farm Insurance; John Sipple, Southern Oil Exploration Inc.; Charles StorJeff Robbins, State Farm Insurance; John Sipple, Southern Oil Exploration Inc.; Charles Story,Jeff Robbins, State Farm Insurance; John Sipple, Southern Oil Exploration Inc.; Charles StoryCommunity Volunteer; Russell Wimberly, South Alabama Regional Planning Commissionommunity Volunteer; Russell Wimberly, South Alabama Regional Planning CommissionCommunity Volunteer; Russell Wimberly, South Alabama Regional Planning Commissionommunity Volunteer; Russell Wimberly, South Alabama Regional Planning Commission

president’s president’s MessageMessage

page 2

Sydney G. raine

Page 3: Mobile Works Annual Report 2012-2013

Mobile Works partnered with twenty six (26) local businesses to offer On-the Job Training as a resource to help area industries expand their workforce. Mobile Works paid at least 50% of the wages associated with training eligible dislocated workers and adults for a period of at least 11 weeks. OJT services were provided to 43 individuals via WIA and an additional 14 job seekers via National Emergency Grant (NEG) funding. Participants gained new skills while earning income.

Costs for assessment and core services for OJT enrollees may be slightly higher per individual trained. This service is individualized to match job seekers with OJT opportunities while seeking to meet expectations of both the business owner and the job seeker. Outcomes are generally positive and retention in placements is higher for trainees due to the availability of income right away.

In fact, for profi t companies and non-profi t agencies benefi ted from this program. Areas of training included professional, semi-professional positions as well as trades and manufacturing jobs. Qualifying companies provided a worker’s compensation policy, a federal tax identifi cation number, offered full time employment and paid at least $9 per hour.

On the Job On the Job Training program Training program

has stellar yearhas stellar yearMMobile Works partnered wobile Works partne

esses to offer On-the Job Trs to offer On-the Jories expand their workforces expand their workf

of the wages associated withhe wages associated rs and adults for a period oand adults for a perio

provided to 43 individuals vovided to 43 individuars via National Emergency Gvia National Emergencipants gained new skills whipants gained new skills wh

2011-2012 ojt training business partners2011-2012 ojt training business partnersAll Clean Filters

all clean filters Al Trans Services Alabama Insurance company Bay Area Food Bank Bobcat of Mobile. Brock Safety Group

Cna Construction Commonwealth Bank dip check exchange E.I.dupont Hiller company

Horizon Shipbuilding Ideal Marine Services, Inc. Kimberly Clark Dr. Marcia Littles Mitsubishi Polysilicon Mobile Ship Chandlery

McGriff Treading, Inc. Ogletree Law Firm Serv Pro Southern Truck and Equipment ST Aerospace

Southern Style Painting Vision Partners

Walashek Industrial and Marine Wonderland Express

ojtpage 3

(con’t on page 5)(con’t on page 5)

John Simon. OJT participant and Bama Pest Con-trol technician performes routine maintenance at the Alabama Career Center.

When life happens, When life happens, make lemonademake lemonade

A year, 365 days may breeze by for some people. But, for John Simon, it felt like an eternity. Three hundred sixty-fi ve days without a job and being unemployed was very tough Simon expressed. For over a decade he worked as a contractor and supervisor for a local cable company until his job was eliminated due to technology upgrades. “Not working left me embarrassed and speechless,” Simon stated.

Although he was devastated that his job was phased out, he decided to retool, regroup and make lemonade out of the lemons life had thrown him. Simon began to study nursing at a local college and quickly learned that the healthcare fi eld was not his niche. Therefore, he decided to focus on a job that allowed him to capitalize on his strengths-helping people, working with his hands and working outside.

Simon heard of the On-the-Job Training program (OJT) and connected with Mobile Works’ OJT Coordinator, Lynn Krueger. He introduced him to the program which pays employers at least 50% of the wages associated with training eligible new hires for a period of at least 11 weeks.“This program was key to helping me fi nd employment,” Simon said.

Page 4: Mobile Works Annual Report 2012-2013

Mobile Works shared exciting news for the unemployed at a news conference on Wednesday, August 8 at the Alabama Career Center. Mobile Works announced it had partnered with TriNova, Volunteers of America and Bishop State to provide short-term skills training scholarships totaling $872,581 for dislocated workers. These scholarships, funded by the Department of Labor’s National Emergency Grant (NEG) were made available to individuals who have been unemployed for 27 weeks or more, lost their job due to company closure, were self-employed or a displaced homemaker. Training programs were available in industrial automation instrumentation, nursing assisting, welding and personal care assisting. “This training was a new start for those unemployed and wanting to position themselves to compete for

jobs in Mobile County,” said Sydney Raine, Mobile Works president. Also, a Dislocated Worker Training Fair was held Saturday, August 9 from 9:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. for job seekers to learn more about the new training programs. Representatives from TriNova, Bishop State Community College and Volunteers of America were on hand to share the advantages of entering these programs.

totaling $872otaling $872mergency Graergency Grlost their job ost their job

were availablewere availabl Ee on Wedne on Wednva, Volunta, Volun1 for dislofor disl(NEG) weNEG) we to compato compaindustrial industrial Gted workers.ted worker

made availamade availay closure, wey closure, wutomation omation

$872,581 grant helps dislocated$872,581 grant helps dislocated workers workers

page 4

Thank You Thank You Mobile Works would like to thank Gia Coleman, Associate Director for the Department of Human Resources for her years of service on Mobile Works’ Youth Council. Coleman was an inaugural member of the youth council and her oversight has allowed hundreds of at risk youth the opportunity to earn their GED, get job training and reach their highest potential.

Gia Coleman (center ) is pictured with Jim Byard, Alabama Department of Economic and Community Affairs Director; Cheryl Williams, Past Board Chair; Sydney Raine, Mobile Works President; Rose Johnson, Director, Department of Human Resources. Coleman was honored for her years of service at Mobile Work’s Annual Meeting.

Photo 1: Mayor Jones stands as Sydney Raine, Mobile Works president addresses the crowd attending the press conference held August 8, 2012.

Photo 2 (above-far left): Mayor Jones presents a check to Latitia McCane, Bishop State Community College academic dean to train dislocated workers in nursing assisting and welding.

Photo 3: (above-center) Volunteers of America employees hold check in the amount of $190,179 to train dislocated workers. Pictured (from left to right) Deanna Ferguson,Vice President of Services; Carla Stallworth,Regional Services Director; Terry Bartlett,Chief Operating Offi cer; Jane Bendolph,Staff Development Coordinator.

Photo 4: (above-far right) Mayor Jones presents a check to Robbie Watson, president of Trinova, Inc. in the amount of $199,800 for instrumentation training.

Do you want current updates on job openings, career fairs and training opportunities? If so, subscribe to Mobile Works e-news bulletin. Visit www.mobile-works.org.

Page 5: Mobile Works Annual Report 2012-2013

The goal of Mobile Works’ training programs is toprovide fi nancial assistance for job seekers interested in learning a new skill that will allow them to better compete in the work-force.

Mobile Works uses standardized guidelines for training programs to assure that needs for Mobile County are addressed.Current policy mandates that training befocused in areas of high demand and growthwhich are maritime, aviation, materials handling, transportation, construction,manufacturing, healthcare and technology.

Additionally, Mobile Works, (in partnership with theDepartment of Labor and theAlabama Department of Economic and CommunityAffairs (ADECA) was granted funding to coordinate regionalworkforce development activities focused on moving longterm unemployed individuals(laid off more than twelve months prior) back into the workforcethrough On-the-Job Training.

Type of Funds

Total Available

as of 7/1/11

Expenditures as of 6/30/2012

CURRENTBalance as of

6/30/12ADULT $2,456,766 $1,503,679 953,087

DISLOCATED WORKER 1,021,602 $433,766 $587,836YOUTH $1,140,900 $949,317 $191,583LOCAL

ADMINISTRATION $357,715 $310,795 $46,920STATE INCENTIVE $77,582 $77,582 $0supplemental

grants

region 9 neg grant $43,356 $22,819 $20,537

ojt neg grant $101,762 $85,878 $15,884

TOTAL $5,199,683 $3,383,836 $1,815,847

page 5

workforce investment act

financefinance

When life happens, you make lemonade When life happens, you make lemonade (con’t from page 3)(con’t from page 3)

He began to present a letter to prospective employers regarding the OJT Program. This letter introduced the program and encouraged the employer to contact Mobile Works. He was eventually hired on with Bama Pest Control as a technician. “This program was win-win for me, Simon said. “Mr. Johnson (with Bama Pest Control) hired me with virtually no out of pocket expenses and I got the opportunity to prove myself.”

He further states that he really loves his job and the opportunity to help others. “This job was a perfect fi t for me. My job allows me to multi-task and be outside,” he said. Also, Simon describes himself as a problem solver and believes in taking care of his customers. “I am so excited when I can bring a smile to a customer’s face.”

Some people may see his job as simply killing bugs. Yet, Simon views his job as helping his customers protect the health of their family and the investment in their home or business. He’s found his niche and looks forward to bright future. “It feels good to provide for my family again.”

PNC Foundation Awards $15,000 Grant to Mobile Works

The PNC Foundation recently awarded a $15,000 grant for workforce development programming to Mobile Works. Through this partnership, Mobile Works will provide fi nancial literacy information and monthly training classes to job seekers.

“Our goal is to increase awareness of basic fi nancial literacy for job seekers and encourage a proactive approach,” states Sydney Raine, Mobile Works president. “In today’s job market, employers may require credit checks in addition to background checks as a condition of employment. These classes will provide basic tools to help address any additional barriers for employment.”

More than 60 people per month are expected to attend fi nancial literacy classes on topics such as basic banking, budgeting, avoiding identity theft, and key elements of money management. “PNC’s support is helping individuals in the Mobile area achieve the fi nancial skills and resources needed to competein today’s job market,” said Cedric Hatcher, PNC regional president, Gulf Coast. “This grant is just one of many ways we continue to invest in the fi nancial stability of our residents and the communities we serve.”

In addition to fi nancial literacy classes, current job readiness classes will be offered in resume writing, interviewing, dressing for a job interview and job search tips. To learn more, please visit www.mobile-works.org.

$0$0$0

Page 6: Mobile Works Annual Report 2012-2013

Mobile Works and the local offi ce of the Alabama Career Center have worked continually to establish themselves as the community’s focal point for workforce issues. Mobile Works adapted its resources to address the economic slowdown and the resulting changes to the unemployment rate in Mobile County. Mobile Works has continued to facilitate improved communication among key stakeholders as regionalized efforts to mobilize the workforce have been initiated. Business and community leaders have expressed very clearly, the need for more skilled workers and more effi cient and effective training programs. Mobile Works continues to proactively address these issues through a variety of initiatives.

•MARKETING: Strategies have increased awareness of available programs and services offered through Mobile Works and the Alabama Career Center. Mobile Works maintains local media relationships and participates in a variety of job fairs, community meetings, professional associations and advisory councils. Furthermore, businesses, job seekers and non-profi ts are advised of the latest developments in workforce development news and programs through Mobile Works’ weekly e-news bulletin and newsletter. These publications provide an ongoing way to raise awareness about WIA resources and help educate the community about opportunities for worker training.

•SOCIAL MEDIA: Mobile Works has an established Facebook page. This page has allowed Mobile Works to share photos and up to the minute news on job fairs, Mobile Works publications and special programs being held at the Alabama Career Center.

•JOB FAIRS AND COMMUNITY OUTREACH: Mobile Works routinely participates in area job fairs to reach job seekers throughout our area. Community outreach, through presentations on services and resources, is also provided throughout the year at area high schools, college campuses, district meetings, regional expos and informational presentations to churches and community based organizations.

ONE STOP ACTIVITY: Collaboration of services between Mobile Works, the Alabama Department of Labor, the Alabama Department of Rehabilitation Services and Bishop State’s Adult Basic Education has proven to be an added benefi t for job seekers and business owners. The Mobile offi ce of the Alabama Career Center provides: Customer access to intensive services required by WIA through One Stop Centers. WIA intensive services includes:- Full scale objective assessment - Developing an employment plan - Individualized counseling and career planning- Case management - Short-term pre-vocational services including job readiness training

Additionally, the Workforce Investment Board (WIB) established procedures and methods to assure that quality intensive services and training services were put in place in order to meet the challenge of establishing and implementing a redesigned system of services for WIA eligible adults and dislocated workers. Services now in place include WIA defi ned training services, occupational skills training and on-the-job training.

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issues. Mobile Works adapted its ress. Mobile Works adaptede economic slowdown and the resultinnomic slowdown and the mployment rate in Mobile County.yment rate in Mobile Coun

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W- Short-term pre-vocational services in- Short-term pre-vocational services inreadiness trainingreadiness training

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page 6

oneone activityactivitysstotsssstopppppppppppppppoooototoppppMobile Works and TriNiova receive national attention

In December, 2012, Matt Rivera with NBCNEWS.COM visited Mobile to learn more about jobs in the south. TriNova, Mobile Works’ newest training partner, graciously allowed Rivera to get up close and personal by observing a training class in action.

TriNova is a company which partners with customers and manufacturers in the process control arena. TriNova does periodic maintenance, repair, calibration and service of many valves, actuators and instrumentation products. This company serves various industries from food and beverage to pulp and paper to chemical companies and beyond. TriNova has offi ces in Alabama, Tennessee and Louisiana. In addition to business to business sales and corporate training, TriNova has partnered with Mobile Works to provide training for displaced workers. “We’re excited about partnering with TriNova. I’m confi dent that their training will put displaced workers in a position to compete for jobs in a growing industry,” states Sydney Raine, Mobile Works president.

Robbie Watson, President /CEO of TriNova shared that his company has experienced growth due to the rise in the manufacturing industry. He further

explained that companies such as Toyota, Hyundai, Nissan, Mercedes (Outokumpu (formerly Thyssenkrupp) and Airbus moving to the south has increased the demand

for workers in the manufacturing industry. Watson believes the future looks bright for Mobile County. To learn more about TriNova visit www.trinovainc.com.

Robbie Watson, president of TriNova waits patiently to be interviewed by Matt Rivera with NBCNEWS.COM

Marshall Barfi eld, training coordinator with TriNova, Inc talks with a training participant.

company which partners with customers and

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Robbie Watson, president of TriNMatt Rivera with NBCNEWS.CO

Page 7: Mobile Works Annual Report 2012-2013

Dreams can come true“Dreams can come true, I said to myself as I walked across the stage to receive my bachelors of science degree in nursing,” said Ashleigh Grear, who recently graduated from the University of South Alabama. She credits Mobile Works for helping to make her dreams come true. “There were some very tough times,” states Grear referring to her fi nancial struggles while in school. “The program was diffi cult and there were many late nights of studying and doing paperwork. There were instructors who were helpful and some instructors who were very diffi cult.” However, she persevered through it all and is now a proud graduate. Grear heard of the WIA program during orientation at school. Life became easier, according to Grear, when she received funding to help pay for her school and books. Grear has always dreamed of becoming a nurse since she was a little girl. She can truly say her dreams are now a reality and have come to fruition. She has started work as an RN at Providence Hospital.

Dreams can comDreaaammms can coo receive my baco r c ve my bac

Grear, who recentaar,r,r, who recentShe credits Mobilhhhee ccredits Mobi“There were some“T eere were sofinancial strugglefinnnanncial st

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page 7

scholarshipstraining

WIA participant Ashleigh Grear (far left) shares her experience at Mobile Works’ Annual Board meeting. Grear is pictured with Richard Davis, Mobile Works Board Chairman, Brenda Bright,Case Manager Coordiantor and Sydney Raine (far right), Mobile Works president.

2011-2012 training providers

Alabama Aviation Center of Mobile Cardiac and Vascular Institute of Ultrasound

University of mobile Bishop StaTE COMMUNITY COLLEGEFaulkner State Community College Premier Driving Academy

Coastal Operation Engineers Apprentice Program University of South Alabama fortis college

Mobile Plumbing & Pipefitting Joint Apprenticeship Program

Mobile Works partnered with area educational and vocational training institutions to provide skills training for eligible job seekers and dislocated workers through funds provided under the Workforce

Investment Act (WIA). Eligible job seekers pursued skills training in high wage/ high growth jobs in aviation, maritime,transportation, healthcare, technology, manufacturing, construction and materials handling.

Applicants interested in receiving a skills training scholarship must receive admission to program of preference, meet WIA eligibility requirements and complete their degree in two years or less. To learn more about these programs visit www.mobile-works.org.

Page 8: Mobile Works Annual Report 2012-2013

Chandra Brown, Lifelines Family Counseling; Remigia Coleman, Department of Human Resources; Richard Davis, Mobile Airport

Authority; Patsy Herron, United Way of Southwest Alabama; Barbara Mann, Community Volunteer; Pat Mitchell, Mobile County Public Schools;

Charles Pharr, Prichard Housing Authority; Frewin Osteen, Prichard Housing Authority; John Sipple, Southern Oil Exploration, Inc.;

Larry Travis, Job Corps Placement Office;Felecia Allen, Director, Mobile County Health Department

Mobile Works Youth Council is a key subcommittee of the Workforce Investment Board, The Council is charged with providing a comprehensive community-based system for hard to serve youth which encourages academic achievement, leadership and civic responsibility. Also, the Council was tasked with overseeing the delivery of GED prep programs to out of school youth with great success.

Area providers offered a variety of training, job readiness and academic remediation programs for the 2011-2012 program year. Services offered for youth via referral or services directly included intake and registration, an objective assessment, service strategy development (life/career plan), case management and follow-up, training and instruction to enhance secondary school completion, alternative secondary schooling opportunities, summer employment opportunities, paid and unpaid work experiences, occupational skills training, leadership development and access to supportive services. Youth programs funded by Mobile Works makes up 40% of the allocated program costs.

Furthermore, youth training providers helped eighty-three youth successfully achieve high school graduation or passed the GED and 20 youth with disabilities participated in a summer jobs program. Success of theses programs is attributed to our partnership with committed youth providers who implement innovative programs that attract and retain youth.

page 8

bile WorksMMo

Wilbert MerriweatherWilbert Merriweatherchairmanchairman

THANK YOU

2011-2012 youth training providers

Alabama Department of Rehabilitation Services

Dearborn YMCADynamic Educational Systems Inc.

Goodwill Easter Seals of the Gulf CoastMobile County School System

83 youth successfully graduated high school or obtained their GED

Youth council members listen to reports during its quarterly meetings.

Page 9: Mobile Works Annual Report 2012-2013

OOn September 28, 2012, Bernadette Jones, Youth Case Manager Coordinator put down her pen, closed her case fi les and headed for the hills after 34 years of service. Jones originally began her career in August of 1977 working with the Comprehensive Employment and Training Act (CETA) Program. In 1982 under President Reagan, the Job Training Partnership Act (JTPA) was enacted followed by the creation of the Workforce Investment Act (WIA) under President Clinton in 1998. The law was created to help prepare youth and unskilled adults for entry into the labor force through job training for economically disadvantaged individuals. Although these programs endured many name changes and areas of focus, Bernadette Jones was constant on the local level. During her career she she worked primarily with the youth. She also has worked with adult programs and served as a monitor.

Jones refl ected on how the kids in the late 70’s and 80’s had a genuine desire to work and succeed. They were motivated and wanted an opportunity. Jones explained how non-profi ts, schools and businesses would work together to fi nd solutions for at risk kids. “ If a student was falling behind in school and they wanted to participate in the summer jobs program,

arrangements were made to have the student get tutoring a portion of the day to increase their skills and work the other half,” Jones said. As a result of this program, several students graduated, enrolled in college/vocational school or found a job.

She had many successes over the years. Her most crowning achievement was receiving the state award for the best summer youth program in the state. In fact, she recalls hiring over 2,000 youth for one of the summer programs. “We worked very hard. There were many long hours and weekends. Going the extra mile was worth it to give kids job experience and afford them the opportunity to make money to buy things needed for school,” Jones said.

She attributes the successes of the youth and summer programs to building relationships and working

together. “The training providers and I had the same

goal-to help the youth succeed. My position as youth case manager coordinator was more than just a job, Jones stated. “It was an opportunity to make a difference in the lives of those who needed it the most.” She also stated that some kids had other problems in addition to working towards obtaining their GED. “They were more receptive to my instruction and advice when I showed them that I cared for their well being.”

“Her contributions to Mobile Works is priceless. We thank Bernadette for her years of service and impacting the youth in our community,” said Sydney Raine, Mobile Works president.

“I did the very best that I could. I respected the youth, tried to motivate the youth and encourage them to be the best they could be and be dedicated to reach their goals.”

RetiresRetiresMMbernadettej nes

page 9

Bernadette Jones

Sydney Raine presents Bernadette Jones with a proclamation from the City of Mobile.

Ms. Jones receives well wishes from Patsy Heron (far left), United Way and Youth Council Member; Laniece Mitchell, Friend; Bernadette Jones (center) and Alonzo Jones (far right), spouse of Bernadette Jones;(Far left-2nd row) Willie Cleveland, Alabama Career Center, District Tax, Clay Walters, former Veterans Repre-sentative for the Alabama Career Center and Mike Dixon, former Veterans Representative for the Alabama Career Center.

Page 10: Mobile Works Annual Report 2012-2013

Life is what you make it! After his mother went to prison, Jerry “Wayne” Barbee, II was left to care for himself at age fourteen.

After two years of trying to provide for himself, he realized that he could get a lot further in life if he had the help of trustworthy adults. He did not have family, education, or suffi cient income, but he did have a plan. With the help of these trustworthy adults, he was placed at St. Mary’s Group Home who helped him enroll into Dearborn YMCA’s Pathway to Employment G.E.D. Program.

While at Dearborn’s Pathway Program Wayne was able to accomplish his primary goal rather quickly. He enrolled into the program with above level scores and received his GED in less than two months after he started. The staff describes him as dedicated, hardworking, disciplined, and health conscious. His peers describe him as friendly and hardworking.

Wayne continued to attend the program after he received his GED. He worked on fi nding himself and overcoming the obstacles and disadvantages that he has endured. He also learned to recognize his existing strengths and potential. Wayne explored many career options, learned how to write a resume, the value of a good reference, and how to interview with an employer. He also continued to increase his academic levels in his core subject areas.

Now, less than fi ve months later, Wayne is a freshman at the University of South Alabama, majoring in computer information sciences, and has enrolled in R.O.T.C. with a military science minor. He lives on campus and is working toward higher goals for himself. He plans on enlisting with the U.S. Army at the beginning of the next school year. Wayne is motivated to become a better person and focusing on being all he can be.

Youth programs on the move On October 10, Mobile Works Youth Council held its annual Meet and Greet for current youth training providers and partners agencies at the Alabama Career Center. The purpose of the program was to introduce current youth programs to the 2012-2013 Mobile Works Youth Council, a subcommittee of the Workforce Investment Board of Directors. The current providers, DESI Career Training Center, Dearborn YMCA, Mobile County Public School System - Evening Educational Opportunities Program (EEOP) and Goodwill Easter Seals’ Youth Excelling for Success (YES) shared the benefi ts of these programs and answered questions and concerns presented by the Council.

Providers were also accompanied by recent graduates who shared their individual successes. Pictured below from left to right: Aaron Hall, EEOP Participant; Wayne Barbee, Dearborn YMCA Pathway to Employment; Javier Francis, Goodwill Easter Seals Y.E.S. Program; Patrick Heron, DESI Career Training Center.

SSyyystemm Eveeenning EducationaSSuucccceeessssss ((YEES) shareddd tthe benenncciill..

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page 10

“I did it for myself, no one else. I refused to

be like my family. Each individual experience you encounter in life

makes you who you are. Life is what you make it. Be creative, just don’t forget where you came

from.”

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Page 11: Mobile Works Annual Report 2012-2013

Persistence Pays Off To many, the number 37 could mean someone’s age, waist size or miles per gallon for a car. However, for James Spann the number 37 represents his career as a commercial press operator. In July, 2012 Spann lost his job with a local printing company. “My company switched from offset printing to digital output,” states Spann. Digital printing, according to Spann streamlined print preparation. As a result of this new technology, his job was eliminated.

While job searching he was introduced to a training program for dislocated workers sponsored by Mobile Works. Spann attended an information fair and learned about instrumentation training at TriNova. “I loved being a press operator and had no idea that my trade was going away,” Spann elaborated. “I attended the training fair and became open to learning a new set of skills. I decided to use this experience as an opportunity to grow.”

Spann is optimistic about the future and enthusiastic about what he is learning. “The instructors are awesome. They are very supportive and teach me the comprehensive aspects of instrumentation,” states Spann. He is also appreciative that TriNova is assisting

with fi nding jobs, helping with resumes and providing interview tips to help land a job. His future looks bright as he tackles his new career path. In fact, he recently landed a job with a local carpet company and his training at TriNova is a skill needed with his new employer. He’s now in a prime position for advancement opportunities.

Spann is also thankful for the help and the support he received while unemployed. He states that persistence pays off. “ I am so appreciative of Mobile Works, the Career Center, the Alabama JobLink website for displaying current job openings, unemployment benefi ts and all the resources that were available to me while unemployed. I owe everyone a debt of gratitude from Governor Bentley to Mobile Works and beyond.”

from thankful

I am so thankful for the help your program provided for me! Words do not allow me to suffi ciently express my gratitude. I am living my dream of working at a nationally recognized pediatric healthcare center. I consider it a privilege to care for some of the sickest kids in our state. Your fi nan-cial support was integral to me making my vision for my life come to fruition. I am forever appreciative to you and your program.

Paige R. Perry, RN,BSNChildren’s Hospital, Pediatric Intensive Care Unit

I am so excited that I had the opportunity to train at Premier Driving Academy. Previously I worked for a local lawn care company and wanted something diff erent. I decided to try truck driving because I come from a family of truck drivers. When I entered the training, I didn’t know how to drive a stick.

I love truck driving and I am pleased with my new career. Th is experience has changed my life. I am no longer living paycheck to paycheck. Th anks so much for this opportunity. I am appreciative of all the support from Mobile Works and Premier Driving Academy. Also, I thank Ms. Jones for her support and encouragement. She was very patient and helpful during the enrollment process.

LaMarcus Gwinn, Class A CDLSuperior Carriers

successfulg yks and beyond.”

page 11

comments WIA Participants

I am excited about Airbus coming to Mobile. My training at the aviation center of mobile, funded in part by Mobile Works, puts me in a prime position to be employed.

Darnell Steill

Stiell was one of 92 junior college students nationally who participated in the National Community College Aerospace Scholars Program held in May, 2012 at the Johnson Space Center in Houston, TX.

“ I am so appreciative of Mobile Works, the Career Center, the Alabama JobLink website that displayed current job openings, unemployment benefits and all the resources that were available to me while unemployed.”

hopeful

Page 12: Mobile Works Annual Report 2012-2013

Mobile Works, Inc.P.O. Box 889

Mobile, AL 36601____________________

Mobile Works News is published annually

by Mobile Works, Inc. Comments should be addressed to

Pamela G. Ware, Director of Marketing/Public Relations

c/o Alabama Career Center515 Springhill Plaza Court

Mobile , AL. 36608or via e-mail, [email protected]

A Proud Partner of the American Job Center

Network

PRSRT STDU.S. Postage

PAIDMobile, ALPermit #1390


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