JobsNOW

You may have seen or heard news about North Carolina’s “JobsNOW Program.” RCCC is playing a big role in this statewide effort. Following is information, offered in a FAQs format. Feel free to share these details with friends, colleagues and neighbors who might have an interest.

What is the JobsNOW Program?

A: JobsNOW is an initiative requested by Gov. Beverly Perdue, developed by North Carolina community colleges and funded by federal stimulus dollars through the Division of Workforce Development in the N.C. Department of Commerce. The objective of JobsNOW is to quickly train workers to re-enter the job market in fields that are in demand locally and across the state.

In addition to receiving the job skills necessary to enter a new career, those completing the program will receive Career Readiness Certification (CRC). The CRC is a national program that helps job applicants show proof of their basic skills to employers. The certificate is a portable credential, allowing job searchers to use it anywhere in the United States to demonstrate their competence in key foundational skills.

RCCC has received $350,000 in federal funding to develop JobsNOW training programs and pay instructors to teach the classes. RCCC’s programs will provide adults the opportunity to be trained in a new career in no more than six months.

What JobsNOW programs are available at RCCC?

A: RCCC developed and offered 13 JobsNOW training programs for the fall 2009 semester. Classes in these programs started in September and October.

For its Spring 2010 Semester, RCCC will offer five JobsNOW programs. These programs are:

Air Conditioning, Heating and Refrigeration - classes begin in March and May;
Office Systems Technology/Administration - classes start in January;
Tax Preparation/Accounting - classes start in January;
Welding Technology - classes begin in March; and
Wiring and National Electric Code (NEC) - classes begin in February.

Who is eligible to enter these programs?

A: Any adult learner can enroll in a JobsNOW program at RCCC. To apply or learn more about a specific JobsNOW program, contact RCCC’s R3 Center at 704-216-7201.

Are JobsNOW programs free?

A: No. Normal North Carolina community college tuition rates apply. However, some education and training funds are available for unemployed persons through local Workforce Development Boards. Contact the R3 Center for more details at 704-216-7201.

How long will it take to complete these programs?

A: These are condensed and intensive programs that must fall within a one-week to six-months time period. Most of RCCC's JobsNOW programs are in the six-month range. In all cases, participants will have the opportunity to be trained in a new career in no more than six months.

How do I get started in a 12-in-6 program?

A: Contact the R3 Center at 704-216-7201. Any person who wants to enroll in a JobsNOW program at RCCC must attend a JobsNOW workshop, conducted free-of-charge by the R3 Center. The center will offer numerous workshops in Cabarrus and Rowan counties.

For more information about RCCC’s JobsNOW programs and to register for a JobsNOW workshop, call the R3 Center at 704-216-7201. An R3 Center counselor will be able to answer your questions and help you identify the best JobsNOW program for you. The R3 Center is located at 164 Dale Earnhardt Blvd., in Kannapolis.