Anoka Work Skills Training Program

Purpose: To provide a set of nontraditional and flexible training opportunities, to meet the known workforce needs of a variety of health care sector employees. Participants receive individualized training and wrap-around supports that meet their interests and needs.

The goal is to provide training and career laddering opportunities to low-wage incumbent workers (parents) who are working in entry level jobs and who have the aptitude for, and interest in, jobs within the health care industry. This grant supports an extension of Anoka Works – Community Transition Project, a collaborative effort between the Anoka and Mercy/Unity Hospitals, Crest View Corporation, and area colleges to address the worker shortage in the healthcare industry. Key elements in the project include providing extensive career support to participants including a vocational counselor, comprehensive assessments, career counseling, strong links with employers, flexible training, retention strategies, and support groups. Different position levels are addressed – immediate employment in entry level jobs and those with a brief training needed to enter, and exploratory efforts to develop a flexible training option for those requiring two years of training. An ESL class was added in June 2002 to complement the skill training of the nursing assistant program, allowing students to practice both hands-on practical skills and communication skills.

	Partners: (As of April 2003)
		Educational: Anoka-Hennepin Technical College, Anoka-Ramsey Community College, North Hennepin Community College, Inver Hills Community College, St. Paul Technical College, Metro North Learning Lab (ABE consortium)
		Employers and business organization: Allina Hospitals/Clinics, Mercy Hospital, Unity Hospital, Crestview Corporation
		Non-Profit Organizations: None
		Public philanthropic, and other organizations: Anoka County Job Training Center
	Participants: Low-wage incumbent workers
	Recruitment: Extensive community collaboration and outreach through welfare-to –work program, hospitals and other health care providers, community colleges, and general marketing
	Training: Through cooperating community colleges, the project focuses on flexible training and employment in the following areas: Nursing Assistant, 2-year Registered Nurse, Lab Assistant/Phlebotomist, Health Unit Coordinator and Medical Assistant. An ESL workplace literacy program was implemented in June 2002. A typical program is half-time for two years. As needed, some students may receive help with soft skills or basic skills
	Support Services: Tuition assistance and case management for all participants, with other supports (such as child care and help with emergencies) as needed
	Job placement, retention and advancement: In-depth career counseling, with ongoing case management to modify and sustain individualized skill-building plans. Program also offers retention supports