Finding what works in employment training

Securing the basics, networking opportunities, and computer access are all keys to a brighter future for the people we serve.

PPL’s Employment Skills Training curriculum and service approach have made it one of the most effective employment-readiness programs in the Twin Cities area.

A full system of support is available to job seekers at every stage, whether they are just getting started on a career track or preparing for the next step up the ladder. Customized classes draw from 40 core subject areas, such as professionalism, problem-solving, and attendance. Adult Basic Education is integrated into all training. Placement and retention services are provided, and two locations offer free access to computers in labs and workshops.

Here is what we’ve learned works:

Create networking opportunities

For nearly 12 years, PPL has successfully partnered with local health care employers, by delivering customized training and providing placement and retention services. For people without other employment networking connections, this approach gives them that much needed foot in the door.

A newly developed class is aimed at residents of St. Paul’s East Side, for employment at Regions Hospital. Employer Solutions Inc. contracted PPL to design the First Step-Next Step class to teach skills for available positions at the hospital.

Several St. Paul community-based organizations are helping connect eligible participants to the program that will serve 100 individuals over the course of a year.

Secure the basics

PPL’s classroom training teaches the skills needed for specific positions, and many of these require a high school or equivalency degree. Individuals with few skills and limited education often need to both find immediate work and get a GED to improve their future prospects. PPL offers these folks job placement services but also assessments, job coaches, career plans and short-term employment workshops.

Target the search

PPL serves a wide variety of low-income individuals including new immigrants, adults with felony records and other tough barriers to employment, recent high school graduates, and parents going from welfare to work. One-to-one placement and retention counseling addresses a person’s specific employment issues and offers assistance in developing resumes, interview skills, and job search strategies.

In this exceedingly challenging job market, PPL has strengthened placement efforts for both the graduates of the training classes and participants of the workshops. Staff find job postings and link candidates to the application process. Workshops and sessions are aimed at enhancing marketable skills.

Close the digital divide

Two PPL-operated Computer Access Labs in south Minneapolis are free to the public for employment and education-related goals.

Staff are on hand to help navigate software, job searches, resume development, clerical skills testing, and college placement tests. Workshops cover computer and internet basics, email setup, applying for colleges and financial aid, and training in commonly used software.