EMDC Presents New Educational Services and Resources for Job Seekers
Posted on April 28, 2020 | News
Virtual Workshops Position Job Seekers for Success by Boosting Their Understanding of Services, Career Options, Job Search Strategies and More
BANGOR, ME – In a time of economic uncertainty, Eastern Maine Development Corporation (EMDC) is taking an optimistic posture and launching a new series of virtual workshops to assist job seekers in navigating current labor market realities, while emphasizing solid fundamentals for use now and when the COVID-19 health emergency subsides.
“EMDC remains actively engaged in helping people learn, grow and pursue education, training or meaningful employment during this challenging period,” said Lee Umphrey, EMDC President and CEO. “Our workforce development team is prepared and excited to assist job seekers in making effective use of this unprecedented time.”
A series of free virtual workshops has been created to guide individuals through the career exploration and job search process. Participants will receive an overview of today’s job market, tools to assess their career interests, and strategies for identifying and highlighting skills. They will also receive support in developing effective materials, including a resume and cover letter, and in searching for job openings.
Workshop 1, Tuesdays at 11:00 a.m.: The Starting Point–Introduction to EMDC Services – Beginning May 5th, this workshop is the starting point for new participants. It will provide an overview of EMDC services for job seekers and help them to determine next steps.
Workshop 2, Tuesdays at 10:00 a.m.: Career Exploration – This workshop will engage participants in an exploration of career options, with an emphasis on high-wage, high-demand occupations. The first session, May 5th, will be delivered with New Ventures Maine (https://newventuresmaine.org/), which has provided free career, business and financial guidance for 40 years.
Workshop 3, Wednesdays at 10:00 a.m.: Health Care Quarantine Connection –Participants will gain a thorough understanding of the current health care sector, job openings, needed skills and credentials, and effective ways to apply for health care positions.
The initial workshop, May 6th, will feature speakers from the Maine Community College System, including Chris Winstead, the Director of Workforce Development at Eastern Maine Community College. Workshop participants will learn about a new series of no-cost, short-term training programs offered by Community Colleges in health care and other fields (www.mccs.me.edu/workforce-training).
Workshop 4, Thursdays at 1:00 p.m.: Job Readiness – This weekly workshop will give job seekers a comprehensive package of information and materials addressing the job search and application process. Topics will include effective networking, resume and cover letter development, new job search techniques, and sound interviewing skills. The May 7th workshop will include a guest speaker from Wayfair who will provide insights about what employers are typically seeking in applicants.
Several organizations and businesses will partner with EMDC in presenting these workshops by offering guest speakers and other resources. Initial partners include Eastern Maine Community College, New Ventures Maine, Adult Education Providers, Northern Light Health and Wayfair.
“EMDC prioritizes innovation and collaboration, and seeks to strengthen the economy by keeping up with the changing needs and expectations of job seekers and the business community. These workshops will feature insights and guidance from some of our partner organizations in the region to ensure a valuable learning experience,” Umphrey stated.
More information and registration details are available by contacting Doug Dunbar at ddunbar@emdc.org or calling 299-5626.
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Eastern Maine Development Corporation is a non-profit based in Bangor, Maine fostering public-private partnerships and leveraging resources to help communities, businesses and individuals reach long-term goals and achieve prosperity. EMDC’s workforce development service area covers Penobscot, Piscataquis, Hancock and Washington Counties.