WDC Programs Provide Robust Work Experiences for a Skilled Workforce

The Career Action Center Program (CAC), in collaboration with the Poughkeepsie City School District, provides career and college exploration services to all students attending Poughkeepsie High School. The CAC plays a dual role in serving youth by acting as a drop-in center, where youth are able to receive assistance with job search, resume writing, interview preparation, and more. Throughout the year, the CAC also operates a mentorship program with selected youth to provide paid work experience opportunities that focus on the youth’s career interests.

This year, the CAC along with Nuvance Health, was able to successfully launch its very own first pilot Student Internship Program. This 6-week program allows interested students to delve into on-site experience working at Vassar Brother’s Medical Center, and to explore and learn from various clinical and non-clinical departments. Such departments include Biomed, coding, food services, human resources, information technology, lab techs/phlebotomy, nursing, patient access, EMS, guest services, and more.

This year, Youth One Stop has received high-interest levels from participants to embark on a career within the manufacturing industry. Considering that many participants lack reliable transportation, it was critical to identify host site locations that would be accessible to participants. When Mid-Hudson Works learned of this effort, they immediately opened their doors to offer a place where our participants would be mentored and gain invaluable knowledge relating to all facets of the industry.

Not only does WDC strive to promote an equitable and diverse workforce, but our programs also remain an advocate to encourage youth to continue their education. Beginning in the spring, WDC along with BOCES ALI, will be hosting in-person GED classes for participants who face transportation barriers to the alternative BOCES location on Salt Point Turnpike. Additionally, program participants are given the opportunity to enroll in high-demand occupational skills training paid for by their respective programs. Such training courses include but are not limited to Certified Nursing Assistant, HVAC Technician, COMP TIA, Network Security, Phlebotomy, Certified Commercial Driver, and more.

Our WDC programs continue to seek interested employers to become host sites for internships. For more information on how to get involved, please contact the Director of the Workforce Development Center Programs, Marilyn Figueroa at mfigueroa@dcrcoc.org or 845-454-1700 Ext. 1051.