|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
11.26.2024
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Step Into Education: MassHire Greater New Bedford Partners for Career Paths in Education |
|
New Bedford, MA — MassHire Greater New Bedford Workforce Board, in
partnership with New Bedford Public Schools and Fairhaven Public Schools, has
been awarded $342,000 from Commonwealth Corporation’s WCTF Kenneth J.
Donnelly Workforce Success Training Grants to focus on developing career
pathways in post-secondary education with the goal of increasing the number
Special Education teachers.
Beginning Fall 2024, 60 unemployed or underemployed residents will
have an opportunity to receive no-cost job training with fast track entry into
the Paraprofessional field.
Paraprofessionals play a crucial role in the learning environment by
providing both group and individual instructional support and behavioral
guidance. They assist in an array of supportive services for English language
learning, physical and medical needs, and applying adaptive technology.
Paraprofessionals collaborate as partners with teachers in both general and
special needs settings. |
|
The Paraprofessional training program will be conducted in two steps.
Grant partners have secured training services from Living Become, LLC, a
developer of innovative, customized curriculum and learning tools that
encourage social and emotional learning experiences. As the primary trainer for
this project, Living Become has created a 45-hour training program to address
topics that will give new paraprofessionals an understanding of the scope
of the job and prepare them for the various roles they play in schools. Lesley
University will also provide support and guidance to assist Living Become in
delivering the training.
"This paraprofessional training takes a holistic approach to education
by focusing on social emotional learning and its importance in the overall
learning process. Understanding how to relate to students, meeting them where
they are on their learning journey, and how to create a kind and compassionate
space for them to learn is the focus of the training. These are important
skills to have in and out of the classroom." says Kristin Asadourian, Founder
and SEL Leader at Living Become. |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
MassHire Greater New Bedford Workforce Board Welcomes
Staff Team Member Angie Furey
|
|
Angie Furey, Program Support Specialist |
|
Angie has over 25 years of experience assisting job
seekers through the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA). Angie, a
Wareham native, moved to New Bedford in the late 1990s and began her career in
workforce development as an Administrative Assistant at the Career Center. Angie was promoted to Career Counselor in
|
|
|
|
2000, where she provided direct support and guidance to individuals seeking career growth and opportunities. In September 2024, Angie joined the Board Staff as
Program Support Specialist, bringing her extensive knowledge, insight, and
passion for community impact to this position.
Outside of work, Angie enjoys
spending time with her family, particularly her husband, grown daughter, and
grandson. In her time off, Angie enjoys camping, trips to New Hampshire, and
taking cruises.
|
|
|
|
|
|
Career Center Welcomes New Team Members |
|
Steven LePage, Business Services Representative |
MassHire Greater New Bedford Career Center welcomes Steven LePage to our
Business Services Team. Steven joined the GNBCC staff as a Business Services
Representative on September 18, 2024. He comes to the GNBCC after nearly a
decade of fundraising experience, including the New Bedford Whaling Museum and
WCAI. Steven has an 8-year-old son and two cats that constantly keep him on his
toes.
|
|
Tayla Costa, Upskilling Navigator |
The Career Center welcomes Tayla Costa, Upskilling Navigator for Special
Programs. In her role, Tayla assists individuals in finding and enrolling in
job training programs that can help them develop new skills. Tayla’s background
includes working in recruitment for Job Corps. She holds a Bachelor’s Degree in
Psychology from UMass Dartmouth. In her free time, Tayla enjoys traveling and
attending live music events.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Building Pathways South (BPS)
MassHire GNB is thrilled to highlight its longtime partner,
Building Pathways South (BPS).
Overseen by its undaunted Program Director, Yvonne Tobey,
BPS is a pre-apprenticeship program dedicated to helping low-income individuals
gain access to registered apprenticeship programs and, ultimately, careers in
the building trades.
|
|
|
|
In speaking with Yvonne, she noted that BPS provides the
opportunity for individuals to earn livable wages and a career, as opposed to
just a job. BPS provides career paths as an alternative to college.
Building Pathways South (BPS) promotes diversity in the
construction industry through a curriculum focused on general construction,
highway safety, and includes an Offshore Wind 101 in its curriculum to
highlight opportunities in the transformative offshore wind sector.
BPS is a collaborative effort between the Brockton &
Vicinity Building Trades Council and the Southeastern Massachusetts Building
Trades Council. It is fiscally sponsored by the Coalition for Social Justice
Education Fund. BPS’s funding comes from the Massachusetts Department of
Transportation, TradeFutures, and Vineyard Wind 1. The program is fiscally
sponsored by the Coalition for Social Justice Education Fund.
Adding to the mix, Yvonne believes building relationships
with community partners is essential for raising awareness of shared services
and opportunities available to students, and feels partnerships make it
possible for organizations to share referrals, improve support for individuals
and leverage each other’s knowledge.
|
|
What is Building Pathways South?
Building
Trades Pre-Apprenticeship Program
- Will prepare you to enter an apprenticeship
in the building and construction trades
- The program includes classroom
and hands-on learning
- Case management and career
placement support
Sponsored by Building Pathways South in partnership with:
- The Brockton & Vicinity
Building Trades
- Southeastern Massachusetts
Building Trades
- The Coalition for Social Justice
Fund
What is a building trades apprenticeship?
- Known as “the other 4-year
degree”
- 3 to 5 -year training program to
become a journey-level craftsperson
- Classroom and on-the-job training
- Earn while you learn
- 17 trades to choose from
- Can earn an Associate Degree in
many apprenticeship programs
|
|
|
|
|
|
For more information about this incredible chance to start a new career and be part of a movement toward a diverse and inclusive workforce please visit https://www.buildingpathwayssouth.com.
|
|
|
|
|
|
MassHire
Greater New Bedford Workforce Board extends a sincere thank you to the
Mayor of New Bedford, Jon Mitchell, for his support in declaring the week of November 17th through November 23rd as National Apprenticeship Week in New Bedford.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
MassHire Greater New Bedford Workforce Board congratulates
both Anthony Som and Joseph Svedine on completing their Computer Numerical
Control Operator Registered Apprenticeship. They completed their one-year, on-the-job
training, while being employed at Cotter Machine in Wareham. They both have
received their Certificates of Completion from the Division of Apprentice
Standards. We are proud of the effort that both Anthony and Joseph applied to
achieve their certificates.
|
|
|
|
|
|
MassHire Youth Services Update |
|
Earlier this year MassHire Greater New Bedford consolidated our Youth Services under the Workforce Board. We are pleased to introduce and officially welcome our newest Youth Team members.
|
|
|
|
Christina Baptiste, Youth Program Manager |
|
My name is Christina Baptiste. As a dedicated Youth Case Manager and now the Out-of-School Program Manager, I have spent years working to support and empower youth, especially those who face challenges in accessing educational opportunities. My journey in this field has been driven by a passion for making a positive impact on our youth in the community and ensuring they have the resources and support they need to thrive, both in and out of school. I am committed to providing guidance, mentorship, and
opportunities that help young people reach their full potential.
|
|
|
|
Outside of my professional role, I am a proud grandparent who cherishes spending time with my grandchildren, creating lasting memories, and watching them grow. Family is at the heart of everything I do, and I find great joy in being a part of their lives.
My faith also plays a significant role in my life. I am an active member of my church, where I find spiritual fulfillment and connection with a supportive community. My faith guides me in both my personal and professional endeavors, and I strive to live out my values by serving others, especially the youth I work with.
When I’m not working or spending time with family, I enjoy shopping and exploring local shops. My favorite time of year is summer, so relaxing beach vacations, where I can unwind, enjoy the calming sounds of the ocean, and recharge is the best. I also value quiet moments of solitude to reflect and relax, allowing me to find balance in the busyness of life. Another most recent simple pleasure I enjoy is putting my feet in the grass, feeling grounded and connected to nature.
With a strong foundation in family, faith, laughter, and personal time, I strive to stay grounded, joyful, and fulfilled in both my professional and personal life.
|
|
|
|
Jandira (Ja) da Silva, Youth Case Manager
|
My name is Jandira da Silva, and I have dedicated much of my life to working with youth and fostering a supportive environment for those who face challenges. My journey began in middle school where I volunteered during my summers to spend time with peers who have autism. This initial experience ignited a passion in me that has shaped my career and life choices.
Over the past decade, I have worked primarily as a therapeutic mentor, gaining firsthand insight into the
importance of meeting youth where they are in their personal journeys. I have mentored countless young individuals, striving to create an atmosphere of trust and rapport. I firmly believe that the key to making a difference in a young person’s life often comes down to having just one person who believes in them. My goal has always been to use my life experiences to encourage and motivate the youth in our community, showing them that they too can overcome obstacles and achieve greatness.
I strongly believe that together as a community, we can make a lasting impact on their lives, reinforcing the idea that they are not alone and that someone genuinely cares about their future. It takes a village!
|
|
Helping
Customers Reach Their Goals – A Phlebotomy Training Success
We are pleased to highlight a Youth Team success story from
Jandira “Ja” da Silva, Youth Case Manager. Jandira’s commitment to helping participants
succeed, despite challenges, truly reflects our mission to support and empower
our customers.
This past summer, Marcia D. S. enrolled in the Workforce
Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) program with hopes of pursuing Phlebotomy
Technician training at Coastal Career Academy. Maria’s enrollment was completed
in August, however some unexpected requirements
emerged, creating obstacles to her entry into the course. Just a week before
her training was set to begin, Jandira discovered that Marcia needed additional
documentation, a TB shot, and a passing score on her TABE test, with only three
days left before the course deadline.
With determination, Jandira moved into action. She coordinated
medical appointments, arranged a TABE test, and secured all the necessary
documents to finalize her enrollment. That Thursday, Marcia completed her TABE
test, scheduled her TB shot for Friday, and gathered all her paperwork. Thanks
to Jandira’s hard work, and Marcia’s perseverance, Marcia has now begun Phlebotomy
training and is on the path to achieving her career goals.
|
|
|
|
|
|
Youth Team Job Placement Milestones – November Achievements
In addition to Marcia’s training success, Jandira has also celebrated three notable job placements this month. These customers have taken meaningful steps toward achieving |
|
|
|
their career goals: T.G. – Hired as an Outbound Selector at Sysco in Plympton, MA, at $27.36 per hour, full time. G.G. – Accepted a position as a Support Advocate with Seven Hills in Westport, MA, at $20.50 per hour, full-time. A.N. – Received a job offer from Best Buy in Dartmouth and awaits his start date. He also completed his HiSET earlier this summer. These placements underscore our team’s commitment to providing guidance, resources, and encouragement for our customers on their career paths. Congratulations to all involved!
|
|
|
|
Brandon Soares, Youth Case Manager
|
|
My name is Brandon Soares and I am a dedicated Youth Case Manager for the Greater New Bedford Workforce Board with five years of experience in human services. Passionate about empowering individuals and fostering growth, I specialize in providing comprehensive case management and advocacy for youth within the New Bedford community.
With a skill set that includes strong communication, active listening, empathy, problem-solving, and critical thinking, I have consistently
|
|
|
|
demonstrated the ability to address complex challenges and deliver client-centered solutions. My organizational abilities, cultural competence, and deep understanding of human development allow me to build meaningful relationships and rapport with clients from diverse backgrounds, all while maintaining ethical practices and a focus on their unique needs.
Through my commitment to impactful service and his ability to create positive change, I have been able to make a lasting difference in the lives of the individuals and families that I’ve served in the Greater New Bedford area.
|
|
|
|
Lindsey Rocha, Youth Case Manager
|
|
My name is Lindsey Rocha, and I have had the pleasure of working with young adults for 15+ years. I have a deep commitment for helping those in the community reach their full potential in the many industries in New Bedford, and surrounding communities. I have a passion for cultivating strong relationships with community organizations, educational institutions, and employers by diving into the actual work. I encourage all to not only get their hands dirty, and ask the big questions. Do the big scary things, and put yourself out there. Enjoying this journey with our young adults has truly filled my cup.
|
|
|
|
Since as long as I can remember, I had a passion for discovery. I took many risks and dove into complex work environments from large-scale aquariums, hotels and hospitality, social work, grant work, starting a dog sitting business, and most recently as a Certified Global Wind Organization Safety Training Instructor in the world of offshore wind. Throughout this journey, I realized that many of the skills I have gathered along the way allow me to be of service in the workforce.
I truly believe that we are building champions and future stakeholders who will guide the way for many generations to come.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Healthcare Training Now Enrolling! |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
MassMEP’s MACWIC Training Graduation |
|
|
|
Photo MACWIC Training Graduates |
|
The MassHire Greater New Bedford Workforce Board and MassMEP joined efforts to help decrease the shortage of qualified skilled employees to meet employer demands of the 21st century. MassMEP conducted in person training at the MassHire Brockton Workforce Board.
The MassHire Greater New Bedford and the MassHire Greater Brockton Workforce Board and Career Center staff congratulates the students who graduated from the MACWIC Level 1 & Level 2 Advanced Manufacturing Competency training that took place at the MassHire Greater Brockton Workforce Board in Brockton. This 80-hour course prepared the students with essential skills to prepare them for entry level jobs in Advanced Manufacturing. This program is funded by a grant from the Center for Advanced Manufacturing at the Massachusetts Technology Collaborative in partnership with the New Bedford Workforce Board.
If you are a hiring employer, please contact the MassHire Greater Brockton Career Center at (508) 513-3482 to give these individuals a chance to work in your company in a thriving industry. |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
SAMC focuses on connecting manufacturers with the resources for developing a sustainable, talented pipeline of employees. We achieve this by providing input on educating and training for your current and future workforce, and by identifying best practices in advanced manufacturing workforce activities.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
MassHire GNB October 29, 2024 Job Fair
|
|
|
|
More than 42 employers and over 350 enthusiastic job seekers attended the MassHire GNB Career Center's job fair on October 29, 2024. The first hour was devoted to helping veterans find employment.
Missed out? It’s not too late to reach out to the MassHire GNB Career Center and discover your next career move or find your new hire!
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Disaster assistance and resources for Veterans |
|
|
|
|
|
This edition highlights resources for veterans affected by natural disasters, ensuring continued access to VA benefits, housing, and healthcare. In the wake of a disaster, visit the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs’ Disaster Help website for resources available to veterans and their families. Check out this Vets Experience article for further details about these services.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
We hope that you found our newsletter to be useful and informative. Your views and feedback are very important to us. Please feel free to send an email to info@masshiregreaternewbedford.com with any comments, suggestions or questions you may have.
|
|
|
|
Submit your news or event!
|
|
MassHire Greater New Bedford Workforce Board accepts workforce and economic development related press releases and upcoming events for consideration. All submissions are subject to approval by MassHire Greater New Bedford Workforce Board.
|
|
Submitted items may appear in our next newsletter and/or be added to our website's news section or event calendar at any time. All press releases must be submitted in digital format and should contain the following information:
- Organization name and contact information
- Date of release
- Press release headline
- Press release copy
- Logo and photos in JPG, PNG or PDF format (if available)
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
ABOUT US The MassHire Greater New Bedford Workforce Board is a business-led, policy-setting board that oversees workforce development initiatives in the ten-community region stretching from Dartmouth to Wareham, MA. Appointed by New Bedford Mayor Jon Mitchell, the Board is composed of business, civic, education, labor, and community leaders. The workforce board oversees workforce development efforts in Acushnet, Dartmouth, Fairhaven, Freetown, Lakeville, Marion, Mattapoisett, New Bedford, Rochester, and Wareham. The board oversees the MassHire Greater New Bedford Career Center staff operated jointly by Equus Workforce Solutions® and the MassHire Division of Career Services (MDCS).
The Greater New Bedford Workforce Investment Board is one of 16 similar Boards in Massachusetts. Workforce Investment Boards direct federal, state, and private funding for educational and occupational skills programs.
In addition to responsibilities mandated under the federal Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act of 2014 (WIOA), Boards have been called upon to play a major role in a variety of workforce initiatives, and to define the board’s goals based on local community needs.
|
|
|
|
individuals and the workforce needs of businesses. The Career Center is dedicated to providing high quality services in a professional and welcoming environment, including counseling, education, and technology to support job search, and labor market information and recruitment opportunities for businesses.
|
|
|
|
OUR MISSION MassHire creates and sustains powerful connections between businesses and job seekers through a statewide network of employment professionals.
OUR VISION
MassHire envisions a better future for people and businesses of Massachusetts through meaningful work and sustainable growth.
OUR PROMISE
MassHire promises to champion prosperity, connecting employers with talent and job seekers with tools, services, and connections to achieve meaningful and sustained employment. |
|
OUR VALUES
COLLABORATION
MassHire believes in the power of partnership and streamlined integration of services to achieve effective and timely results for those we serve.
RESPECT
MassHire is committed to understanding and valuing the diverse, unique requirements and professional goals of the businesses and people we serve.
RELIABILITY
MassHire creates trust and reliability by consistently delivering high quality professional services at each location and in every interaction.
INGENUITY
MassHire leverages flexibility, expertise, and knowledge to successfully meet our mission, regardless of new challenges and circumstances.
PERSONALITY
“I am your trusted partner in achieving your personal and business goals. I embrace your needs as my mission and offer a welcoming, professional experience at every point in our journey together. I believe in you as I do in myself. Things change quickly… I GET IT. You can always depend on me to offer guidance, resources, and support. If you want a job, seek to fortify your business for the long-term, or need a quick response to a pressing need, I can help. “Let’s get to work!”
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
MassHire Programs & Services are funded in part by US Department of Labor (USDOL) Employment and Training Administration grants as well as non-federal funded grants. (Additional details furnished upon request.)
|
|
|
|
.jpg)
.jpg)
.png)
