Community Coordinator Report
By Josephine Wyatt

January - March, 2005

Staff Planning Day

On March 17, 2005, Workforce Connection staff participated in an all day staff training to enhance the business services that we offer.  The training was facilitated by two "experts" in the field....Kathy Schmitz and Kathy Garcia from Tehama Job Training Center in Red Bluff.  They were asked to assist because of their "model business services program."  Workforce Connection staff were excited about transitioning towards the "Business First Model" and being able to contribute to our success.  

One of the first things we discussed was  "What is our goal?"  Staff felt that our goal was..."To develop a detailed Action Plan for implementing Phase I of the Workforce Connection's new and improved Business Services Program." 

Workgroups have been formed in the areas of Operations Management, Job Board and Applicant Pool to begin the process.  Morning meetings have been implemented to communicate and discuss the following:  Current Job Orders, Applicant Pool, "What's Going On," and Updates from the Executive Director. We have had a few stumbling blocks, however, we have worked the bugs out and things seem to be moving forward.  We have learned that it's o.k. to disagree and everyone is gaining knowledge from one another.  

We have goals and timelines and continue to work towards accomplishing them.  It's going to be a lengthy process, but all staff believe we can do it together!!!!


Community Working Together

Siskiyou Training and Employment Program, Inc. (STEP), a partner in the Workforce Connection, has received State grant funding to address the labor shortages in the healthcare field. The Northern California Nurse Training Program is a strategic effort to prepare workers for new and increasing job opportunities in this high growth/high demand and economically vital industry.


STEP, along with College of the Siskiyous, Mercy Medical Center Mt. Shasta and Farichild Medical Center, are partnering to provide a program based on the career ladder approach for those students transitioning through the healthcare field beginning with the Certified Nurse's Assistant through Registered Nurse. In addition, the partnership will explore avenues to enhance and expand current healthcare training programs. Funds will be availabe to assist with a variety of student training activities.
Pictured above are representatives from College of the Siskiyous, Mercy Medical Center Mt. Shasta, Fairchld Medical Center, and Siskiyou Training & Employment Program, Inc.



Helpful "Hud"

Dailvin Broomfield, a junior at Weed High School, needed some help with his grades. He was in danger of failing six out of his eight classes. Knowing of the services STEP provides Jennifer Truttman, Academic Coordinator for Upward Bound, referred Dailvin for the much needed academic assistance he required. STEP staff introduced Dailvin to Hud Oates, our Learning Lab Specialist.

Hud helped Dailvin to concentrate on his strengths instead of his weaknesses. Dailvin meets with Hud at the Workforce Connection two to three times weekly.

Although they mostly work on Dailvin's math skills, Hud has assisted Dailvin with all his subjects. With hard work and dedication, Dailvin passed all eight of his classes and is looking forward to continued success with the help and support he receives from STEP staff. Dailvin would like Hud to be his mentor for his senior project next year and is researching project ideas. Dailvin said "The STEP staff are very helpful and Hud....is the "man". I would be so far behind without his help."
We wish Dailvin all the best!!!!


Congratulations Workforce Connection Staff

Way to Go....The Workforce Connection recently had eight staff pass the California Staffing Professionals Accredited Consultant exam.  Paula Young & Reich, Brenda Sisk, Tara Cunningham, Renee Barr, Delores Virag, Janie Gaither, Jeanne Hough and Cheryl Murphy join Joanie Zarzynski and Josephine Wyatt to bring a total of 10 Accredited Business Consultants to the Workforce Connection.
Congratulations to all!!!!


Employment Opportunities for College Students

Many college students face difficulties when it comes to juggling employment and educational needs. In an effort to provide resources that can alleviate these pressures, Workforce Connection staff will be providing outreach to college students beginning in April.

College of the Siskiyous has requested that the Workforce Connection visit the campus to provide job search assistance, resume preparation and current job listings. Staff will be on campus twice monthly. The Workforce Connection is excited about this partnership and look forward to assisting students with their employment needs. 

This outreach is extremely beneficial not only to the students but to Siskiyou County businesses as summer approaches and the need for additional employees arises.  Staff are also assisting local high school students with the Workforce Connection's annual "Get a Job Days" that is scheduled for the month of April . 


Welcome Baby Mia

The newest addition to STEP is the arrival of Mia Lynn Cunningham, daughter of Tara and Kent Cunningham and little sister to Gabe, born on February 24, 2005. Mia weighed 8 lbs and was 20-1/2 inches long. Tara has worked at STEP since 1993 as a Summer Youth Consultant and Receptionist. She currently serves as a Vocational Advisor.