Program offers chance to pick up career skills

As South Carolina's unemployment climbs to rates not seen since the 1980s, area organizations hope a partnership can get people back to work.

The Lower Savannah Council of Governments, Aiken Technical College and the Aiken County school district have started a program that focuses on four entry-level classes: Certified Nursing Assistant, EMT, Career Cooking and Welding.

"The clusters are pathways into higher paying jobs," said Benella Floyd, the assistant workforce development administrator for the Lower Savannah Council of Governments.

"In every industry we talk to, they need people like welders," said Patrick O'Neill, the Aiken County Career and Technology Center's director. "And some of these jobs start at minimum of $16 an hour."

The partnership also hopes to overcome barriers that restrict additional schooling, such as another job, child care and transportation.

Most classes will be offered in the evening. Job seekers will be screened to see whether they qualify for funding through either the Lower Savannah Council of Governments or Aiken Tech, Mrs. Lloyd said.

Satellite locations are available at Wagener-Salley and North Augusta high schools, Mr. O'Neill said.

"You're going to see with all the budget cuts, education reformulating itself," he said. "The community is coming together to see what we can do to educate not only high school students but adults."

The apprenticeship programs require less training than seeking a diploma, which Mrs. Floyd said could more quickly result in stable employment.

Reach Julia Sellers at (706) 823-3424 or julia.sellers@augustachronicle.com