Ames Chamber Of Commerce: Story County Retraining Program Now Accepting Participants

Press release from the Ames Chamber of Commerce:

November 17, 2021

The Ames Chamber of Commerce is pleased to announce the launching of the Story County COVID-19 Workforce Retraining Initiative. This plan was previously approved by the Story County Board of Supervisors in order to support the employment needs in Story County. Over 400 passionate workers in numerous industries now have the opportunity to retrain and develop their careers at no cost.

This program will take place between the Ames, Boone, and Ankeny DMACC campuses, where education and training will allow for high skill development. Upcoming in December of 2021 is a Manufacturing Production Technician Certification. In early 2022, Certified Nursing Assistant (Basic & Advanced), and Welding, Construction, and Manufacturing opportunities will be available. In each of these focus areas, numerous employers are eager to hire passionate and qualified workers as the current unemployment issues press on.

“The vision to retrain Story County residents and support employment is inspiring yet a natural course of action. This Story County COVID-19 Workforce Retraining Initiative acts as a reinvestment to our community, local economy, and residents. We are excited to bring our community into the future alongside many Story County organizations and the Des Moines Area Community College,” says Nikki Fischer, Director of Workforce & Diversity.

To encourage and aid participants, there are resources available such as transportation assistance, childcare support, WTA funding, scholarship opportunities, and stipends. Among these supporting resources, there will also be chances for participants to meet employers and prepare themselves for their career with guidance and support.

Those interested in the December Manufacturing session should plan to attend an informational session on Thursday, November 18 at the Ames Chamber of Commerce office at 304 Main. Sessions will be held at 3:00pm and 6:00pm. Registration is not required.

If you are interested in the program, contact Nikki Fischer, Director of Workforce & Diversity at the Ames Chamber of Commerce at nikki@ameschamber.com or by calling 515.232.2310.

This press release was produced by the Ames Public Library. The views expressed here are the author’s own.