At first glance, being laid-off is never good.
But as the shock-anger-disappointment-fear subsides, the chance to reinvent your work life can emerge.
It’s an experience shared by millions who have lost jobs since the recession stated in December 2007. So far, the economy has shed more than 5 million jobs. In March, employers cut 663,000 jobs.
Displaced workers have turned to their hobbies or alternative career choices as a path to re-enter the workforce after acquiring new skills. USA Today recently reported that the $787 billion economic stimulus bill signed in February by President Obama includes $1.7 billion for adult employment services, including training, according to the Department of Labor.
Federal and state tuition assistance for laid-off workers entering college and vocational programs can make returning to school an appealing option. Also, in a number of states, students can continue to collect unemployment benefits.
For those wishing to delve into the hospitality and culinary arts arena, check out the Strategic Training and Education Partnership for the Hospitality Industry (STEP HI) program at Prince George's Community College.
A free one-hour orientation seminar will be held on Wednesday, April 29 from 10:30 a.m. and 6 p.m. in Rennie Forum on the Largo campus. Tuition assistance will also be discussed.
College officials are encouraging high school students, veterans and adults looking to enhance or change careers to attend the seminar.
“During the current economic downturn, a very high demand for hospitality and culinary arts managers and workers still exists,” said Daniel Mosser, vice president for workforce development and continuing education at PGCC in a recent statement. “Potential workers, especially youth, can take advantage of a wide range of high-paying hospitality and culinary arts career opportunities.”
The school was awarded $2.2 million in April 2008 from the Labor Department to help the hospitality industry in Prince George’s address hiring, training and retention challenges. County residents are eligible to apply for funds under the STEP HI program, which offers tuition assistance grants for students seeking a certificate or the Associate of Applied Science (A.A.S.) degree in hospitality services management or culinary arts at Prince George’s Community College.
School officials say reservations for the seminar are strongly encouraged. To reserve a seat, call 301-322-0071.
-- PGS Staff
|
