SOUTH BAY WORKFORCE INVESTMENT BOARD - 2011

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transfer the skills they have to another industry, many will need to improve their basic skills in subjects such as Math and Writing. Supportive services are more critical for these two populations. Work Experience and On- the -Job Training contracts will also be used to increase their job specific skills in new job areas. Many Rapid Response clients are increasingly asking for training in the health care industry, which is one of the strategic industry clusters targeted by the Kern, Inyo, and Mono Workforce Investment Board. Other potential occupations and industries to be targeted include Warehousing, Clerical, and Manufacturing. Forklift drivers, Mechanics, and Technicians may have a high school education in addition to skills acquired in their industry. Short On- the -lob Training contracts would be highly effective for these job seekers in order for them to adapt or upgrade their skills to their new industry. Short -term training that results in certification would also be effective. Ten percent of dislocated workers have higher education levels, including Associate and Bachelors degrees. In addition to their education, their experience as Maintenance Engineers, Managers and Trainers provides a skill set that is broadly applicable to many industries. Direct referrals to employers and especially On- the -Job Training contracts would be effective services for this population. Kings County Workforce Investment Board The educational levels for the workers at the former Artesia Dairy are very low, with many lacking a high school diploma. The training strategy will be personalized to each enrollee, however it is anticipated that OJT, career technical education, particularly in the building trades, GED training and paid work experience will be the strategies most anticipated for use. Where interested, enrollees will be encouraged to continue their pursuit of a high school diploma or GED. Merced County Workforce Investment Board Although they had long and successful work histories, some survey respondents did not have high school diplomas. These individuals needed GED preparation and tests. It was typical for those with High School Diplomas to not meet High School levels in Skill Assessments. The individuals functioned well for the job they had, however they tested low in Math, English and Reasoning and would not be competitive in the labor force as it currently exists. Most participants will have to improve their basic skill levels, especially in Math. Individuals who were not native English speakers will require ESL training. Individuals who had computer skills in proprietary software utilized at the business from which they were laid off need basic computer skills in "off- the - shelf" software such as Microsoft Office. Orange County Workforce Investment Board During the layoffs reported by the Orange County WIB, participants in Rapid Response sessions completed Re- Employment Surveys. Of the 92 respondents, 67% of the answers indicated desire to learn new skills, including Computer skills, 40% desired interview training, 60% needed resume assistance, and over 70% requested job- search assistance. One in four indicated interest in pursuing a college degree, and nearly one in three thought they could benefit from educational or career i