NTCC offers new fast-track office skills certificate

The Northeast Texas Community College Continuing Education and Adult Education departments have partnered to develop a unique opportunity to begin the path to a meaningful job in entry-level office work.††Students who successfully complete the 21-hour course in general office skills will receive a certificate of completion and develop a portfolio of completed work to show prospective employers.





?This pilot program provides a first step for dedicated individuals to enter the workforce. Successful students will be able to further their skills in NTCC?s Office Technology Department as the next step to an important career," Lisa York, NTCC Continuing Education Coordinator, said.





The goal is to transition adult education students participating in ESL (English as a Second Language) or GED (General Education Development) courses into a college-level certificate that results directly in skills that employers are looking for.





"We have so many people who need help overcoming the hurdles of life.††We are excited to partner with the Continuing Education Department to provide new opportunities to improve their personal and job skills and, ultimately, their lives," Sue Barker, NTCC Director of Adult Education, said.





The program is not just open to Adult Education students. Anyone with a GED or high school diploma may enroll in the certificate course as a short-term training alternative to regular college courses.





"While we certainly hope that this will be a bridge into a more advanced certificate or degree, this 21-hour course will give people a jumpstart into a career. This is an excellent option whether you are just entering the workforce or are trying to reenter after time away," York said.





The classes will be conducted at the NTCC Community Resource Center, 105 N. Riddle, in Mount Pleasant on Tuesday and Thursday from 11:00 ? 1:00 beginning April 2 and ending on May 7.††Those who are interested should contact York at 903-434-8134 or Barker at 903-434-8251.††Financial Assistance may be available for qualified individuals.