Computer and Job Skills Classes Help Workers Launch Into New Careers

Through generous grants from the Arconic Foundation, the Adult Education Foundation of Blount County has provided free job training classes such as Gains and Step Up. These courses provided adults training in Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and email, as well as resume and cover letter development, job search, and interview skills classes. Participants also had the opportunity to earn a nationally recognized certificate from Northstar Digital Literacy by demonstrating key computer competencies. 

Our latest round of courses (Step Up) ran from fall 2016 - spring 2018, where we proposed to serve 45 participants. However, the courses were so popular that we served 343 participants, many of whom obtained jobs, got promotions, or enhanced their skills for their current work positions. Over 300 participants earned certificates.

Our previous round, Gains, was an intensive, six-week program that served 80 participants and helped them gain employability and soft skills so that they may gain employment. Many of the participants had been out of work for months or years. The program was offered in 12 6-week rounds from October 2014 – November 2016. 

The Foundation helps residents of Blount county to up their game and launch their careers forward on a path to success.