Program Offers Job Training For Unemployed Chicagoans
CHICAGO (CBS) -- The job outlook is dismal, but there is hope, if you have the right skills for the jobs available.
As CBS 2's Roseanne Tellez reports, there's a program in Chicago that re-trains people who thought they had jobs for life, only to be downsized out of the workplace.
"Me not finding a job was nowhere in the realm of my brain," said Berlinda Vergis.
Unemployoment wasn't easy for Vergis. She says she'd worked since she was 14, spending most of her career as an executive assistant.
How scary was the prospect of retraining in something new?
"Once I got into the program and I realized that I was a babe in the woods, I was just terrified," she said.
Vergis is a student at Chicago Career Tech, which targets people who made $25,000 to $80,000 a year. Most thought they had careers for life. The average age of their students is 44.
"You're going to have to be a really good time manager, I'll tell you that. And, plus, you're starting over," said Vergis.
Students who get in the 4- to 6-month program receive classroom and hands-on training in technology-based careers. They can continue to receive unemployment, and even get an average stipend of $225 a week to help with expenses.
But the right outlook is a requirement.
Director of Marketing Amanda Luther said, "We're looking for folks that are eager to learn, eager to be retrained in new skills. That can sometimes be intimidating, but we want folks who are eager and dedicated."
"Your social life will go by the wayside," says one recent grad. "You're in class or busy with activities six days a week. There is homework. But it's well worth the effort."
Dana Mallinckrodt was hired as a commercial health insurance specialist while going through the program.
"I had the job before I completed the program," Mallinckrodt said.
With a big sigh, she said it's a good feeling to have a job.
"Very relaxing," she said.
Chicago Career Tech is accepting applications right now for the upcoming session in October. They have about 300 spots available, but you do have to live in Chicago to participate. Click here for more information on how to apply.
