MODESTO -- Despite Modesto's high unemployment rate, a local training firm has struggled to fill free job training and placement spots for low-income adults and youth ages 17 to 21.
Anyone who finishes the three to four months of full-day classes will earn a certificate and placement help until employed — all at no cost to the trainee, said George Rawe, director of Computer Tutor Business and Technical Institute.
Classes focus on one of three areas:
• Medical clerk: Includes medical billing skills and medical terminology
• Accounting clerk: Includes basic bookkeeping and accounts receivable programs
• Administrative assistant: Includes everyday office software programs
Rawe said despite advertising locally and sending notices to churches, schools, job offices and social service sites, the company still has dozens of openings.
Through a state grant from the Employment Training Panel, the firm has been seeking 50 low-income or unemployed young adults since Jan. 1. There were 42 positions open as of Monday. The program offers referrals for help with transportation and child care.
A federal Workforce Investment Act grant will pay for training 58 low-income young adults and offers help with bus passes.
That program began July 1 and still had 37 open seats. There is a basic skills test to enter, with tutoring available for those who need it, Rawe said.
Both programs run 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. — with no homework — at the company's north Modesto site, which is next to a Modesto Area Express bus stop, he said.
For more information or to apply, call Diana or Tammy at Computer Tutor Business and Technical Institute, (209) 545-5200.
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