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Last updated on Friday, August 18, 2017
(STATEHOUSE) - Hoosier job seekers now have access to new resources to find better-paying jobs thanks to the recently launched Next Level Jobs initiative, according to State Rep. Chris May (R-Bedford).
May said while Indiana's unemployment rate is near record low, employers in high-need, high-wage fields are searching for qualified workers. To meet immediate and future workforce demands, Gov. Eric Holcomb recently launched the Next Level Jobs initiative, which includes nextleveljobs.org and two new grant programs.
The website connects job seekers with local training and resources to find jobs in high-demand industries. May said while a two- or four-year degree isn't for everyone, Workforce Ready Grants cover the costs of tuition for working adults earning a high-value certificate at Ivy Tech or Vincennes University.
"Over the next few years, two-thirds of all jobs will require training beyond high school. The Workforce Ready Grant can cover the costs of tuition for working adults, so they can acquire the skills and training needed to obtain higher-salaried jobs," said May, who supported legislation creating the grant. "Our hope is that this grant removes roadblocks for Hoosier workers who want to skill up while still holding down a job and providing for their family."
According to the Department of Workforce Development, 1 million job openings are expected by 2025 and, of those, about 400,000 are in high-wage, high-need fields. These industries include advanced manufacturing, agriculture, building and construction, health and life sciences, IT and business services, and transportation and logistics.
To help employers in these industries train and retain workers, the new Employer Training Grant will provide up to $2,500 per new employee to qualifying companies.
May said over the next two years, these grant programs will provide roughly $20 million to help Hoosier workers and employers meet workforce demands.
Information and applications for both grants can be found online at nextleveljobs.org.
State Rep. Chris May (R-Bedford) represents House District 65, which includes all of Brown County, most of Lawrence County and parts of Monroe, Jackson and Johnson counties.
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