During her presentation at the annual Society for Human Resource Management annual conference on Thursday, WIA Executive Director Edith Deleon Guerrero said the agency offers on-the-job training and subsidizes its cost.
She said college is not for everyone and some prefer to work after high school.
“We are encouraging business establishments to take advantage of this opportunity simply by writing a request letter to participate in the program with us,” Deleon Guerrero said.
She said companies can include what they specifically want in trainees so WIA can match them with student applicants.
Deleon Guerrero said WIA’s focus is the “Power of E3” — Education, Employment and Economic development.
WIA targets at-risk youth, veterans and individuals with substantial barriers to employment.
“Some of the kids have problems and domestic issues. But these kids have dreams and want to help their families. We help them be competitive in the workforce through training,” Deleon Guerrero said.
WIA partners with Northern Marianas College, the Northern Marianas Trades Institute, public and private schools, public and private sector employees, and other state partner programs to leverage resources, she added.
WIA aims to improve basic skills necessary for high school graduation and employment success through training on demand-driven careers, she said.
WIA aligns education and training to meet the needs of the private sector, she added.
Deleon Guerrero said WIA is not a manpower agency but it helps facilitate training to create a competent workforce in the CNMI.
To participate in the program or for more information, visit the WIA office at Government Bldg. No. 1215 on Capital Hill. You may also call 664-1708/57/07 or 664-1704/05/00 or visit http://www.wia.gov.mp.
