RochesterWorks launches new programs for employers and job seekers  

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RochesterWorks has launched two new programs for area employers and job seekers.

The Retention & Career Accelerator (RCA) Program is geared toward employers facing challenges in retaining entry-level employees and job seekers who may be facing barriers to sustained employment.

RCA Program participants, both employees (pre- and post-employment) and employers, will have access to a wide variety of resources including success coaches, workshops, career exploration, meetings and wraparound services to help address the issues threatening employee and job retention.

The RCA Program is funded through the support of the ESL Charitable Foundation, which has provided $461,000 in grant funds for a two-year demonstration pilot.

“Recruiting qualified employees is just the first step toward the success and growth of any organization,” said Dave Seeley, RochesterWorks’ executive director. “Retaining these employees provides the opportunity for sustained success and growth – as well as a positive impact on our local economy.”

Job Seekers interested in the program may register for an online information session through Eventbrite at https://RCAjs.eventbrite.com.

RochesterWorks also recently launched a new initiative focused on ensuring the growing clean energy economy in the Rochester region has a workforce to meet its demand for skilled labor.

The Renewable Energy Training Initiative (RETI), funded through a $250,000 grant from NYS Department of Labor, will seek to build the skill sets of job seekers and incumbent workers for clean energy careers.

The RETI Program will provide enhanced resources for job seekers interested in clean energy jobs, including training grants for various occupational skill sets that are in-demand and additional funding for wraparound services for transportation, childcare and other barriers to employment.

The program will prioritize job seekers living in communities underrepresented in the workforce, with a goal of 35% of program participants living in census tracts designated as Disadvantaged Communities (DACs).

The RETI Program will also allow RochesterWorks to reintroduce its Customized Training Grant Model, which allows employers to address skill gaps with existing employees. RETI funds will cover up to $10,000 in costs for industry-recognized credentials of certifications in clean energy fields.

In addition, clean energy employers will be able to tap into RochesterWorks On-the-Job Training Grant Program, which offsets up to $7,500 in costs associated with hiring and training new employees by reimbursing a portion of wages during the training period.

[email protected] / (585) 653-4021