Western PA Career Transition Services (WPA/CTS) has a contract with the U.S. Department of Labor to service students completing programs in Job Corps to help them get a job and keep a job.  WPA/CTS is located at the Pittsburgh Job Corps Center in East Liberty.  WPA/CTS assists these students and any others who have attained skill training at other Job Corps facilities and then have returned to the Western PA area.  WPA/CTS 2011 Fall Job Fair is a fantastic vehicle for securing employment, learning about the military, and continuing into higher education for the Job Corps students.   About 350 students attended the fair.

One of four centers in PA, the Pittsburgh Job Corps trains youth in three industry clusters:  Health Occupations, Culinary Arts/Hospitality, and Construction.  65 exhibitors came to center on Wednesday, September 28, 2011 to seek possible employees, trainees and military recruits.  “This is a terrific opportunity when employers come to us”, said Chris Cavendish, the event organizer and Job Developer.  “The ultimate goal in Job development is connecting students with employers.  This event is like having the ‘home field advantage’-bringing the jobs to the students where (students) can open up and talk about their skills and goals”, he said.
 
The 2011 Fall Job Fair has become a one stop shop.  Students learn firsthand from recruiters what the companies need.  The students have the opportunity to discuss skills and expectations.  “Our students gain industry certifications which are highly respected and valued by employers in this area,” said Molly Taleb, center director.

“It is always a delight to host employer partners and other Job Corps supporters”, said Kathy Eury, WPA/CTS project director.  “To see this number of participants, given today’s economic climate, gives us hope that the training our students receive is state of the art and meeting hiring needs,” she said.  Ruth Hereda from Community Living and Support Services was delighted to attend.  This is the second year her organization has participated and she loves coming to PJCC.  “The students are respectful and professional”, she said.  Rose Scheyer from Achieva said, “I’m glad I came.  This is the first time I feel like I have accomplished something at a Job fair.  Not only did I have the opportunity to talk with possible hires but I was also able to network with other organizations.”  Nurse Staffing representatives were looking for “clones” of their recent PJCC hire.  “DaNika has the right attitude and drive that we look for in new hires.  We would certainly like to have more like her on our staff”, said Melissa Shinton.

Job Corps is funded by the U.S. Department of Labor and provides career technical training for youth ages 16-24.  For admissions information contact Josh Comer at 412-441-8779.