Computer skills could mean free training

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ARCHBOLD — Unemployed and underemployed individuals with basic computer skills and a desire to start a new career may be eligible for free training. The Innovative Strategic Training Achieving Results (iSTAR) Database Programming initiative provides free tuition, books and paid, on-the-job training that prepares students for careers in computer software engineering, computer systems analyzing and computer programming. Applications are being accepted for a session that begins August 22.

To be eligible, students should have experience in Microsoft Windows, Word, Excel and Access and be able to attend an 8-hour class, Monday through Friday, for 16 weeks. Classes will be available at Northwest State Community College in Archbold and the Scott Park Campus of the University of Toledo.

“This program has the potential to impact a lot of people throughout northwest Ohio,” said Todd Hernandez, director of technical training at NSCC. “The main goal is to provide individuals with the skills they need to succeed in a career that pays a living wage.”

The iSTAR Database Programming classes are funded by a grant from the U.S. Department of Labor: Employment Training Administration. Northwest State Community College is administering the grant in partnership with WSOS Community Action. The iSTAR program covers residents in Crawford, Defiance, Fulton, Hardin, Hancock, Henry, Lucas, Ottawa, Paulding, Putnam, Sandusky, Seneca, Van Wert, Williams, Wood and Wyandot counties.

Students who complete the 16-week course will receive 18 weeks of paid, on-the-job training with the goal of continued employment. Graduates will receive industry certifications as well as a Database Programming Certificate from Northwest State. All credits earned through the program can be applied toward an associate degree at NSCC. iSTAR also offers career coaching, along with other services designed to help students succeed.

“By helping train workers, we will impact many area businesses as well, because they will have access to local talent who meet industry standards as soon as they complete the training,” said Roger Fisher, employment and training coordinator for WSOS Community Action. “We are looking for students who have the drive and aptitude for a program like this, but we need more employer partners too.”

For more details on eligibility requirements, to complete an online application or for general information, visit www.istar-initiative.com or call Sarah Stubblefield (Archbold) at 419.267.1512 or Carrie Arndt (Toledo) at 419.267.1494.