The College of Southern Idaho (CSI) has created an integrated Workforce Training Network that offers non-credit classes designed to develop the knowledge, skills, and attitudes required in today’s workforce. CSI’s programs are designed to meet the workforce advancement needs of those interested in upgrading skills or learning new skills.

In conjunction with the Idaho Division of Building Safety, the Bureau of Labor and Industry, and local apprenticeship committees, CSI offers Apprenticeship Training Programs for area commercial and industrial companies.

Business and industry leaders, education and training providers, and trade unions are constantly looking for ways to improve training for the workforce. CSI’s apprenticeship education and training program prepares people for careers in the crafts and trades. It addresses industry’s need to remain competitive and to invest in the development and continuous upgrade of the skills of its workforce.

Apprenticeship standards are administered by the U.S. Department of Labor’s Bureau of Apprenticeship and Training, and the State of Idaho Division of Building Safety, with help from the College of Southern Idaho and other partners in education throughout the state of Idaho. Typical apprenticeship programs include on-the-job training and related instruction.

Related instruction provides the technical knowledge that complements the on-the-job training during the apprenticeship program Courses relate to the specific craft (electrician, plumber, etc.) is a vital component that provides the apprentice with a solid background from which to continue learning and growing to meet the changing demands of the workplace.

The WDA, formed in 2007, brings together business/industry representatives, regional workforce organizations, education, and economic developments entities to create innovative ways of preparing our workforce to meet the needs of businesses tomorrow. Efforts include talent development for recruitment for new, emerging and changing industries as well as local talent retention.

The WIRED grant, awarded in 2007 by the US Department of Labor, will promote the objectives and activities of the WDA. The WIRED initiative provides substantial resources to regions/communities to help jump-start the transformation of the workforce development process to now and the future, helping to ensure trained, qualified workers for current and future business. The WIRED grant is under the direction of the WIRED Council.

TURNING POINT

As the regional labor market and economic landscape in south-central Idaho continues to change as a result of a more diversified business base, new career and job choices are available that do not require a four-year degree. These changes require a transformation in the way the region educates and trains its future workforce, and how this region provides retraining for its existing labor pool.

Numerous career opportunities in this region are available to students and adults that do not require a four-year degree, as well as support resources for those job opportunities. Turning Point has been developed as an ongoing program designed to communicate and disseminate information on workforce related issues throughout southern Idaho. Turning Point showcases and educates the various initiatives that have been started as a result of the Workforce Development Alliance (WDA) and Workforce Innovations in Regional Economic Development (WIRED) grant.

Turning Point, funded through the WIRED grant, establishes a coordinated central message and targeted themes to help:

• change perceptions among parents and students about local opportunities not requiring a four-year degree
• educate the current and potential regional workforce as to the numerous job/career possibilities and training opportunities, initially in construction, manufacturing
• identify entrepreneurial opportunities for job creation; and strengthen relationships between business/employers/industries and education/training and one-stop career centers

WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT ALLIANCE

The Workforce Development Alliance (WDA) and Idaho Tech Connect (ITC) launched a web site, Idaho Entrepreneurial Advantage, www.IdEAHelp.net, the first on line resource designed specifically for entrepreneurs. IdEA.Help is the most comprehensive source available to help entrepreneurs, innovators and inventors across southern Idaho transform their unique ideas into businesses.

Addressing the huge spectrum of needs entrepreneurs have from taking an idea or invention and turning it into a viable business, has been one of the greatest challenges for southern Idaho’s workforce and economic development sectors. This web site, specifically tailored toward entrepreneurs, is the first resource that address the depth and breadth of needs required for this unique audience.

Current and prospective entrepreneurs can assess their progress and learn more about commitments and details involved with starting their venture. The portal includes a small business startup guide, exercises to help develop a business model as well as other vital local and national resources and references.

Creating and supporting job growth in Southern Idaho is serious business. With $1.42 million in hand thanks to the support of over 70 private investors, new and expanding businesses who add base-industry jobs may tap into these available Business Plus funds. Business Plus is unique in Idaho largely because of it's 100 percent support by private investment and because grants monies go directly to businesses for job creation.

Contact: Southern Idaho Economic Development 208-324-7408

Since 1997, 20 school districts, the College of Southern Idaho and business partners have collaborated in order to expand the educational opportunities of students in its member districts. The Advanced Regional Technical Education Coalition (ARTEC)'s mission is to “collaboratively prepare all ARTEC member district students with the advanced skills, knowledge and attitudes necessary for success in the 21st Century.”

Programs in ARTEC member schools provide students who complete programs with the knowledge, employability skills and attitudes necessary to:

• pursue full-time employment with a skill certificate (where available) and/or
• enroll in a one-to-two-year technical program with earned college credit and/or
• enroll in a four-year traditional college program

• Automotive Technology
• Business/Marketing
• Cabinet Making
• Diesel Technology
• Electronics
• Health Professions
• Information Technology
• Automated Manufacturing
• Residential Construction

Students interested in being a part of the half-day program which features both technical training and some integration of academic subjects through relevant, real-life projects are urged to contact Claire Major at cmajor@csi.edu or Mike Gibson at mgibson@csi.edu.

Contact: Southern Idaho Economic Development Organization at 208-324-7408 or toll free at 866-768-8443.