16 complete The Bridge Project’s first session

There are 16 newly prepared and motivated U.S. workers ready to be hired. The Bridge Project, a program to help U.S. eligible residents become better prepared for entering the workforce, has just completed its first class.

Sixteen of the 25 who originally signed up completed the course curriculum. Two have already secured jobs, with four more proceeding with interview with various employers.

CNMI Delegate Greg Kilili C. Sablan helped award the participants with their certificates of completion. Sablan was instrumental in getting the project its initial funding. “Without the congressman’s support this effort may still been on the back burner, but his confidence and commitment help make this a reality,” said Jim Arenovski, director of the Bridge Project.

Participants ranged in age from 19 through over 50 and participated in classes in customer service, workplace safety, workplace ethics, and communications as well as how to prepare a complete application.

Each individual worked with Bridge Project staff in developing a resume as well as face-to-face practice interview.

“We are very happy to see these 16 complete the courses. Our clients started off very shy but through the weeks we were able to see a number of them develop better confidence in themselves and express to other about their experiences. Although it was disappointing to see people drop out, the ones who stuck it out are finding new opportunities and employment outlook,” Arenovski said. “A successful job search requires people set some goals, understand their strengths and weaknesses and be a confident interviewee. These skills (like all skills) only get better with practice. Those who are frustrated that they are not getting hired are going up against two main issues; 1) there are not many jobs available and 2) those limited jobs are being filled with those who are best prepared and have a great interview. Those expecting to get a job with an incomplete application or resume and have poor interviewing skill, are setting themselves up for disappointment…but the Bridge Project can help.”

For those interested in participating, the next sign up and open house will be May 9 at 6pm at Room 305 in the Marianas Business Plaza. Classes are limited to 25 people. The program is eligible to U.S. eligible workers only and is intended for unemployed residents. For more information contact Arenovski at 287-7037.

The Bridge Project is funded by grants from the Department of the Interior’s Office of Insular Affairs and the CNMI Department of Commerce.[B][I] (PR)
[/I][/B]