CNMI State Workforce Development Board expands programs
From left, board members Denise Montenegro, secretary/treasurer Polly DLG. Masga, Frances A. Torres, Vicky Benavente, Stan Benavente, Josephine Mesta, Arlene Reyes, and Velma Palacios. Not in the photo are board members Sen. Karl King-Nabors (R-Tinian), Rep. Ralph N. Yumul (R-Saipan), vice chair Nicole Babauta, and Lorraine C. Maui. (Contributed Photo)
The Governor’s State Workforce Development Board convened on March 11, 2022 under the leadership of the newly appointed chairperson, Velma Palacios. A part of the agenda included the continued eligibility of the Northern Marianas College, Guam Marianas Training Center, and the Island Training Solutions as approved providers of training for the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act Adult, Dislocated Worker, and Youth programs administered by the Department of Labor’s Workforce Investment Agency.
In an effort to diversify training offerings to meet the growing demands of the CNMI’s workforce, the Workforce Development Board unanimously approved the programs of training for continued eligibility for all three providers to include the Northern Marianas Technical Institute.
“Eligible program participants now have access to a full array of training programs designed to meet their needs for employment or a career pathway in demand driven occupations,” said Palacios. “The board is always looking at innovative approaches to improve services that support our jobseekers and businesses.”
Labor Secretary Vicky Benavente said, “The expansion of the catalog of program offerings is one of our initiatives to strengthen the workforce development system. We encourage jobseekers to take advantage of these opportunities to retool or upgrade your skills.”
For more information on the approved programs, contact (670) 664-1708 or email cnmiwioa@dol.gov.mp or cnmiswdb@dol.gov.mp. (PR)