Creating Positive Impacts for
Lane County Businesses

Lane County businesses benefit from Lane Workforce Partnership’s investment in training opportunities for adults and youth.

WorkSource Lane

Every year, WorkSource Lane serves as a vital resource for over 1,000 businesses seeking recruitment services. The dedicated professionals at WorkSource Lane collaborate directly with local employers, screening thousands of potential job candidates daily to ensure that referrals align with employer specifications. Moreover, WorkSource Lane offers a comprehensive infrastructure, including offices, classrooms, computer labs, and conference rooms. These facilities enable businesses to conduct interviews, evaluate candidates, and carry out new employee orientations, fostering a streamlined and efficient hiring process.

Testimonial: With an impressive array of skills and credentials, Jody faced the challenge of sporadic work and frequent relocations, making it difficult to secure a fulfilling job that offered a livable wage. However, with the assistance of WorkSource Lane staff, Jody’s prospects took a turn for the better. When a local business had an opening for an accounting assistant position, the staff at WorkSource Lane referred her to the On-The-Job Training (OJT) program. This move gave Jody the edge she needed to stand out in a competitive job market.

True to her profession as an accountant, Jody observed how the OHT program struck a perfect balance. She recognized that it involved investments from both sides: the company say her as a valuable asset and treated her as such. This mutual respect fostered an environment where Jody could thrive professionally and contribute to the company’s success.

Jody is grateful for the support and encouragement she received from the staff at WorkSource Lane. Through their efforts, Jody has not only found professional fulfillment but also experienced the joy of being recognized and valued for her expertise.


On-the-Job Training

From July 1, 2022 to June 30, 2023, a total of 19 companies in Lane County utilized the OJT program, receiving reimbursements of up to $5,000 for each newly hired individual. This program empowered local businesses to attract new talent, thereby effectively addressing their recruitment needs and facilitating expansion endeavors.

Testimonial: Terra’s journey brought her back to the Lane County area, where she sought a career beyond the realm of academic research. It was during this pursuit that she learned about a small, startup company and reached out to them. While the company recognized Terra’s knowledge and scientific research experience, they had concerns about her familiarity with their specific field of work. Enter the OJT program. Through this program, she received the necessary training and acquired the skills to thrive in her new role. Reflecting on her experience, Terra says, “My experience with the OJT program just goes to show that almost anyone starting with a new employer will require some level of additional training. Even with my level of education, without the hands-on training and mentoring from my employer, I would not have had the opportunity to learn this unique and fascinating work. The OJT program is an easy process with seamless service. The 30- and 60-day reviews were helpful as they pinpointed my progress and provided the opportunity to review my learning goals with my employer so we both knew I was on track. I would recommend this program to anyone, job seeker and employer, searching for ways to maximize potential skills and growth potential.”

 


Identifying Talent through the National Career Readiness Certificate

Through Lane Workforce Partnership’s investment and outreach efforts, the positive impact on individuals and businesses has been remarkable. Over 8,600 individuals have successfully obtained the National Career Readiness Certificate (NCRC). This certification has become a tool for the 280+ participating businesses in Lane County, enabling them to evaluate prospective employees’ essential skills prior to hiring. By utilizing the NCRC, employers ensure that new hires posses the fundamental competencies necessary to thrive in their roles. If you are interested in learning more about this program or wish to incorporate the NCRC into your hiring process, please contact WorkSource Lane at (541) 686-7601.

Testimonial:  After earning the NCRC, Nick’s determination led his to receive a scholarship from WorkSource Lane to help with commercial driving school. He carefully approached each required element and his hard work has paid off.

Reflecting on his experience, Nick acknowledges the role that WorkSource Lane played in his success. “I was at WorkSource Lane every day, and without the scholarship, I wouldn’t have been able to achieve my Commercial Driver’s License (CDL).” Nick wholeheartedly endorses the support and resources offered by WorkSource Lane and encourages individuals to connect with WorkSource Lane.


Promoting Industry Opportunities to Lane County’s Youth

Through the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) youth services contracts, we are dedicated to supporting local businesses by providing them with paid youth interns. These interns not only gain invaluable insights into various industries but also actively contribute to the daily operations of the companies. In Program Year 2022/2023, 12 interns were successfully placed in local businesses, offering employers a chance to educate and mentor young individuals in diverse fields. These industries ranged from construction, landscaping, and clerical work to health care, veterinary medicine, culinary arts, customer service, and small engine repair. By bridging the gap between education and employment, the internship program fosters a thriving environment where both businesses and youth can thrive.