Learn About Goodwill Employment Training Center

What is the Program?

The Goodwill Employment Training Center (GETC) is a business unit of Goodwill of Southwestern Pennsylvania. In 1996, GETC received its private school license from the Pennsylvania Department of Education State Board of Private Licensed Schools and began operations. The primary goal of GETC is to prepare students to successfully enter the contemporary world of work through quality vocational education programs.

Who Does the Program Serve?

Approximately 40 to 45 adults, from dislocated workers to those new to the workforce or re-entering the workforce, are served in a typical year. Referrals come from the Office of Vocational Rehabilitation, CareerLink (the Workforce Investment Act), and self-referrals.

How Does the Program Benefit Participants and the Community?

Students earn diplomas in Health Care and Administrative Office Skills and nationally-recognized computer certifications. Armed with skills, credentials, and confidence they join the workforce. Successful students become employed, able to help themselves and their families, and in turn, become productive members of their communities and society at large.

Special Program Accomplishments

GETC has recently switched back to a six-month diploma program after conducting 12-week training classes over the past two years. Along with returning to granting diplomas, the programs were updated to include the International Computer Driving License (ICDL) and Microsoft Office Word and Excel (MOS) computer certifications.

A Personal Story …

A single mother of two, Amy successfully completed GETC’s Office Skills Program. Prior to attending, Amy was living in poverty, depressed, unmotivated and dealing with low self-esteem. The instruction and encouragement she received as a student helped to change her life. In fact, Amy was the student speaker at her graduation. She joked in her graduation speech about how everyone was so nice and positive, that it reminded her of Mr. Rodgers Neighborhood. Amy has worked continuously since she graduated and is now employed by PNC Bank. She owns a car, has stable housing, and her children are thriving.