Learn About Goodwill Employment Training Center
What is the Program?
The Goodwill Employment Training Center (GETC) is a Private Licensed School that operates two seven-month diploma programs, Administrative Office Skills and Health Care Office Skills; computer certification classes; and a Driver’s Education Program. The primary goal of the program is to prepare students to successfully enter the workforce through quality vocational educational programs. The programs prepare students for clerical and administrative positions by providing a positive learning environment and externship opportunities.
Who Does the Program Serve?
The student population consists of individuals referred from the Office of Vocational Rehabilitation, PA CareerLink, and self-referrals. In a typical year, the program averages 50 people in the 7-month programs and over 100 in the Driver’s Education program.
How Does the Program Benefit Participants and the Community?
In addition to academics leading to diplomas, and computer skills leading to certifications, confidence building through care and career development is also an important part of the program. Well-rounded students who enter the workforce are better able to support their families financially and become role models in their communities.
Special Program Accomplishments
During the last fiscal year, 15 out of 20 students earned International Computer Driver Certifications (ICDL) and two students earned both ICDLs and Microsoft Office Certifications (MOS) in Word and/or Excel.
A Personal Story …
After being unemployed for several years, Gail enrolled in the Administrative Office Skills Program in January 2010 to change careers. Gail obtained three computer certifications; the ICDL, MOS Word and MOS Excel. She graduated with a 4.0 grade point average in October 2010. Gail was able to perform all tasks required of her during her externship at UPMC Hillman Cancer Center and Education Department with the skills obtained during her time with GETC. She just celebrated her one year anniversary at UPMC as a Senior Administrative Assistant, a position she was recommended for by her externship Site Supervisor.
Learn about some other Goodwill programs:
Food Service Training, Deaf Job Readiness, Learn to Earn Youth, POWRR Program, Assessment and Vocational Evaluation, Whitehall Store Partnership, Elderberry Junction, Chapel Services, PASSAGES Program, UPMC Project SEARCH, Goodwill Literacy Initiative.
For more information on any of Goodwill's Job Training and Education programs, contact us.