Through the Department of Social Services' SNAP2Work program, recipients of the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), formerly known as the food stamp program, can receive the help they need to find a new career path. Greenville Technical College (GTC) provides SNAP participants with the training and skills needed in order to become qualified for jobs that are currently available in the region and our community.
According to the South Carolina Department of Employment and Workforce, it is estimated that 45% of the jobs available in South Carolina require some vocational training, but only 29% of people in the state are qualified for those jobs. The SNAP2Work program teaches participants how to find and keep a job, and also provides education and vocational training to help develop the skills required for those careers.
"Currently there are numerous jobs available in our area - whether it is in manufacturing or construction or healthcare, but not enough people with the needed job skills to do the work," said Leslie Trant, dean of the college's corporate and career development division.
The Corporate and Career Development Division at GTC, the continuing education arm of the college, is now offering a number of SNAP2Work-eligible vocational training and certification programs, in classrooms and online, including: Sleep Technician, Forklift Operator, CNC Operator, Medical Physician Practice Clerk, Welding, Unit Secretary, South Carolina Manufacturing Certification (entry-level manufacturing production technician), Ophthalmic Medical Assistant, Medical Billing and Coding and Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA).
A number of the SNAP2Work vocational training programs can be completed in months, with some programs lasting just six weeks. Tuition assistance is available for those who qualify.
"There is money available to assist individuals to not only receive short-term job training but to train for a long-lasting career,"said Trant. "We have a wonderful relationship with employers and businesses in the area who have committed to hiring trained individuals from our programs."
For more information on the continuing education programs currently being offered at GTC contact Program Coordinator Carol Beckham or Quick Jobs with a Future Director Steve Hand at (864) 250-8800.