Career Accelerator Program Helps Clients with GED
Anna* was working to make ends meet but had dreams of pursuing a career in banking. However, she didn’t have her GED. While working with JFCS Career Consultant Jeanne Williams, Anna learned about the Career Accelerator program, a partnership program between Literacy Pittsburgh and JFCS Career Development Center offering a 12-week fast track GED class for individuals looking to increase their opportunities for employment.
Anna needed assistance in GED preparation but was also motivated by the opportunity to study and pursue her career goals at the same time through this new program. Unlike many other GED courses, Career Accelerator fast-tracks the process and provides additional support beyond just the GED test. The program helps participants achieve their long-term career goals by giving them extra support through career counseling, even after they’ve completed the GED class.
How It Works
The participants meet twice a week on Zoom, studying math education during the first half of the class. Then, JFCS Career Development Center staff present on various career-related topics, including self-care, financial literacy, and more. Finally, an English teacher finishes the session with some writing lessons. Participants also receive access to computers and the internet. When Anna’s computer stopped working, she thought she wouldn’t be able to complete her GED prep test on time. But JFCS Career Development Center was able to assist her with a Chromebook to get her back on track.
Anna is continuing in her GED studies and working with Jeanne during counseling sessions to identify jobs, structure her resume and cover letter to align with job descriptions, and network with people in her targeted industry.
Get The Help You Need
The Career Accelerator program is perfect for candidates like Anna, giving them additional career support while they complete this step of their education. To provide incentive, Literacy Pittsburgh will even pay for the GED tests of participants get a certain score on the practice test. The GED preparation, plus the continuing career services, help participants take advantage of their new skills to achieve their goals.
Interested in the Career Accelerator program? The next cohort starts on February 1st! The course is free (not including test fees for the GED). In addition to education classes, you’ll also receive career counseling, job search and resume help, access to computers and internet, and personalized attention to support you through the process. To sign up, visit startclassnow.org or call 412-393-7600.
*Name changed for confidentiality