Employment lab teaches more than computers

NEWTON — Single parents and displaced homemakers who are seeking work, or those who are uncomfortable in their current career path, are encouraged to check out the Employment Lab at Project Self-Sufficiency. The Employment Lab offers assistance for those who wish to upgrade their skills to maintain a current position or secure a promotion. The program also offers a variety of assessment tools for those who may be considering a career change, but are not sure which career path would be most suitable for their personalities and aptitudes. Project Self-Sufficiency’s state-of-the-art computer labs are available to Employment Lab participants for use in a variety of job search and assessment tasks. “Project Self-Sufficiency’s Career Center staff is trained to provide guidance and support to those who may need to work on their careers, or for those who find themselves at a crossroads, due to layoffs, or other factors,” said Patrice Green, Coordinator of Project Self-Sufficiency’s Career Training & Employment Center. “The tools we have available here can help individuals to identify career goals and work to achieve them.” Testing and assessment are important components of the Employment Lab at Project Self-Sufficiency. Individuals who are unsatisfied with their current career often find that their aptitudes are better suited for different positions. The agency uses a variety of measurement technique to assess personality traits and skills, including the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator, the Work Skills Pre-Test, the Test for Basic Adult Education, and the Work Readiness Credential. All of these tools help to assess employee’s strengths and weaknesses, including their preferences for careers, need for additional education, and readiness for different types of employment. Reports are issued and discussed with Career Center staff after each test. Once an individual has identified their needs and aptitudes, they are encouraged to take advantage of the computer labs at Project Self-Sufficiency’s Career Training & Employment Center to build and practice computer skills, compose resumes and cover letters, and conduct online job searches. The Employment Lab is available Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to noon. and 1 to 4 p.m., and Tuesday evenings, 6 to 9 p.m. Interpretation of test results is offered Tuesdays at 10 a.m. and 6 p.m. The Employment Lab is available exclusively to participants of Project Self-Sufficiency. To become a participant, or to find out more about the programs and services available at Project Self-Sufficiency, call 973-940-3500.