In 2015, KRA launched the proprietary Knowledge2Career (K2C) Academy, offering Out-of-School Youth (OSY) customized career services, including occupational-skills development, such as On-the-Job Training (OJT) linked directly to employment with employers in high-demand industries.
Similar to KRA programs in California and Illinois, the newest K2C Academy—serving OSY, 18-to-24—is in Hartford, operated in partnership with the Connecticut Center for Advanced Technology, as an integral component of the KRA American Job Center operation, funded by Capital Workforce Partners, serving WIOA-eligible Adults and Youth and TANF recipients.
Targeting the Manufacturing Industry, K2C provides Tooling U-SME coursework, which complies with CT/DOL Pre-Apprenticeship requirements. In addition to 72 hours of classroom and hands-on training, K2C offers comprehensive case-management and employment-readiness services, including GED/High School diploma attainment.
K2C matches graduates with OJT opportunities, offering employers a unique opportunity to hire pre-screened candidates, save recruitment and training costs, and receive partial or full wage-reimbursement during the 8-week training period.
With a K2C enrollment of 40—seven females and 33 males—so far, six graduates have been placed in OJTs, with permanent employment to follow, and one has already been hired fulltime as a CNC [Computer Numeric Controlled] Operator, a position that works with drills, lathes, and/or presses that shape metals and plastics into finished products.
Artie Owens, KRA Senior Director of Workforce Operations, comments, “K2C is a proactive approach to the current and projected workforce needs of our North Central Connecticut manufacturing companies. In fact, the Carey Manufacturing Company posted recently on LinkedIn: Yesterday, a group from the “Knowledge to Career Program” came and toured Carey Manufacturing. After meeting with these bright and motivated young adults, we know the future of our industry is in good hands!.” Click Here for a Great Galley of K2C Photos!
Dr. Boone’s 20+ years’ experience in the industry is extensive and her expertise in private-, public-, and non-profit sector workforce-services organizations is unparalleled, particularly in the Baltimore–Washington Metropolitan area.
