Recently I went to the Wynne Unit which is part of the Texas Department of Criminal Justice. It is the second oldest prison in Texas, and from an architectural perspective, the building was old and beautiful. –While there, I worked with some of the inmates on their soft skills and the services that are available at Workforce Solutions.
It was really nice to see how attentive the participants were when we talked about how resumes and job applications are similar as well as how they are different. Several of the participants assisted me by reading a prepared script to answer the question that many employers ask, “Tell me about yourself.” We also discussed appropriate interview attire versus attire one wears on the job site.
Eventually the men in the Wynne Unit will serve their time and get out. Hopefully by then they will be ready to begin job searching and feel comfortable applying and interviewing. One of the great things about the Wynne Unit is that it offers workforce programs on campus that provide career training so they will be prepared to re-enter society and secure employment.. A great example is their license plate factory, which produces our Texas license plates and vehicle registration stickers, and their mechanic shop for diesel repair (which by the way is a high skill high growth occupation for our Gulf Coast Region). By working in the factory or mechanic shop, the inmates gain valuable training that they can use once released.
Many great opportunities are available while in jail at the Wynne Unit to succeed in future jobs and careers. Once out of jail, Workforce Solutions staff can assist with finding jobs that are suitable based upon the customer’s background and experience. Any job seeker – with or without a background – in the Gulf Coast Region has access to our Workforce Solutions offices. Job search skills seminars, education and training, career planning and guidance are all available free of charge. WorkInTexas (the largest job bank in the State of Texas) is also accessible to all job seekers. Our qualified staff members are here to help you get a job, keep a job, or get a better job.
Velta Worley is a member of the Regional Navigator Team specializing in training, educating, and assisting community partners, Workforce Solutions staff, and job seekers throughout the 13 county region with adult education and literacy, and employment for people experiencing homelessness. She has over 8 years corporate management experience, and over 9 years with Workforce Solutions as a Facilitator, Technical Assistant, and Office Manager, and holds a Bachelor of Science degree from Sam Houston State University.
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