The Center for Rural Development is providing essential work skills training classes and financial assistance for unemployed and underemployed individuals in 14 Kentucky coal-impacted counties.

The classes include workforce skills training in Microsoft Office, QuickBooks, Learning to Lead, and Time Management & Organizational Skills and one class in information technology. For qualified individuals who live in Bell, Clay, Floyd, Harlan, Johnson, Knott, Knox, Laurel, Leslie, Letcher, McCreary, Perry, Pulaski, and Whitley counties, financial assistance is available.

“Workforce training is one of the most effective ways you can invest in yourself, your employees, and your business,” said Beka Burton, Director of Business and Community Training at The Center for Rural Development. “The cost to hire a new employee is, on average, one-third of the employee’s salary. Therefore, it is more cost effective to invest in current employees.”

Microsoft Office and QuickBooks are some of the in-demand classes requested by businesses to help improve work efficiency in the office and track, organize, and manage financial records.

“Our instructor-led classes provide opportunities for employees to receive the training they need with minimal time away from the office,” said Burton. “Trained employees are happy employees. Employees who are confident in their skills are more likely to be invested in the company, which helps increase a company’s bottom line.”

To learn more about essential work skills training or to receive an application to apply for financial assistance, contact Beka Burton at 606-677-6034 or email bburton@centertech.com. All classes are offered at a discounted rate to qualified applicants.