Computer training opens up high-tech job opportunities to those who would traditionally find the skills beyond their means. by KEVIN BROWN Special to the Register When Connie Crow, Des Moines, first became involved in the Next Step Computer Training Program, she didn't realize that when the project coordinator said he would do anything to guarantee her success in the program, that he meant it. "They're really there to work for you," Crow said. "First of all, it's free to those who qualify and the instructors and training are great. But, they also arrange for child care, transportation and other basics. They also gave me gift baskets one time and helped me get furniture when I needed it. They really came through." Crow now works at the KVI Satellite Center right next door to the program at 1714 6th Ave., Des Moines. She works on processing claims for the military. The job pays very well, offers her an excellent working environment and provides her a secure, long-term future. "Its fun working here and I'm learning a lot," she said. "I'm in this for the long-term."
That is the same sentiment that most of the other graduates of the program give, Willy Johnson, project coordinator said. "We're teaching people the skills necessary for the new millennium. We're about providing jobs and helping people to make a better life." Tony Gales, executive director of the Mid-City Vision Coalition, said the program began as a result of a $138,000 grant awarded to the coalition specifically for computer training. The money came from federal funding made available to groups and businesses operating in Enterprise Zones (areas, especially in inner cities, that are targeted for development with special financing and other incentive programs), through the city. First Step began its training Oct. 1, 1997. "Our goal is to graduate 80- to 100-individuals in finding and holding high quality jobs in the computer field," Gales said. To be a success, Gales said, the coalition knew that the program had to be as much about meeting human needs as it was about training people.
"It's hard to concentrate on learning new job skills if you're worried about paying the rent, or how to get to work, or who is watching your kids. A program had to help with all of it and the training had to be free," he said. Besides training, the program provides free child care, bus tokens, hair cuts, clothing purchases, pre-employment training and a host of other benefits. "In short, we provide any benefits needed so that nothing becomes a roadblock for our students," Gales said. To further support the program and to give it a higher chance for success, Gales and Johnson said the Greater Des Moines Chamber of Commerce Federation was tapped to provide interviewing and resume' services in addition job searches. "The chamber has a coordinator hired who works with the students on refining resumes', learning interviewing tips and skills, and in actually locating and setting up interviews for the students with a list of metro employers who have expressed an interest in the program and a need for trained computer professionals," Gales said. Johnson said that this unique collaboration of business and non-profit may be a model for other cities to follow. "We have a very unique relationship here -- a very rare blend of business and agency cooperation. Our students, when they complete the program, master the skills and provide their own work ethic, will be able to land quality jobs and build a secure future for themselves and for their families."
"It's hard to concentrate on learning new job skills if you're worried about paying the rent, or how to get to work, or who is watching your kids. A program had to help with all of it and the training had to be free"
"...this unique collaboration of business and non-profit may be a model for other cities to follow."
"The program is 50-50 males to females and we have a diverse ethnic mix including populations such as black, anglo, Japanese, Hispanic, etc. I've very pleased by this."
Crow is living proof. "I strongly suggest that anyone at all should apply for this program," Crow said. "It's working for me -- I can't say enough good things about it. I've told all of my friends about it and one has applied." To date, First Step has held three graduations. On Jan. 18, 8 students graduated from the 10-week training program. On March 18, 24 more students earned their wings. And, on June 1, another 30 students will be pounding the pavement armed with their newly earned computer skills. Johnson said the students of the program run the gamut of people living in Des Moines. "The program is 50-50 males to females and we have a diverse ethnic mix including populations such as black, anglo, Japanese, Hispanic, etc. I've very pleased by this. We want this program to be molded to the community that created it.
The program is promoted largely by word-of-mouth and by agencies, Johnson said. He said the program is advertised on KUCB radio, by direct mail flyers, by Promise Jobs programs and by probation officials. Other agencies, such and child-care and social services, also provide a forum for the program. "I learned about the program when I saw a flyer posted at the Tiny Tots Day Care Center where I was taking my children," Crow said. "They were going to host a program at the center and I went. About 25 people attended and a good percentage of those people actually pursued Next Step. I was excited about the training and the support that they promised." Promise is what Next Step is all about, Johnson said. "We're looking to search the community and to be an asset here," Johnson said. "We want to teach the skills of tomorrow because pretty soon if you don't know how to operate a computer, you're going to be left behind. Jobs are the bottom line."