Narrative: a. 1.

The state will use several professional development activities for Job Service staff:

• All staff who serve job seekers in the resource areas and/or reception desks are required to complete the Reception and Resource Area Certification Program.
• Business Services Representatives are required to obtain the Workforce Development Specialist certification from a customized training program developed by the University of Minnesota.
• Classroom presentation skills training based on the state’s Creative Job Search workshop will continue to be offered to all employees who facilitate workshops.
• All Job Service employees have access to the Skill–soft online training platform. Training specific to each employee is documented in the employee’s Individual Development Plan.
• Ongoing training in the areas of dealing with diverse populations, accessibility, safety, and financial literacy will continue to be offered to all employees.
• Training will continue to be provided in specific program areas such as Migrant Seasonal Farmworkers and Trade Adjustment Assistance.
• Staff will continue to be encouraged to attend the state’s annual Job Counselor training event, which includes keynote speakers and breakout sessions on multiple topics related to their work with job seekers and businesses.

The goal of these training activities is to ensure that staff are able to effectively assist job seekers with improving their job search skills, obtaining the best job possible, and progressing in a career pathway. These training activities will also provide employers with access to qualified candidates and strengthen their business. The delivery methods of these trainings will include on–the–job training, conference calls, and web based technology such as Skype and WebEx.