New workplace training program available

By Susan Hofforth
As the economy goes through its slump, many people are being forced to make new plans. Unexpected unemployment means that people are forced to explore new career paths and accept changes in their lives they were not expecting. In doing so, they may need to learn new skills, and some industries interested in hiring may not have the means to provide the training. Fortunately, there is a new workplace training program available from Ballad Consulting Group that can help with both these problems.
“We are working in the interests of a better local economy,” said Sheldon Hajar, an employment specialist with Ballad. “The two programs that we have available can really help in bringing new jobs to the area.”
Ballad’s workplace training program gives employers in Whitecourt, Barrhead, Westlock, and the surrounding areas the chance to find and train new employees and receive financial assistance during the process. By choosing to hire through the program, the employer will get assistance in the search process, and can receive up to 26 weeks of funding to help offset the costs of training new hires. The amount of funding will depend on the needs of the employee hired. “The program is a great benefit to the employer who will be able to have most of the initial costs absorbed,” said Hajar. “It will also benefit the employee who can access workplace training to help him or her find and learn a new job. We are also there to help if the employee has trouble adapting to the changes and stresses that a new job path brings.”
Another option available to employers through Ballad is the work experience program. In this program, there is no cost to the employer, and WCB coverage during the work experience is provided. “This is another great option to finding employees at no cost,” said Hajar.
Contact the Employment Specialists at Ballad to get started in the program. Once you enter into the contract, they will visit your workplace and assist you with developing a training plan for the new employees and provide follow¬-up and support throughout.
For more information about the program, call Ballad Consulting Group at 780-¬778-¬8311.