QCC Awarded TRAIN Grant to Prepare Underemployed for Healthcare Careers

Quinsigamond Community College was recently awarded $100,000 in grant funding from the Healy-Driscoll Administration for workforce training programs for adults. QCC will use the funds to enroll 30 individuals in a home health aide training program. The program will be completely free for participants. The grants are part of the Training Resources and Internships Network (TRAIN) program, with a total of $1.5 million awarded to 13 community colleges in the Commonwealth.

QCC will focus on recruiting underemployed and unemployed individuals in the Worcester and Southbridge areas. Recruitment will also target populations that have historically encountered barriers to employment. Such populations include veterans, single parents, people of color, people with disabilities, women, people with low incomes and limited or non-English speakers.

“Offering these types of programs that support our underprivileged and underserved populations enriches the lives of the participants and their families, while also helping our economy to thrive,” said QCC President Luis G. Pedraja, Ph.D.

The program takes five weeks to complete and includes assistance with resumes and job interviews. Employers will meet with participants for an inside look at careers in the healthcare industry.

“Classes will be taught in both English and Spanish to not only prepare individuals for meaningful careers, but also foster inclusivity and diversity within the healthcare landscape,” said QCC’s Director of Workforce Development Operations Kathleen O’Connor.

Visit QCC’s Workforce Development and Continuing Education to learn more about the programs offered.