CLARK COLLEGE TRAINING – THROUGH ARRA DOLLARS – SUPPORTS THE REGION’S RECOVERY

During 2009, Clark College’s Corporate and Continuing Education department received more than $700,000 in ARRA grants to provide job training for unemployed workers

VANCOUVER, Wash. – Against the backdrop of a struggling economy and increased unemployment, Clark College’s Corporate and Continuing Education Department received $716,958 in American Reinvestment & Recovery Act (ARRA) funds during 2009.

The funding was awarded to provide training to unemployed workers who are seeking new skills as dental assistants, cardiology technicians, physical therapy aides, health informatics, Six Sigma Black Belts, ophthalmic medical assistants, and energy auditors or weatherization installation professionals. ARRA funding is also supporting training for individuals preparing for the Project Management Institute’s Project Management Professional (PMP) and Certified Associate Project Manager (CAPM) certification exams.  Some of the training took place during fall of 2009; other programs will begin or continue into 2010. 

Todd Oldham, Executive Director of Corporate and Continuing Education said, “The training that we are able to provide through ARRA funds will make a real difference in the lives of more than 180 unemployed men and women in our region.” 

Clark College President Robert K. Knight said, “The college and community can be proud that Clark was selected to receive these ARRA funds based on our experience in providing training that leads to jobs.”

Knight also cited “the work done by the college’s Planning and Effectiveness area to make this possible.  We’re proud to have brought in more than half a million dollars this year to support our region.  It’s a strong note on which to end 2009 and a positive way to begin the new year.” 

####