MEXICO – A program aimed at helping unemployed or underemployed people learn the basic skills for getting and keeping a job will be launched March 24, thanks to a partnership of local agencies and the Workforce Investment Board.

The pilot program for the area, known as WorkReady, offers “soft skills” for people. It is part of the River Valley Growth Council’s plan to make a labor force available for any company that plans to locate in the area, said council director Diane Ray.

It is also one way to move Region 9’s adult education students into the local work force, said Nancy Allen, adult education director at the vocational school, one of the major partners in the plan.

The 60-hour program will offer training in time management, promptness, attendance, proper attire, as well as strength and weakness assessment, career path development and a myriad of other skills.

“Some people get jobs for a few weeks, then leave or get fired. Maybe the job wasn’t the right fit,” Allen said.

The class will be offered through Region 9 and taught by Jolan Ippolito, Rumford, who has worked in both education and business. Her classes will be augmented by guest speakers, who will discuss topics such as expectations of employers and why certain rules are in place for employment.

Part of the program, funded by a $4,000 grant, will guarantee that those who complete the 60-hour class will be interviewed for a job by a member of the business community.

The program is seeking five to 10 business people who would be willing to sit on an advisory council. Responsibilities include reviewing resumes and portfolios, providing pertinent information for the class, and meeting two or three times a year.

Allen said about a dozen business people, representing banking, manufacturing, hospitality, insurance and finance industries turned out for the WorkReady kick-off breakfast Feb. 6.

Participants are expected to be drawn from the Maine Career Center, Region 9 adult education and the local ASPIRE program, and individuals who want to improve their job seeking and job holding skills.

Participants will be screened for math and reading skills before being accepted. A high school or general education development certificate is generally required. The 12 to 15 people who take part in the no-cost program must also commit to attending class three hours a day, five days a week, for four weeks.

“This helps the employer by getting someone who can be retrained and knows what’s required in a job. It costs money when people quit,” Allen said.

Introducing the program to the area shows that the growth council is being proactive, Ray said.

“If someone comes with jobs, it shows that we are prepared,” she said.

If the first program is successful, Allen said another will likely be offered.

Businesses or individuals who want to take part should phone Allen at 364-2012.