More than 40 participants in the Ready to Work program administered by CLM Workforce Connection have earned their credentials from the State of Florida. Two of the recipients in the tri-county region were the first to receive their certificates recently during a recognition ceremony at the Workforce offices in Ocala.
 
“This is a journey that began for us and for you in October with the very first group,” said Charlotte Hearn, deputy director for Withlacoochee Workforce Development Authority, the service provider for Workforce. “You waited and we waited for this celebratory moment, and here we are.”
 
The Ready to Work Program is an assessment of basic skills, including reading for information, applied math and the ability to locate information. Review sessions are available through self-paced, internet based lessons for any of the testing areas in which participants believe they need further development. The actual test is then proctored at the Workforce Connection offices in Citrus, Levy and Marion Counties.  Participants in the program can earn a bronze, silver or gold level certificate demonstrating mastery of the basic workforce skills. Each certificate is signed by Gov. Charlie Crist.
 
Sibil James, one of the recipients, is working toward a goal of becoming a certified nursing assistant while Tiffany Broadbent, another recipient, is considering a career in accounting. Both women were pleased to be recognized as the first local participants to receive their Ready to Work certificates. “I think it’s great, and very exciting,” said Broadbent, while James added she was “very honored” at the ceremony.
 
Employers wanting to have their applicants screened using Ready to Work or to take advantage of introductory job profiles for specific positions should contact Nicole Maragh at 840-5762.