Many Get Free Training, Jobs Through Vision Gibson
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If you are looking for a job, look no further than Gibson County. A new program called “Vision Gibson” has been underway for a few weeks now, and workers said their free training has already resulted in jobs. Deloris Emerson may have been laid off from her receptionist job since last March, but on Wednesday she was training to become a customer service representative. “Jobs are so scarce, that this is something I can do from home while looking for a full-time job, and still have extra income,” Emerson said. And she is not alone. Vision Gibson said about 300 people have shown interest in the program so far, and more than 100 are signed up for classes. “We’ve brought the first six people in to make sure all technology was working and just kind’ve getting it online,” Executive Director Michael Dumont said. And since then, five of those people have been hired, and one is still pending. Dumont said the same program in Perry County has generated at least 150 people being hired in one year. “We’re very optimistic,” Dumont said. “It’s a lot of talent here. Everyone’s really grateful for the opportunity and that’s what we’re all about. We’re all about bringing opportunity to the area and we think we’re going to impact a lot of people.” He said on average, those training for computer programming jobs can finish in four to five months, and customer service reps usually take about three weeks. Stephen Qualls already starts his new job next week. “It’s a good program,” Qualls said. “Even if you don’t get hired through the systems that they have available here, the training will be something you can use at other jobs.” Emerson said she is optimistic she will find something too. Organizers believe those being trained now could get hired by January 30. Even though the program is based in Gibson County, anyone can apply. Dumont said they are still taking applications for those interested in starting the job training in February, but for the rest of the year it is ongoing.
