By Dawn Burleigh

The Orange Leader

 

PINEHURST — Texas Workforce offers an internship program to help 16-24 year olds fine employment.

“Any employer in the area, public, private, non-profit, are eligible to participate,” Texas Workforce Center Manager Greg Steward said. “We have approximately 10 on sites now and placing 10 more by the end of the month.”

Steward said there is space for more individuals interested in participating.

Bryan Green of Pinehurst Public Works said the city has used the program for a year and a half now.

“It lasts 12 weeks,” Bryan said. “When one finishes, we call Ms. Booker to let her know we are ready for the next one.”

Elwood McCullough, 20, said the experience has been advantageous.

“I enjoy the experience,” McCullough said. “And I am gaining experience. I can see working for a city in my future.”

Bryan said the interns help with painting fire hydrants and reading meters.

“It helps with the workload,” Bryan said.

John Toney of Pinehurst Public Works said McCullough is an excellent worker.

“He will do anything when asked and doesn’t mind doing it,” Toney said.

“The city wants to help those looking for experience,” Bryan said.

McCullough said he was grateful to Ms. Booker and the city of Pinehurst for the opportunity to work.

Booker works for the Texas Workforce Center and helps find internships within the county.

City Administrator Robbie Hood said the program is beneficial.

“It provides a needed and beneficial program for young people in our community,” Hood said. “Partnering with Texas Workforce allows the city to utilize state resources to help the city extend services further.”

To be eligible to participate, one must be 16-24 years of age. Texas Workforce requires applicants to take the TABE test and a two week Job Readiness Workshop.

The TABE test is also used by public service agencies who are guiding people into adult education programs, such as getting a GED, going to trade school, etc. TABE tests skills and aptitudes in reading, math, and English, as you’ll apply them in the workforce or classroom.

“The workshop helps teach soft skills and the do’s and don’ts of workplace etiquette,” Greg Steward said.