Unemployment for people with disabilities (PWD) remains chronically high and on the rise while the overall national unemployment rate continues to decline and is now at a historical low. Most PWD that are employed are in low skill jobs at or near minimum wage.
The Living and Learning Enrichment Center (a Northville nonprofit which helps teens and adults with autism and related challenges) has partnered with Patrick Romzek, a retired executive from Cisco Systems, the global leader in networking and telecommunications solutions. Pat, who lives in Northville and has a child with a disability, is driven to transform the lives of PWD and is lending his expertise to this program. Together they are planning to offer IT training for PWD throughout the metro area that will result in globally recognized Cisco technology certifications in cybersecurity (CCNA-Security). This program will be the first of its kind to be offered in Michigan and perhaps the entire Midwest.
The Living and Learning Enrichment Center is working with Michigan Rehabilitation Services (MRS) and Michigan Career & Technical Institute (MCTI). MRS, a division of the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services, is the office responsible for job skills training and placement specifically for PWD. MCTI, near Kalamazoo, is their post-secondary educational center for PWD offering career assessment services that help students explore job options.
The program will consist of 9 months of classroom training starting this September followed by 3 months of internships primarily at partnering organizations. Apprenticeships may be offered by organizations looking for a longer commitment. The ultimate goal is for permanent employment locally for all of our students in cybersecurity.
Program Highlights:
- 9 month training starting in September-5 days a week
- Students will earn IT certifications can lead to internships and paid positions
- Average starting salary after completion is 40,000
- Training is free as long as student registers with MRS and maintains satisfactory performance
- Exceptional Academy is looking for 15 students across metro Detroit
Current seniors or alumni who have earned a diploma and have an interest/aptitude in IT should attend one of information sessions at Living and Learning Enrichment Center in Northville
=Sign up to an informational meeting to learn more! =
