NYPL Blogs: Posts by Magdalene Chan

The Job Market for People with Disabilities: A Personal Journey

Magdalene Chan, Science, Industry and Business Library — Thu, 27 Jun 2013 12:01:46 -0400

The Job Market for People with Disabilities is a personal journey of Steve McEvoy who was born with mild to moderate cerebral palsy and non-verbal learning disability. In the beginning of this article he mentioned four hallmarks that hold the best chance of improving the discouraging unemployment rate that people with disabilities face. Here is his Personal Journey:

The unemployment rate of people with disabilities has far outpaced that of people without disabilities. In order for people with disabilities to transition to employment, they need an awareness of how their disability affects them, a support network, knowledge of their strengths and practice in disability disclosure.

While IDEA has done much to integrate students with disabilities into education and society as a whole, IDEA is an entitlement law based, with no need for students to disclose their disability or self advocate to receive services, the majority of students with disabilities, have little idea what their disability is, how it affects them, or will affect them as they move from education to employment. So when they graduate from high school, or reach age 22, and must self-disclose to receive services under Section 504, they are completely unprepared and all too often end up living in poverty… read more at Education Update.

It is important for people with disabilities to understand Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and Section 504 when transition from education to employment. Know the Rights that Protect Individuals with Disabilities from Discrimination, provided by the Office for Civil Rights, will give you important information.

The New York State Department of Labor, Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) provides information to businesses and job seekers/unemployed.

JAN’s (Job Accommodation Network) Accommodation and Compliance Series provides specific information for various types of disabilities.

ADA.gov United States Department of Justice Civil Rights Division provides Information and Technical Assistance on the Americans with Disabilities Act.

The above resources will help people with disabilities understand their rights in the workplace and learn more about accommodation needs and ideas.

For information on education and employment. please visit Job Search Central at 188 Madison Avenue and 34th Street.

PTSD Awareness Month: Remembering the Disabilities We Can't Always See

Magdalene Chan, Science, Industry and Business Library — Wed, 26 Jun 2013 09:58:08 -0400

June is PTSD Awareness Month, which aims to raise awareness of PTSD and its effective treatments so that everyone can help those affected. PTSD is an anxiety condition that can develop in response to exposure to an extreme traumatic event such as military combat, violent personal assaults, terrorist attacks, disasters or accidents. And while PTSD is not unique to veterans and military service members, it is often characterized as one of the "invisible wounds of war" and a "signature injury" of the conflicts in Iraq and Afghanistan.

We will see a growing number of returning service members coping with the challenges of PTSD as they reintegrate into civilian life, today and for many years to come. Because those challenges may impact them in the workplace, it is important for employers to understand the needs of workers with PTSD. Not all individuals with PTSD need workplace supports, but for those who do, such supports can be critical to employment success. Furthermore, employment itself can play a key role in the recovery and rehabilitation of someone experiencing PTSD. (Read more from the Department of Labor.)

The following is an outline of Employees with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder from the publication in the Accommodation and Compliance Series, which is designed to help employers determine effective accommodations and comply with Title 1 of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).

Information about Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)

What is PTSD?
How prevalent is PSTD?
What are the symptoms of PTSD?

PTSD and the Americans with Disabilities Act

Is PTSD a disability under the ADA?
Are employees with PTSD required to disclose their disability to the employers?
Can an employer ask an employee with PTSD to submit to a medical examination?
Do employees with PTSD pose a direct threat to themselves or others?
How and when does a person with PTSD ask for an accommodation?
Can an employer discipline an employee with PTSD who violates conduct or performance standards?

Questions to consider:

Accommodation ideas:

Transportation Issues:

Situations and Solutions:

Products:

For information on employment, please visit Job Search Central at 188 Madison Avenue and 34th Street.

50 Years of National Small Business Week

Magdalene Chan, Science, Industry and Business Library — Thu, 20 Jun 2013 11:19:36 -0400

This year marks the 50th anniversary of National Small Business Week. Although things have certainly changed since President Kennedy signed the first Presidential Proclamation in 1963, one thing that hasn't changed is America's entrepreneurial spirit and the important role that small business owners play in our economy and our communities.

This week, President Obama has continued America's tradition of honoring the spirit and success of American small business owners by proclaiming June 17–21 to be 2013's National Small Business Week. Small businesses have always been the backbone of our economy, and we know that the success of America's small businesses is critical to growing our economy and increasing our nation's global competitiveness… read more from Small Business Administration blog post.

In his proclamation, Obama called upon all Americans to recognize the contributions of small businesses to the competitiveness of the American economy with appropriate programs and activities. The following is Presidential Proclamation—National Small Business Week 2013.

In America, we believe that anyone willing to work hard and take risks can get their good idea off the ground and into the marketplace. It is a notion that has made our Nation bold and bright, and the best place to do business for generations—from small-town storefronts to pioneering startups that keep our country on the cutting edge. This week, we celebrate America's entrepreneurial spirit, and we recommit to helping our small businesses get ahead.

My Administration has been a proud partner in that important work from day one. We have cut taxes for small businesses 18 times, broadened their access to capital, and provided billions in loans so they can grow and hire. We have helped companies break into new markets abroad and export their products all over the world. Every step of the way, we have focused on making Government work better for business through initiatives like Startup America and BusinessUSA—groundbreaking programs that connect entrepreneurs to resources that can spur their success… (read more)

For information on starting a small business, please visit the Science, Industry and Business Library, New York Public Library. In this business library (SIBL), Small Business is WHAT WE DO BEST. SIBL is a premier public business library with comprehensive print materials, e-resources, and services for start-ups and established businesses seeking expansion.

The New York Public Library with its sponsor, the Citi Foundation,host New York StartUP 2013 Business Plan Competition for New York-based startup entrepreneurs with cash prizes totaling over $30,000.

SIBL's NYC Small Business Resource Center, smallbiz.nypl.org, links business owners to Small Business Events and Training Calendar NYC and Services Directory —Help for your Business.

If you are interested in starting a small business, SCORE counselors can assist you on a one-on-one basis in preparing a business plan, applying for a business loan and more. SIBL also provides database classes and programs for starting a small business. All these are free to the public on a first come first seated basis.

SIBL also provides Conference Room Rentals and a Small Group Meeting Room.

The Science, Industry and Business Library is located at 188 Madison Avenue and 34th Street.

Free Job Training for Health Information Technology Professionals

Magdalene Chan, Science, Industry and Business Library — Mon, 17 Jun 2013 12:01:20 -0400

CUNY Career PATH is a low-to no cost program funded by the grant program of the US Department of Labor Trade Adjustment Assistance Community College and Career Training, also know as TAACCCT.

In order to ensure career advancement and successful college transition, CUNY Career PATH participants are given career-focused academic and English language skills instruction, job training leading to industry-recognized credentials and college credits, academic advisement, career counseling and employment assistance.

Hostos Community College, City University of New York, provides a free program which will train candidates who meet the eligibility requirements to join the healthcare workforce as “Health Information Technology Professionals.”

The Technical/Software Support Staff program will focus on:

Networking and health information exchange
Vendor-specific systems
Introduction to information and computer science
Working with health IT systems
Installation and maintenance of health IT systems
Configuration of electronic health records

Participants who successfully pass the HIT Pro exam at the end of the training will be in a high-demand position for area hospitals.

Upcoming Info-Session Dates:

Monday, July 15 6-9 p.m.
Monday, July 29 6-9 p.m.

Eligibility Criteria

Adult, 18 years or older
High School Diploma or GED
Demonstrated academic and /or English language instruction needs
Interested in getting a college degree
Legally authorized to work in the United States
Unemployed, a dislocated or TAA-eligible worker, or a worker at risk of losing a job or seeking career advancement

For more information on upcoming info-session dates please call 718-518-6831.

Hostos Community College is at 500 Grand Concourse, Bronx, NY 10451.

The CUNY CareerPATH is an equal opportunity employer/program. Auxiliary aids and services available upon request to individuals with disabilities.

For information on education and employment, please visit Job Search Central at 188 Madison Avenue and 34th Street.

Looking for Employment? FEMA is Hiring

Magdalene Chan, Science, Industry and Business Library — Mon, 17 Jun 2013 08:32:20 -0400

In the aftermath of the devastation of Hurricane Sandy, the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) is hiring local employees to help with the recovery of many communities impacted by the storm.

For more information or to apply for temporary positions, go to:

New York State Job Bank website: newyork.us.jobs
Insert the word FEMA in the keyword search box to access FEMA's job postings.

FEMA provides equal opportunity for all employees and applicants without regard to race, color, national origin, religion, sex, age, disability, sexual orientation and parental status.

The following is a list of current FEMA's jobs in New York, NY (within 25 miles):

For information on education and employment, please visit Job Search Central at 188 Madison Avenue and 34th Street.

Fortifying Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM) Education in New York City

Magdalene Chan, Science, Industry and Business Library — Thu, 13 Jun 2013 13:22:14 -0400

As President Obama is leading our nation in an education reform to Race to the Top and Educate to Innovate, Mayor Bloomberg of the Big Apple is following suit in raising the education standards of K-12 school students by implementing more effective teaching and learning programs. Fortifying STEM education with a focus on the knowledge and skills for the jobs of the future is also an important aspect on the agenda of Bloomberg's education reform.

Mayor Bloomberg recently announced two STEM education programs to be initiated in middle and high schools and higher education:

An initiative to expand computer science software engineering classes in 20 schools in New York City
A program to help prepare students for college and careers in growing technology sector

In September, the Software Engineering Pilot will launch in 20 middle and high schools, bringing computer science and software engineering classes to students in grades 6 through 12. In the first year, the core topics to be taught include computer programming, embedded electronics, web design and programming, e-textiles, robotics and mobile computing. The Pilot will also offer elective classes, including digital fabrication, 3-D printing and animation.

The schools will receive comprehensive computer science and software engineering curriculum for the 1,000 students expected to participate this fall.

The 20 schools were selected through a competitive application process that evaluated the schools' current technology offerings and how the program could help grow and sustain the programming. They include:

High School of Telecommunication Arts and Technology
Brooklyn Technical High school
The Bronx Compass High School
The Renaissance Charter High School of Innovation
Urban Assembly Gateway School of Technology
Queens Vocational & Technical High School
Cambria Heights Academy
Ralph Mckee High School
New Drop High School
Ditmas Intermediate School 62
I.S. 30 Mary White Ovington
Mark Twain I.S. 239 for the Gifted and Talented
Bronx Park Middle School
M.S. 223 The Laboratory School of Finance and Technology
Tompkins Square Middle School
Nathaniel Hawthorne Middle School 74
J.H.S. 185 Edward Bleeker
Pathways College Preparatory School
J.H.S. 157 Stephen A. Halsey
Eagle Academy for Young Men

The other program that prepares students for college and careers in growing technology sector builds on the Applied Science NYC initiative that the Bloomberg Administration launched to capitalize on the considerable growth in the city's science, technology and research fields. In the technology sector, employment in New York grew by nearly 30 percent between 2005 and 2010, with total employment now at nearly 120,000. The City has established three partnerships expected to create more than 48,000 jobs and 1,000 new companies and will be led by Cornell and the Technion, which is developing a campus on Roosevelt Island; the NYU-led consortium, which will build the Center for Urban Science and Progress in Downtown Brooklyn; and Columbia University, which will establish the new institute for Data Sciences and Engineering, to be located at Columbia's Morningside Heights and Washington Heights campuses.

The above information is from Press Release: News from the Blue Room of the Mayor's Office.

For more information on education and employment, please visit Job Search Central at 188 Madison Avenue and 34th Street.

The Family and Medical Leave Act: 20 Years and Counting

Magdalene Chan, Science, Industry and Business Library — Wed, 12 Jun 2013 07:55:52 -0400

The Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA), celebrated its 20th anniversary earlier this year. Since 1993, workers have used FMLA leave to care for children and other family members more than 100 million times, secure in the knowledge that their job would be there upon their return. However, we know women still face many barriers to full participation in the workforce, and there is a continuing need to adopt practices that meet working mothers’ (and fathers’) needs in the 21st century workplace.

The above information is an official blog post presented by Latifa Lyles, Acting Director of the Women’s Bureau of the Department of Labor. Latifa also presented Celebrating Mothers, Supporting Families, which is a FMLA survey with information on working mothers and work-life balance.

Fact Sheet #28: The Family and Medical Leave Act, provides general information about which employers are covered by the FMLA, when employees are eligible and entitled to take FMLA leave, and what rules apply when employees take FMLA leave.

Covered Employers

The FMLA only applies to employers that meet certain criteria. A covered employer is a:

Private-sector employer, with 50 or more employees in 20 or more workweeks in the current or preceding calendar year, including a joint employer or successor in interest to a covered employer;
Public agency, including a local state, or Federal government agency, regardless of the number of employees it employs, or
Public or private elementary or secondary school, regardless of the number of employees it employs.

Eligible Employees:

Only eligible employees are entitled to take FMLA leave. An eligible employee is one who:

Works for a covered employer;
Has worked for the employer for at least 12 months;
Has at least 1,250 hours of service for the employer during the 12 month period immediately preceding the leave*; and
Works at a location where the employer has at least 50 employees within 75 miles.

* Special hours of service eligibility requirements apply to airline flight crew employees. See Fact Sheet 28J: Special Rules for Airline Flight Crew Employees under the Family and Medical Leave Act.

Leave Entitlement

Eligible employees may take up to 12 workweeks of leave in a 12-month period for one or more of the following reasons:

The birth of a son or daughter or placement of a son or daughter with the employee for adoption or foster care;
To care for a spouse, son, daughter, or parent who has a serious health condition;
For a serious health condition that makes the employee unable to perform the essential functions of his or her job; or
For any qualifying exigency arising out of the fact that a spouse, son, daughter, or parent is a military member or covered active duty or call to covered active duty status.

For information on employment, please visit Job Search Central at 188 Madision Avenue and 34th Street.

New York City Employment and Training Coalition

Magdalene Chan, Science, Industry and Business Library — Wed, 05 Jun 2013 09:39:17 -0400

New York City Employment and Training Coalition is an association of 200 community based organizations, educational institutions, and labor unions that annually provide job training and employment services to over 750,000 New Yorkers, including welfare recipients, unemployed workers, low-wage workers, at-risk youth, the formerly incarcerated, immigrants and the mentally and physically disabled. The coalition is the only citywide association exclusively focused on workforce development.

Founded in 1998, the Coalition's mission is to ensure that every New Yorker has access to the skills, training, and education needed to thrive in the local economy and that every business is able to maintain a highly skilled workforce. Toward that mission, the Coalition provides technical assistance services to foster a dynamic and competent community of employment and training providers, and advocate for workforce development policies that expand opportunity for training and education.

In the New York City Employment and Training Coalition (NYCE&TC) website, you can view information that includes:

Members of the Coalition
New York City’s Top 100 Workforce Providers
Young Adult workforce Development Directory
NY Labor Statistics
Government Programs
Recent Workforce Publications
Opportunity Awards/Summit & Expo
Employer sector Roundtables
Workforce Weekly

This site also includes Job Listings from members of the Coalition:

CAMBA, Adult Education Instructor – Workforce Development (posted 6/3/2013)
NMIC, Paralegal, Legal Service Department (posted 5/29/13)
NMIC, Family Child Care Worker – ELNY Department (posted 5/29/13)
NMIC, Construction/Building Maintenance/Weatherization Instructor, Workforce Development Department (posted 5/29/13)
CAMBA Small Business Services (CSBS), Director (posted 5/29/13)
Riverside Language Program, Career Specialist (posted 5/28/13)
Opportunities for a Better Tomorrow, Senior Director, Quality Assurance & Data Management (posted 5/2/13)
Henry Street Settlement, Employment Specialist (posted 5/15/13)
Henry Street Settlement, Assistant Director, Youth/WDC (posted 5/15/13)
NMIC, GED Teacher (posted 5/10/13)
The DOE Fund, Case Manager (posted 5/10/13)
Dress for Success Worldwide, New York Program, Bronx Program Coordinator (posted 5/31/13)
ICD, Employment Specialists (posted 4/29/13)
NMIC, GED Teacher, Youth Build (posted 4/29/13)
NMIC, Recruitment Specialist (posted 4/15/13)

For more information on education and employment, please visit Job Search Central at 188 Madison Avenue and 34th Street.

Chinatown Manpower Project: Nurse Aide Training Program

Magdalene Chan, Science, Industry and Business Library — Mon, 03 Jun 2013 07:46:54 -0400

Chinatown Manpower Project, Inc. (CMP) provides vocational training, employment services, educational programs and economic development opportunities to disadvantaged immigrants and refugees throughout New York City. With assistance from both private and public funding sources, CMP helps individuals take full advantage of all opportunities to succeed in their new environment.

With an increasing demand for nurse aides in hospitals, nursing homes, and the private sector, Chinatown Manpower Project is expanding the Nurse Aide Training Program, which has been approved by the Bureau of Proprietary Supervision, New York State Education Department.

The course lasts 3 months and includes class instruction, lab training, vocational English skill training, clinical internships, and the New York State Certification Exam. Increase employability in the health care sector. CMP also offers job placement assistance.

Learn

Basic nursing and personal care skills
Safety and emergency care procedures
Clinical skills
Interview skills and resume writing
Medical English

Free for refugees and asylees, $2,500 for others. CMP accepts ITG/ITA vouchers and many students qualify for free or discounted courses.

New classes start on June 3 and July 7. For inquiry and registration, please call 212-571-1690.

Chinatown Manpower Project is at 70 Mulberry Street, New York, NY 10013.

For more information on education and employment, please visit Job Search Central at 188 Madison Avenue and 34th Street.

On-Site Recruitment: Bilingual Customer Service Representatives

Magdalene Chan, Science, Industry and Business Library — Wed, 29 May 2013 07:12:14 -0400

The Chinese-American Planning Council and a Cable Company in Queens will present an on-site recruitment for English and Chinese Bilingual Customer Service Representatives.

Full-time position
12 weeks of paid training
Career advancement opportunity
Benefit package includes medical, dental and vision

Qualifications

Must be bilingual in English and Mandarin
Excellent communication, analytical and decision making skills needed
Flexible and able to work different shifts
Computer proficiency required
Call center or other related customer contact experience preferred
Will need to pass the background check

MUST BRING HARD COPY OF RESUME AND PHOTO ID

Please attend the open house recruitment on Sunday, June 9, 2013 at 10 a.m. or 2 p.m. at the Chinese-American Planning Council Workforce Development Division, 165 Eldridge Street, 2nd floor, New York, NY 10002.

Travel directions: Take the B,D trains to Grand Street, or take the F train to Delancy Street.

For more information, please call 212-941-0041.

The Chinese–American Planning Council, which was founded in 1965, is one of the largest non-profit providers of educational, social and community services for Asian-Americans in the U.S. Its programs include Community Services, Day Care Services, Workforce, Senior Citizen Services, Youth Services and Branch Offices. As it enters the 5th decade of community service, it presents a new era of service to the world wide web community with over 70 social services and 29 locations in New York City. You can learn more about the Chinese-American Planning Council on their website.

For more information on job search and recruitment, please visit Job Search Central at 188 Madison Avenue and 34th Street.

Looking for Work? FEMA has Immediate Openings

Magdalene Chan, Science, Industry and Business Library — Tue, 28 May 2013 06:05:26 -0400

The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has immediate openings for Community Relations Specialists (PDF) in all 5 Boroughs of New York City as a result of Hurricane Sandy.

The Position

Candidates will work on foot in affected localities and communicate with people affected by the Hurricane Sandy disaster to identify their disaster related needs and offer information on what assistance is available and how to obtain it. Candidates should possess strong computer, communication, interpersonal, and customer service skills. Candidates who are bi-lingual are strongly preferred. Must be eighteen years of age, and legally able to work in the US. A background check will be performed.

Wage

$13-$15 per hour plus overtime pay.

Hours

7 a.m. to 7 p.m., 7 days per week.

How to Apply

Email your resume and the languages you speak, to FEMA-HR-DR4085-LocalHire@DHS.GOV with ‘Customer Relations Specialist’ in the subject line.

FEMA is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

For more information on employment, please visit Job Search Central at 188 Madison Street and 34th Street.

On-Site Recruitment: Port Authority Police Officers

Magdalene Chan, Science, Industry and Business Library — Thu, 23 May 2013 09:46:39 -0400

The New York State Department of Labor and the Port Authority of New York & New Jersey will present an On-Site Recruitment for Police Officers.

Requirements

EDUCATION: In order to take the Port Authority Police Officer exam, you must have earned at least a high school diploma or a GED. Further, if you pass the written exam, you must have completed either of the following by the date an invitation is made to you to continue the screening process:

A. A minimum of 60 college credits from an accredited college or university; or

B. An honorable discharge from the United States Military after serving a minimum of two full years of continuous active duty.

AGE: You must be at least 19 years of age to take the test. At the time of appointment to the Police Academy Training Program, candidates must be at least 21 years of age and not have reached their 35th birthday. If you are a Military Veteran who might be 35 years of age or older at the time of appointment to the Police Academy, for the next 3 years, the port Authority will allow veterans to deduct up to six years of active military service from their age.

PAY and BENEFITS: The Port Authority of New York & New Jersey offers a competitive starting salary $32,361 with contractual step increases to $90,000 after completing five years of service (based on the current contract), and an outstanding benefits package.

MUST BRING I.D. & AT LEAST TWO COPIES OF YOUR RESUME

On-Site Recruitment is on Friday, June 7, 2013, from 10:00am - 3:00pm at New York State Department of Labor, Bronx Workforce 1 Career Center at 400 E. Fordham Road, 7th Floor (Classroom #2), Bronx, N.Y. 10458.

Public transportation to 400 E. Fordham Road (Entrance at 400 Webster Ave.):
Buses: BX 9, BX 12, BX 15, BX 22, BX 41 or BX 55 (to Fordham Road/Webster Ave. Hub)
Subway: 4, B, D (to Fordham Road station) Train: Metro North (to Fordham Road station)

For more information on on-site recruitment, please visit Job Search Central at 188 Madison Avenue and 34th Street.

On-Site Recruitment: Home Health Aides

Magdalene Chan, Science, Industry and Business Library — Tue, 21 May 2013 13:55:06 -0400

The New York State Department of Labor and New Partners, Inc. will present an on-site recruitment for Home Health Aides.

Job Summary

Trained and certified health care worker who provides assistance to a patient in the home with personal care (hygiene and exercise) and light household duties (meal preparation). Free Home Health Aide training is available!

Job Requirements

Must be able to speak English. Pre-employment exam will be given. Must be caring individuals who are willing to work with a diversity of people. There are no educational requirements.

Wages

$9.50 per hour.

Hours

Full time.

Job Location

Work available in all five boroughs.

Benefits

Life Insurance
Medical, Dental & Vision Insurance
Vacation, Holiday and Sick Pay
Pension Plan
Employee Referral Bonus
Uniform Allowance
1199 Union Position

On-Site Recruitment is on Friday, May 24, 2013, at 10 a.m. at New York State Department of Labor, 400 E. Fordham Road, 8th Floor, Bronx, N.Y. 10458.

Directions

Bus Bx 41, 15, 55, 9,17, 22, 12 to Fordham Road

#4, B or D train to Fordham Road

Metro North to Fordham Road

Entrance on Webster Avenue.

To Apply

Apply in person at 10 a.m. (appointment is not required).

You can learn more about the occupation of Home Health Aides from the Occupational Outlook Handbook 2013.

This occupation is listed as one of the fastest growing occupations and one of the occupations with the largest job growth in the Employment Projects of U.S. Department of Labor 2013.

For more information on On-Site Recruitment, please visit Job Search Central at 188 Madison Avenue and 34th Street.

RecruitMilitary: New York Veteran Job Fair

Magdalene Chan, Science, Industry and Business Library — Tue, 21 May 2013 10:37:49 -0400

RecruitMilitary is a leading full-service military–to-civilian recruiting firm in the United States. They use online and offline products to connect employers, franchisors, and educational institutions with men and women who are transitioning from active duty to civilian life, veterans who already have civilian work experience, members of the National Guard and reserve forces, and military spouses. They serve veterans of all ranks, rates, and branches of the armed forces, and their services are free to all men and women who have a military background.

RecruitMilitary is veteran-owned, veteran-operated, and veteran-advised. They have established working relationships with industry associations, non-profit organizations, and government agencies.

RecruitMilitary provides important resources which include the following to their clients:

Search and Employ Magazine is a bimonthly, "super-sized" magazine designed to help transitioning and veteran military and their spouses find outstanding civilian jobs, business opportunities, and continuing education programs.

A Job Board which is exclusively for those who will be transitioning from or have served at any time on active duty in the U.S. Military, in the National Guard or Reserves, or are a spouse of those who have served.

Veteran Opportunity Expos which is a schedule of hiring events nationwide.

RecruitMilitary has held 11 events in New York, drawing 3,488 attendees and 373 exhibitors. The next Veteran Job fair in New York will be on

Thursday, May 23rd
11:00am-3:00pm
New York Hotel
481 Eighth Avenue
New York, NY 10001

To Register:

Veteran and Spouse Registration

In November 2011, RecruitMilitary was pleased to received the first Annual Lee Anderson Small Business Veteran and Military Spouse Employment Award from the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, The Chamber recognized the company as a business that has "gone above and beyond to honor the sacrifices our military families make in the service to our nation." In February 2012, RecruitMilitary received the first annual One More Way Award from The Sierra Group Foundation, a non-profit organization whose mission is "to drive up employment for people with disabilities, including veterans."

For more information on veteran job fairs, please visit Job Search Central at 188 Madison Avenue and 34th Street.

Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Career Fair 2013

Magdalene Chan, Science, Industry and Business Library — Mon, 20 May 2013 11:36:44 -0400

The New York State Department of Labor will present the Dr. King Career Fair in New York City on June 6 and June 13. Events will run from 11 a.m. – 3 p.m. and will be held at the following locations:

Manhattan

June 6
Harlem Armory
2366 Fifth Ave. (Between 142nd & 143rd)
New York, NY 10037

Staten Island

June 6
Petrides High School
715 Ocean Terrace Building C –Gym
Staten Island, NY 10301

Bronx

June 13
Bronx Community College
2155 University Avenue
Bronx, NY 10461

Brooklyn

June 13
Medgar Evers College
1650 Bedford Avenue
Brooklyn, NY 11225

Queens

June 13
York College
94-20 Guy R. Brewer Blvd.
Jamaica, NY 11451

Meet with area businesses and discuss hundreds of job opportunities
Get resume assistance or attend a workshop
On-site interviews with participating businesses available

To Register:

Dr. King Career Fair-Job Seeker Registration

On June 6th and 13th, remember to bring your resume and dress for success!

Please visit Job Search Central at 188 Madison Avenue and 34th Street for more information on career fairs.

Free Job Training for Community Health Workers

Magdalene Chan, Science, Industry and Business Library — Wed, 08 May 2013 14:20:14 -0400

CUNY Career PATH is a low-to no cost program funded by the grant program of the U.S. Department of Labor Trade Adjustment Assistance Community College and Career Training, also know as TAACCCT.

Hostos Community College, City University of New York, provides a Community Health Worker Program which trains community residents of South Bronx and Northern Manhattan who meet the eligibility requirements to join the healthcare workforce as Community Health Workers.

Community Health Workers are public health professionals who help bridge gaps between different populations and healthcare or social service systems by providing outreach, basic health education, referrals and follow-up service, case management, advocacy and home visiting services.

The training consists of 120 hours centered around community health worker core competencies, and contemporary health issues such as asthma, diabetes, heart disease and chronic disease self-management.

An additional 30 hours are devoted to help participants with their academic skills in reading, writing and math.

Following the classroom training, participants will spend 30 hours shadowing experienced community health workers as part of their practicum.

Participants will earn 9 credits toward a Community Health A.S. (Associate degree in Science).

Eligibility Criteria

Adult, 18 years or older
High School Diploma or GED
Demonstrated academic and/or English language instruction needs
Interested in getting a college degree
Legally authorized to work in the United States
Unemployed, a dislocated or TAA-eligible worker, or a worker at risk of losing a job or seeking career advancement.

Upcoming information session dates.

Tuesday, May 14     10 a.m.-1 p.m.
Tuesday, May 21     10 a.m.-1 p.m.
Tuesday, June 4    10 a.m.-1 p.m.
Tuesday, June 11    10 a.m.-1 p.m.
Tuesday, June 18    10 a.m.-1 p.m.

For more information, please call 718-518-6831
Hostos Community college is at 500 Grand Concourse, Bronx, NY 10451.

If you want to learn more about free job training programs, please visit Job Search Central at 188 Madison Avenue and 34th Street.

Free Job Training in Green Advanced Manufacturing

Magdalene Chan, Science, Industry and Business Library — Mon, 06 May 2013 08:32:04 -0400

Are you 24 or over and are looking for a career in the green advanced manufacturing industry?

Green Advanced Manufacturing Collaborative (GAMC), a partnership between New York City College of Technology's Department of Mechanical Engineering Technology and Industrial Design and the Business and Industry Training Center, is responsive to workforce education needs of NYC's revitalized manufacturing sector. The program rallies resources and stakeholders from the public and private sectors, economic and workforce development agencies, unions and Community Based Organizations (CBOs) to help individuals navigate a career path through cutting edge technology education while contributing to the growth of the nation's competitive edge in manufacturing.

City Tech, CUNY's designated college of technology, offers stackable, credit-bearing industry-recognized credentials in Mechanical Engineering Technology and Industrial Design Technology. Eligible adult learners, committed to the pursuit of collegiate study and promising careers in the manufacturing sector, if accepted, will receive fully paid college education; wrap-around academic, job placement, and other support services.,

Program participants can attend college part-time or full-time and earn industry credentials leading to associate degrees.

Students will receive credit-bearing Industry Recognized Credentials (8-12 month program) and/or Associate Degrees (18-24 month program) in the field of Green Advanced manufacturing.
Fully paid college tuition and textbooks
Industry-based curriculum taught by the college faculty in state-of-the art labs
Support services and skills for success at college
Prep courses in English and math
Advisement, counseling, and tutoring
Job placement assistance or skill upgrading for career advancement

Employment Opportunities:

Industrial Engineering Technician
Computer Numerical Control (CNC) programmer and Operator
Mechanical Engineering Technician
Commercial and Industrial Design Assistant
CAD Designer/Operator
Industrial Product Designer
CAD/CAM Programmer
Mechanical Designer
Senior/Junior Quality Assurance Inspector
Testing Technician
Machinist

Are you Eligible?

18 years old (preferably 24 or older)
High School Diploma/GED or college credits
US citizenship or legally authorized to work in the US
Displaced workers, incumbent workers, veterans, unemployed, underemployed and prospective college students
Take the CUNY Assessment Test (CAT)
Demonstrate strong math skills

The CareerPATH program in Manufacturing continues to accept application for the Summer and Fall Semesters.

All information sessions are held at the City Tech Campus in Downtown Brooklyn at 300 Jay Street, Brooklyn, NY 11201

For information or to reserve a seat at the next information session, please call CareerPATH Program Advisor at 718-552-1150 or email at gamc@citytech.cuny.edu.

If you want to learn more about free job training programs and Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) careers, please visit Job Search Central at 188 Madison Avenue and 34th Street.

Fortifying Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM) Education: A National Policy

Magdalene Chan, Science, Industry and Business Library — Thu, 02 May 2013 07:28:18 -0400

Our nation is going through an education reform with a focus on the knowledge and skills for the jobs of the future. The White House issued this statement, "The strength of the American economy is inextricably linked to the strength of America's education system. Now more than ever, the American economy needs a workforce that is skilled, adaptable, creative, and equipped for success in the global marketplace."

The following information is excerpted from The White House—Reform for the Future.

President Obama has consistently called for improvement in STEM education to move America's students to the top of the pack by enabling all students to learn deeply and think critically in science and math; expanding STEM education opportunities for students from all backgrounds, and building partnerships among educators, businesses and community partners to support advances in STEM education.

Obama's Administration has promoted several successful STEM initiatives, including

Prioritizing STEM education in Race to the Top, which is a K-12 education reform program in raising standards and aligning policies and structures to the goal of college and career readiness.
Investing in Innovation fund
Improving the coordination of STEM education initiatives between the Department of Education and National Science Foundation.
Promoting over 100 industry partners in their efforts to boost STEM learning through Change the Equation, which is a part of the Educate to Innovate education reform program.

Obama's administration has focused the STEM agenda further in 2012 to address the following two goals:

Excellent teachers, with content knowledge, mastery of how to teach the content, and ability to motivate students in STEM subjects and careers
Improving undergraduate STEM teaching, setting a trajectory of producing one million additional STEM degrees over the next decade, as recently recommended by the President's Council of Advisors on Science and Technology.

The President has issued a national challenge to prepare 100,000 effective STEM teachers and has requested $80 million for a competition by the Department of Education to support effective STEM teaching preparation programs.

Change the Equation, a part of Educate to Innovate campaign, is a CEO-led effort as a response by the business community to the President's "call to action" at the National Academy of Sciences in spring 2009 for all Americans to join the cause of elevating STEM education as a national priority essential to meeting the economic challenges of this century. Change the Equation is in a unique position to meet its three goals of:

Great teaching: Improving STEM teaching at all grade levels.
Inspired Learners: Inspiring student appreciation and excitement for STEM, especially among women and under-represented minorities
A Committed Nation: Achieving a sustained commitment to improving STEM education.

Change the Equation: New public private partnerships and commitments:

"Youth Inspired Challenge" by a coalition of science centers and museums
Transforming Libraries and Museums into 21st Century Learning Labs.
National STEM Video Game Challenge
Raytheon's New STEM Tool for State Policymakers
National Math Science Initiative's (NMSI) To Assist Military Families
Nature Publishing's "Bridge to Science" Program for Parents and Scientists
New Efforts to Bring Passions of Scientists and Engineers into Classrooms
Multi-Year Investments in STEM Programs

STEM jobs are good now and for the future. However, STEM careers are not for everyone. If you are not sure what kind of career to pursue, why not try the Job Search Central post, Resources for Choosing a Satisfying Career, and Where the Jobs Are: U.S. Employment Projections, these blog posts may help you make an important decision in your career development.

For more information on STEM education, please visit Job Search Central at 188 Madison Avenue and 34th Street.

An Employer's Guide to Equal Pay

Magdalene Chan, Science, Industry and Business Library — Tue, 23 Apr 2013 07:23:38 -0400

In addressing the Equal Pay Gap, the Women's Bureau of the U.S. Department of Labor recently released two guides on Equal Pay, A guide to Women's Equal Pay Rights and An Employer's Guide to Equal Pay. These guides are also published in four additional languages: Spanish, Chinese, Vietnamese and French, to meet the diverse needs of today's workforce.

The second guide, An Employer's Guide to Equal Pay breaks down the five major federal laws addressing equal pay and compensation. It also highlights tips for employers to review pay practices and where to go for help. The following information is excerpted from this guide.

Major Laws Affecting Equal Pay

There are five major federal laws addressing equal pay and compensation.

Under the Equal Pay Act, all employers must pay equal wages to women and men in the same establishment for performing substantially equal work.
Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 (Title VII) prohibits employers with at least 15 workers from discriminating against their employees on the basis of their race, color, religion, sex or national origin in all terms and conditions of their employment, including pay. Both the Equal Pay Act and Title VII are enforced by the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC).
The Lilly Ledbetter Fair Pay Act of 2009 clarifies that each paycheck containing discriminatory compensation is actionable under Title VII.
Executive Order 11246 prohibits federal contractors, federally-assisted construction contractors and subcontractors from discriminating in employment decisions, including compensation, on the basis of race, color, religion, sex or national origin, when these entities' contracts or subcontracts exceed $10,000.
The National Labor Relations Act (NLRA) protects the rights of most private sector employees to join together, with or without a union, to improve their wages and working conditions.

Reviewing Your Pay Practices

Listen to what your managers and employees are saying.
Look at whether and how you monitor your pay practices.
Increase transparency in compensation:

You may want to consider an open pay policy. An open pay policy allows workers to know how much their colleagues are earning. Such a policy can stop speculation about pay—workers will know they are being paid fairly.
Make it clear that top performers are rewarded, which creates an incentive to work harder.
Stop meritless complaints about unequal pay.
Identify pay disparities so they can be fixed.

There is no one correct way to conduct an appropriate evaluation of compensation practices for potential discrimination. Achieving legal compliance and a truly fair and equitable compensation system cannot be reduced to a checklist. You can obtain further compliance assistance from the resources listed below.

For more information on Equal Pay, please visit Job Search Central at 188 Madison Avenue and 34th Street.

A Guide to Women's Equal Pay Rights

Magdalene Chan, Science, Industry and Business Library — Mon, 22 Apr 2013 06:41:32 -0400

The Women’s Bureau of the U.S. Department of Labor recently released two guides on Equal Pay, A Guide to Women’s Equal Pay Rights and An Employer’s Guide to Equal Pay. These guides are also published in four additional languages: Spanish, Chinese, Vietnamese and French, to meet the diverse needs of today’s workforce.

A Guide to Women's Equal Pay Rights is designed to help working women understand their rights under certain laws that govern equal pay and compenstion. The following information is excerpted from this guide.

Know Your Rights

Women are legally entitled to equal employment opportunities, including the right to earn a paycheck that is free from unlawful bias, and, in many cases, the right to discuss their pay with colleagues.

What are my equal pay and compensation rights under federal law?

Men and women must be paid equal wages if they perform substantially the same work under the Equal Pay Act.
Your employer cannot discriminate against you on the basis of your race, color, religion, sex or national origin in any terms or conditions of your employment, including compensation, hours and benefits.
If you have received an unfair paycheck within the last 180 days, you can file discrimination charge with the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC).
If you work for a federal contractor, Executive Order (EO) 11246 prohibits your employer from discriminating in employment decisions, including compensation, on the basis of race, color, religion, sex or national origin
Most private sector employees have the right to join together, with or without a union, to improve their wages and working conditions under the National Labor Relations Act (NLRA).

What can you do if you think you’re experiencing compensation discrimination?

Try to resolve the situation informally, such as meeting with your supervisor to discuss your concern.
Educate yourself about your rights
Ensure that you keep accurate records.
Check with your state or local agency that administers state or local anti-discrimination laws.
Obtain legal assistance, if necessary.

You can obtain further assistance from the resources below:

For more information on women's equal pay rights, please visit Job Search Central at 188 Madison Avenue and 34th Street.