Worker Trends Side Bar

"The goal of the program is to train workers who are currently employed but may not be working to their potential, and help them to improve their skills. These workers may even be in jeopardy of losing their jobs," says Joe Paterno, executive director of the board.

The program aims to help businesses retain employees and increase productivity. "It is much easier to train an employee who is already actively working and familiar with the organization than to start the recruitment and training process all over with a new employee," Paterno says.

The board, whose mission is to collaborate with business, education and social services to develop programs and activities that reduce dependency, encourage personal growth and provide economic benefits to individuals, businesses and communities, used its survey of businesses earlier this year to ask companies their needs. An overwhelming answer: training.

For more about the initiative or to find locations of the board's Career and Service Centers, which provide aid and information for employers and job seekers, check out www.careerandservicecenter.org or call the board's main office in Bonita Springs at (239) 992-8000.