This year, the St. Charles County Workforce Development Center (WDC) has seen twice as many unemployed as they did last year. In order to adequately service the jobless, a second center opened at 400 N. Second Street in St. Charles. The newly opened facility is located behind the courthouse; although, the main office is in St. Peters.

But, wait, there’s good news. According to the WDC the number of newly unemployed individuals is not increasing in St. Charles County. Don Holt, WDC director, stated that the figures have “flattened out.”

April showed less than those in March, and the numbers were holding steady in May. Still, the numbers are high and the state legislature has responded with assistance.

Governor Jay Nixon signed a new House-sponsored bill into effect on May 14 of this year. Supplemental appropriation will be provided via the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act to fund employment and training programs ear-marked for displaced workers and low-income youth.

The $30.9 million will fund a summer employment program, which will match Missouri youth with internships and jobs at high-tech, front line businesses. The Next Generation Jobs Team is intended to prepare eligible young people for tomorrow’s jobs.

In regards to those who remain unemployed, more are taking advantage of the WDC’s training programs to prepare for interviews and write effective resumes. Some have discovered that their job skills are outdated, and are seeking further training.

Tuition assistance is available for those going into nursing or IT; although, there are strict program requirements. WDC makes direct tuition payments to certified training providers for individuals seeking an eligible career.

One of the many challenges the Economic Development Center is experiencing is transitioning the skills of displaced auto workers into new careers. Director Holt stated that green jobs may be a good fit. One example he gave was wind turbine factories, which would need skilled workers. He did not think it would be that much of a stretch to use laid off auto workers if they were provided updated training.

For more information about eligible programs through the WDC, call (636) 278-1360 or check out their website at stcharlesworks.com. To get information regarding Nixon’s Next Generation Jobs Team, visit the state’s website at mo.gov.

With young people getting state-of-the-art training and stepping into cutting edge jobs, you’d think real estate would be an investment in their somewhat near future. Once they are positioned for success in a job, most people look to complete the American dream and buy a home.

Many displaced workers already own real estate and are looking to keep their homes out of foreclosure. If they are offered retraining for jobs they can fill, it will enable them to hold on to their American dream.