Enrollment and completion of a job training programs for felons can change your work life. Appropriate education helps land better jobs. Moreover, it is the ultimate choice to open up more avenues and job profiles.
Work towards Your Dream Job
While all jobs can and will drain you, some are better than others. It will depend on your preferences and choices in life. A carpenter who enjoys carving works has better job fulfillment.
With relevant training or education, anyone can start their journey to a dream job.
How to Determine the Right Training for You?
It is not all about passion when someone looks for a job. Instead, it has a lot to do with the financial viability of the profession.
To find out what training will best suit you, consider the following aspects:
What you want to do?
For ex-felons, there are some restrictions in the matter. Depending on the felony, there are some jobs that are off-limit.
So, barring those, you need to find something you are passionate about or at least can tolerate.
Check for Job Progression
Choosing a profession includes long term commitment. So, take the time to find the job progression. Researching will include complete knowledge about the job. The promotions you can get, and the final position in the profile.
Look for Course Relevant to Your Education
Once, course is finalized, start looking for education in the field. Your current qualifications will decide the options.
Someone without high school education cannot get a college degree.
Training Options Available
Your education will affect the training options.
Here are the various courses to take
Passing High School Equivalency
Ex-felons who did not complete the high school diploma should first earn an equivalent educational degree.
People with High School Equivalency (HSE) earn higher than people who do not have the degree. Also, if you want training in specific field, you might need the qualification.
Three common exams that ex-felons can take to earn their HSE are
- The High School Equivalency Test (HiSET)
- The Test Assessing Secondary Completion (TASC)
- The General Education Development (GED) Test
Sign up for preparation classes and read some study guides to prepare for the exam.
Cost of exam will vary as per the location. Some states offer the exam for free, others might have a cost.
Basic Skills Training
Training programs for ex offenders who want to learn the basic skills that employers look for while hiring, taking training in the following classes can help.
- English
- Reading & Writing
- Speaking & Verbal Communication
- Math
- Work Readiness
- Using Computer & Internet
- Workplace Safety
These skills are necessary to get a job. Get training to brush up your skills.
Short-term Training Program
A program less than 2 years comes under short-term program. Certification helps find a job, get promotions, and earn more money.
Base your training program on
- Interest
- Career Options
- Common first jobs
Training programs are short and directly result in job opportunities.
Apprenticeships
Apprenticeships offer a paycheck while getting training. The training can last anywhere between six months and six years.
Also, more often than not, it includes a lot of hard work. You probably won’t be sitting for the job.
Some apprenticeships options includes
- Chef
- Electrician
- Painter
- Sheet Metal Worker
- Horticulturist
- Dental Assistant
- Lab Technician
These are only some of the options available. So, look for training in your field.
College Degree
If money isn’t an issue, get a college degree. It will open several high-level job opportunities with better pay.
Select college options as per budget and previous education. Get the degree and advance your career.
Occupational License
Certain occupations require a license to work. Ex-felons can apply for the license after some work experience and studying to be eligible for specific positions.
Conclusion
Education isn’t the end goal it is part of the process. It opens doors that are otherwise closed. For ex-felons, grabbing education can work well because getting a job right after a felony becomes challenging.
Studying will help improve skills. Also, when applying for a job, time period between job application and felony can help improve chances.
