Purdue launces “12 in 6” training initiative


Gov. Bev Perdue launched last week “12 in 6,” a workforce development initiative designed to benefit North Carolinians who have lost their jobs due to recent layoffs and plant closures.

The initiative will create community college programs in 12 careers, each requiring less than six months to complete. The N.C. Community College System and the N.C. Department of Commerce are collaborating on the program as part of Gov. Perdue’s larger JobsNOW initiative, which focuses on job creation and economic development.

The new training programs will be available at all 58 community colleges by the end of September. The state’s 24 workforce boards, JobLink Career Centers and Employment Security Commission offices will connect job seekers with the training programs and employment opportunities.

“Jobs now in North Carolina — that’s the goal. We know that people who have lost their jobs need to get back in the workforce as quickly as possible,” said Gov. Perdue. “This rapid training initiative provides them with a clear path to success in new, sustainable careers.”

The 12 career areas were selected based on current and/or anticipated market demand: nursing assistant, phlebotomy, medical coding, office/clerical support, masonry/tile cutting, plumbing, carpentry, welding, food service, autobody repair, manufacturing/materials, and HVAC/industrial maintenance.