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As the modern workplace is reinvented by technology and becomes increasingly more complicated, employers are asking for more skills and more knowledge from workers at every level.  Folks coming into the workforce today not only need a good work record but also must have...

  • Basic skills in reading, applied mathematics, using information from charts and graphs, and computer operations
  • A good work ethic that includes regular attendance
  • The ability to get along with other employees and customers and
  • Some hard skills that make a person more employable such as the use of certain computer programs, basic welding skills, knowledge of food safety and sanitation, and others.

Ready2Work is a program of the PA CareerLink of Lancaster County which helps you understand the assets you bring to the job market, how those skills can become a stepping stone to a better job, and how to present yourself to employers in a way that makes your job search more effective

Check Your Work Readiness

When you come to the PA CareerLink, you will most likely be involved first in a 60 minute orientation called Career Exploration, that will cover the full array of services available at the facility.  Career Exploration is offered every Tuesday and Thursday at 10 am and Wednesdays at 5 pm. A counselor will encourage you to take an assessment that will examine your math, reading, and observation skills (WorkKeys) as well as a tool to help you decide what jobs most interest you (O*Net).

You can begin the process in the same way at a variety of other sites throughout the community...

  • Spanish-American Civic Association
  • Brightside Baptist Center
  • Urban League
  • Crispus Attucks Center
  • Neighborhood Services

This assessment process will help you evaluate your skills and where they stand in relation to the skills required by employers for particular jobs.  Our listing of hundreds of jobs will help you to see job requirements and decide what further training you may need.

Brush Up Your Skills

Most people need some brushing up on their skills as well as a reminder of the good work habits that make a successful employee.  Our WIN enrichment program and our Alchemy workplace success training allow you to work on those skills while qualifying for a Career Readiness Credential that is endorsed by the PA CareerLink, the Lancaster County Workforce Investment Board, and The Lancaster Chamber of Commerce & Industy.  This document assures employers that you have the skills that they require.

Look for a Job through Ready2Work Employers

Employers who recognize the Career Readiness Credential guarantee to give you an interview if you have a profile that matches the jobs for which they are recruiting.  Dozens of employers are on the list including companies in health care, manufacturing, information technology, automotive services, and agriculture.  Finishing the Career Readiness Credential automatically qualifies you to make the connections.

Many people enroll in the Job Club where your fellow jobseekers and experienced job search coaches will help you to produce a resume, get ready to have good interviews, and show you how to maximize your job search.

Get Some New Skills

You may also choose to add other credentials to your Career Readiness Credential to fill out your skills portfolio.  The PA CareerLink offers a number of short courses that range from 1-6 weeks in length, that may be offered on a full or part-time schedule, day or evening, and that are currently free of charge.  Present topics include...

  • Construction 101 (pre-apprenticeship training for the construction industry)
  • Welding (short skills-oriented course in the three kinds of welding)
  • HOT Lab (basic introduction to machine maintenance for manufacturing)
  • Printing 101 (basic introduction to the printing industry)
  • Pre-Allied Health (opportunity to work on language skills and basic health care skills)

More extensive skills training may be available through an Individual Training Account (ITA) for which you will need to provide some proof of eligibility.  The Lancaster Employment and Training Agency will work with you on completing the paperwork and determining whether you qualify.  ITAs fund occupations such as certified nursing assistant, licensed practical nurses, truck drivers, information technology workers, and others at area educational institutions.