A groundbreaking new initiative in Oswego County has the potential to mark the community as the first in the Northeast to earn a skilled-workforce designation that could lure new businesses and jobs to the area. Led by Cayuga Community College’s Executive Dean of Community Education and Workforce Development Carla DeShaw, the ACT Work
The Center for Career and Community Education presented seven new Medical Assisting graduates at their completion ceremony March 5.
From left, CCCE Health Occupations Coordinator Elizabeth Rice, CiTi Board of Education Presdient John Shelmidine, Medical Assisting graduates Lori Coldiron, Tammy Henderson, Mackenzie Casler, Amy Arden, Kari Firenze, Majesta Hallock, CCCE Medical Assisting Instructor Shelly Spencer, CCCE Liaison for Workforce Initiatives and Corporate Programs Paula S. Hayes and CiTi Assistant Superintendent for Personnel Mark LaFountain. Not pictured, Medical Assisting graduate Megan Meddaugh.
“I feel the best part of the class was the hands-on experience,” said salutatorian Amy Arden.
The class received a 100% pass rate on their certification exam. Every graduate also received a National Career Readiness Certificate through WorkKeys, validating their skill set for the work they will be doing.
Cayuga Community College received $92,084 from the Richard S. Shineman Foundation last week to pilot a countywide workforce development initiative that would make Oswego County the first in the state — and the Northeast — to receive “Work Ready Community” designation by education and professional development nonprofit ACT.