Meet Karen

Workforce Challenge

In May 2009, Karen had been out of work for over a year after her lay off from a program position in the public sector. Not being able to find work in her field, Karen was in the process of deciding what was next in her career. She knew she wanted to enter the medical field and requested assistance with identifying training and funding options.

Workforce Solution

Karen worked with an employment counselor at Central Oregon Intergovernmental Council (COIC), WorkSource Bend. Together they reviewed Karen’s career assessment results, background, interests and skills. Karen submitted a scholarship application for the Medical Assisting program at the local community college, but found that program was full. Karen’s employment counselor again assisted her in identifying options and re-submitting her scholarship application. Karen was awarded an ARRA scholarship via the WIB (Oregon Workforce Alliance) for an approved Vocational Nursing program in another state. This allowed her to complete her training within one year, graduating at the top of her class in October, 2010.

Outcomes & Benefits

Karen took her licensing exam in January, 2011 and was hired recently at a public health project. She writes, “I'm fascinated by public health. I believe that this is a good fit for me. It is a nice blend of nursing, social work, patient education and community outreach/prevention."

Regarding her experience with COIC, Karen said, “I will always remember your kind gift of support and leadership. Please remember to call on me when the time comes to share success stories and the positive impact of how my grant has changed my life.”

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