Many young people begin to think about obtaining a job during the summer but don't know where to look.

The Central Ozarks Private Industry Council (COPIC) has developed a partnership with Tacony Manufacturing, St. James in an effort to bring new job opportunities to area youth. The Work Experience program, funded by the Workforce Investment Act (WIA) is a program designed to give youth with little or no experience the opportunity to work in a supportive environment. Youth have the opportunity to gain valuable work skills through hands-on experience, possible permanent job placement, positive references, and confidence to obtain future employment.   Those not hired by Tacony will be assisted with additional job placement efforts or enrollment in additional training.

Tacony Manufacturing, with its community-minded base, requested that COPIC's Youth Department Career Consultants assist them with developing a plan for youth to work in a special project running through the summer months.  COPIC Career Consultants recruited youth in need of employment and provided assessment and work readiness preparation. Tacony then reviewed this pool of prospective workers for interviewing and selection.  All of the Youths' Work Experience wages are funded by the WIA which makes this an excellent opportunity for both Tacony and the Youth.  Tacony obtained laborers for a short-term project while also observing the workers for possible full-time positions.  The Youth are gaining transferable work skills such as dependability, teamwork, and communication skills, all in a hands-on environment.  

Tacony and COPIC each anticipate that this opportunity will aid in developing the local workforce as the Youth, through the process of applying, interviewing, and working, will gain the skills necessary for future employment.

Human Resource Director Nancy Montgomery is pleased with the youth participants and how well coordinated the efforts were by Adrienne Orf and Scott Harris WIA Youth Career Consultants.

COPIC assists approximately 100-150 eligible youth annually.  Services include placement in Work Experience; direct job referral and job placement or Classroom Occupational Training for attainment of Trade Certification or License or two-year degree.  COPIC can be contacted by calling 800-638-1401 or 573-364-7030.