Kentucky— like other U.S. states—is facing major drawbacks from workforce shortages due to the pandemic. Thankfully, some Kentucky cities such as Owensboro offer a multitude of programs to assist those who are newly entering the workforce or those who are ready to begin working again.
Through various types of training and certificate programs, career seekers in Owensboro have the option to become medical assistants, dental assistants, electricians, truck drivers, pilots, and more. Below are 10 hands-on training courses offered in the Owensboro area. Eight of the following programs are provided by Owensboro Community & Technical College (OCTC).
1. GO FAME
The GO FAME Owensboro Chapter program at OCTC helps students earn a multi-craft technician degree. During the program, students receive firsthand work experience in manufacturing while collecting minimal to no debt.
2. GO Careers
OCTC offers this learn-as-you-work accelerated degree program where students have the opportunity to work three days each week at their sponsoring company while attending college classes two days each week. Career paths include Medical Assisting and Business Administration.
3. IBEW Apprenticeship Training
The IBEW Apprenticeship Training program is available to those looking to receive their Journeyman Electrical state license. The 5-year process consists of technical education and hands-on training.
4. GO Females
OCTC launched GO Females to help female workers learn the necessary skills to advance their manufacturing careers.
5. Tech-X
Tech-X is another multi-craft technologist program offered by OCTC with day or evening classes available. Students will have the opportunity to earn their Forklift Operators Certificate, Gas Welder Certificate, Production Line Welder Certificate, and Arc Cutter Certificate.
6. CDL Academy
OCTC also decided to launch a Commercial Driver’s License Academy to make strides to improve the driver shortage in Owensboro. Participating individuals will receive 160 hours of training during a four-week period to prepare them for an entry-level job in the truck driving industry.
7. OCTC Testing Available testing and assessments at OCTC include the General Education Diploma (GED) Test, College Level Examination Program (CLEP), Test of Essential Academic Skills (TEAS), National Occupational Competency Testing Institute (NOCTI) industrial tests, WorkKeys tests, and more.
8. Nutrition Certification
There are also a handful of certification courses available in Owensboro including the holistic nutrition training program. Interested individuals can choose from an instructor-led 6-week class or a self-paced 3-month class through OCTC.
9. Medical Assistant
Ross Medical Center offers both a Medical Assistant and Dental Assistant training program at their campus in Owensboro. Students who complete the Medical Assistant program now have the skills to work in entry-level positions in a physician’s office or clinic. Students who complete the Dental Assistant program can confidently work in entry-level positions such as dental assistant, dental receptionist, administrative assistant, insurance clerk, or supply salesperson. Each of these programs ranges from 30 to 36 weeks.
10. Eagle Flight Academy
The Owensboro-Daviess County Regional Airport offers Eagle Flight Academy pilot training. Aspiring pilots have the option to train via the use of the Academy’s aircraft, their own aircraft, or the Academy’s FAA-certified flight simulator.
