Langevin to Hold Job Training Forum in Kingston

Throughout the month of August, Congressman Jim Langevin (D-RI) has visited skills and job training programs across the Second District as part of his Classroom to Career tour. Building upon the Rhode Island Skilled Economy (RISE) Tour that began in 2010, this series of visits is designed to explore the demands of the current job market and how to train the workforce accordingly.

At 6 p.m. on Thursday, Aug. 29, he will hold a forum at Kingston Free Library to discuss career training and placement with local students and adults looking to move ahead in the workforce.

“I have visited a variety of programs, focused on everything from arts education to IT training, but the universal theme driving this tour is the demand for skilled workers,” Langevin said. “What these programs have in common is that they provide soft skills training and support for Rhode Islanders looking for work. They have the resources our job seekers need, but we must do a better job connecting potential employees with available programs."

Langevin is co-chair of the Congressional Career and Technical Education Caucus and recently introduced the Counseling for Career Choice Act to ensure that high school students are made fully aware of their career and education options prior to graduation. The Classroom to Career tour puts that concept into practice, both for students still unsure of their futures and for adults looking for stable employment.

"Sometimes all a job applicant needs is help with his or her resume or a refresher course in technology in order to be a more qualified candidate," Langevin continued.

Classroom to Career stops continue this week, first at the Rhode Island Community Food Bank on Wednesday afternoon to speak with Community Kitchen instructors and students, later followed by the New England Institute of Technology where Langevin will hold a roundtable discussion with Venture for America partners. South County will then play host to Langevin on Thursday for his Town Hall-style meeting, at the Kingston Free Library, located at 2605 Kingstown Road in Kingston.