Investing in Women, An Investment in the Economy

It was a big night for the seven women celebrating their graduation from the Invest In You Too training program. Their families, friends and children gathered to applaud them as they walked across the stage and received certificates of completion in Medical Device Manufacturing.

The graduates of the 8th cohort of Invest In You Too.

The Department of Workforce Services (DWS) created the Invest in You Too program to fill a need for professional training specific to the women of Salt Lake County. In partnership with us at Salt Lake Community College (SLCC) to provide short-term training in the medical device manufacturing field, which has a large need for employees.

These seven graduates, mostly single moms, dedicated themselves to attending three days of classroom instruction on an SLCC campus and two “empowerment days” at DWS each week for 11 weeks. In addition to manufacturing skills, their workshops provided training on interview skills, resume writing and more.

Yvette Woodland (left) and Kay Carter (right) present graduate Jennifer with her certificate.

Yvette Woodland (left) along with Kay Cater (right) hands out certificates.

Yvette Woodland of DWS described the program as the first step on the pathway to a new life. She believes the graduates’ growth and confidence will bring them success, and she is excited to see “the places [they] will go.”

To the graduates, Kay Carter of SLCC said, “Thank you for making my job fun. I am so proud of you ladies and everything you have accomplished.”

The most inspiring thing about Invest in You Too is its ability to instill confidence and empower its program participants. For many women, this program was their first experience on a college campus, which can be intimidating. Over time, they gained the confidence to accomplish things they never thought possible. One went back and was awarded her GED, another enrolled in SLCC for the summer semester to pursue her associate’s degree, and three women had found new, full-time employment before graduation.

I was nervous (at the beginning of the program) but at the end it was so much fun. I would tell anyone to stick it out to the end, it will be worth it.

- Corrina (cohort 8 gradutate)

Remember, “Dreams don’t work unless you do.” We are so proud of these women and are excited to watch them grow and thrive. Congratulations, and cheers to your bright future!

If you are interested in learning more about the Invest In You Too Program and how to qualify, please contact your local DWS office.

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