Coffee with PTW: Empowering Job Seekers with Workforce Insights and Opportunities
On Wednesday, February 12, in Aurora, CO, the Parents to Work (PTW) team hosted its Coffee with PTW event, designed to equip unemployed participants with essential workforce insights, direct employer connections, and strategies to overcome barriers. This event provided participants with key job search tools to enhance their career prospects.
Key Presentations & Workforce Insights
Labor Market Trends & Strategic Job Search
Chalesah Gonzales, an Arapahoe/Douglas Works! Workforce Specialist, provided an overview of labor market trends, highlighting in-demand occupations and industry shifts. She also presented the Weekly Occupations Report, demonstrating how participants can leverage this data to refine their job search and increase employment opportunities.
Work-Based Learning Opportunities
Dee Wittmer, a Business Services Representative from Arapahoe/Douglas Works! introduced participants to work-based learning, emphasizing its hands-on experience benefits and the current opportunities available through the PTW program and employer partners.
Engagement & Impact
Despite freezing temperatures and snow, the event saw an impressive turnout of 27 participants. This interactive environment fostered engagement with PTW staff, industry professionals, and fellow participants, allowing attendees to ask questions, network, and gain clarity on their next steps in securing employment.
Participants were encouraged to apply labor market insights to their job search strategies. Those interested in work-based learning opportunities were connected with PTW staff for further guidance. Workforce Specialists also followed up with individuals to discuss job readiness, referrals, and compliance expectations.
Overall, Coffee with PTW was well received, providing valuable resources and connections to help participants move toward sustainable employment.
Learn more about the Parents to Work program at https://www.adworks.org/job-seekers/programs/parents-to-work/.
