Students and staff of Oshkiimaajitahdah in Redby take the National Career Readiness Certificate (NCRC) exam

Students and staff of Oshkiimaajitahdah in Redby take the National Career Readiness Certificate (NCRC) exam on April 16th, while Angele Hartell from the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED) looks on.

Individuals can earn the NCRC by taking three WorkKeys assessments: Applied Mathematics, Locating Information and Reading for Information. Based on test performance, an individual may attain a rating of Bronze, Silver, Gold or Platinum. These ratings are then used by potential employers to gauge a job seeker's suitability for the requirements of an open position.

NCRC offers the efficient matching of talent with work—which helps people find jobs and companies find skilled workers. Launched in 2006, today more than 1 million certificates have been issued and more than 40 states have statewide or regional certificate programs.

In the Northwest Minnesota region, there are over 150 employers who are currently involved with the program. These include LaValley Industries, 1st National Bank, North Central Door, Team Industries and Seven Clans Casino as well as MnDOT statewide.

Funding is currently available to cover the cost of the initial set of exams plus one retake if desired. Testing sessions are currently being held once per month at Oshkiimaajitahdah in Redby and also at the Bemidji Workforce Center. If you would like to participate, please contact Angele Hartell at 218-333-8231 or Dave Close at 218-679-3350 ext 147.