CentreREADY™ is a voluntary collaborative worker certification initiative of the Chamber of Business & Industry of Centre County and all five of the county's school districts and its two career/ technical training institutions. This worker certification program is designed to build a better local workforce; one that best matches Centre County employers with employees who possess the desired core skills and competencies that employers are looking for. CentreREADY™ represents a true community response to local workforce needs.
A signed CentreREADY™ Memorandum of Agreement between the CBICC and its educational partners formalized the initiative. The MOA outlines implementation procedures and expectations for this durable workforce preparedness initiative.
Staff members of participating school districts and technical training institutions work with students to become CentreREADY™. Each school has their own intake process unique to their school; all schools are searching for those students who have achieved an understanding and desired level of proficiency in the six CentreREADY™core attributes.
Once students receive the CentreREADY™ seal of approval (graduate with the designation), they can display this on their resume when applying for jobs. When employers come across the CentreREADY™ seal of approval and/or logo on applications, they will know right away that those applicants possess the six attributes that are necessary for all employees to work effectively.
Designed to meet the long-term hiring needs of local and surrounding employers, in turn, creating a stronger community.
Business & Community Support
The CBICC and its education and community partners are committed to the long-term success of CentreREADY™. Business supporters pledge to recognize individuals' efforts to gain proficiency in the core attributes, and value the CentreREADY™ designation. Business supporters are also encouraged to display the 'We Support CentreREADY™' logo on their website and in their employment advertising.
Six Attributes of a CentreREADY™ Worker
Work Ethic
Ability to be punctual and productive, and to effectively manage time; taking pride in work product and a job well done.
Tactfulness/ Manners
Ability to treat people with respect, courtesy, and consideration, especially in difficult situations; exhibiting emotional maturity.
Team Work
Ability to build relationships with colleagues and customers with diverse viewpoints, apply individual skills toward a common goal, and balance individual needs with the organizational need to perform as a unit.
Understanding Supervision/
World of Work
Ability to respect and understand the organizational mission, ‘chain of command’ within the workplace, and accept final decisions made by supervisors.
Critical Thinking/
Problem Solving
Ability to exercise sounds reasoning when analyzing issues, making decisions and overcoming problems as they arise.
Communication
Ability to articulate thoughts or ideas clearly, succinctly, effectively, and appropriately.