CLM Workforce Connection brings together citizens, employers and educational providers to develop programs to support high-quality education/training and employment services to meet regional workforce needs.

CLM Workforce Connection carries out its mission through contracts with agencies that provide services to residents and employers in pur area. One example is a new contract with Henkels & McCoy to provide academic and occupational skills to youths in Citrus County.

In particular, Henkels & McCoy will provide eligible youths effective and comprehensive activities resulting in improved educational and skill competencies in order to provide effective connections to the workforce. H&M does through a simulated work environment combined with classroom activities — a program called TechBridge.

A key component of the program is that each youth participant assembles a computer from its component parts. Upon meeting certain goals as part of their career plan, the youths will be allowed to keep the computers they built.

Beyond the benefit of possibly receiving a computer by participating in TechBridge, youth receive assistance getting their high school diploma or general education diploma (GED). Youths also receive job placement services and special awards or recognition.

TechBridge is an open enrollment program, so youths can begin at any time. And the hours of the program are very flexible because the work is self-paced.

"In today’s workforce, computer skills are critical," said Paul Mitchell, program manager with Henkels & McCoy.

"We are providing an opportunity for students to become comfortable with computers so they can be successful in future employment."

TechBridge training takes place at the One Stop Workforce Connection at 16 N.E. Fifth St. in Crystal River.

To enroll in TechBridge, youths must meet certain eligibility criteria. Some key requirements are the youth must be 14 to 21 years old and enrolled in school.

To see if you qualify to enroll in TechBridge, call (352) 794-0086, Ext. 212.

To learn more about CLM Workforce Connection or the One Stop Workforce Connection, call (352) 732-1355, Ext. 212.