The MaineLinks Newsletter

Weeks of June 3rd and 10th, 2024

What to Know 

American Red Cross babysitting and childcare courses can help you provide quality care to children of all ages. Developed by experts in the industry, the online and in-person courses are available to those ages 11 and older and include topics such as choosing age-appropriate activities, basic childcare, like bottle feeding, child behavior, leadership, professionalism, safety, starting a babysitting business, and more.

Veterans Corner

The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) recognizes the strength and contributions of the Nation's nearly 1 million military spouses on Military Spouse Appreciation Day.  The Department’s Veteran and Military Spouse Talent Engagement Program (VMSTEP) helps Veterans, transitioning Service members, and military spouses develop competitive applications to secure employment with VA. These services include:

• Federal resume support and revisions.
• Interview preparation and advice.
• Guidance on dressing for success.
• Assistance navigating the Federal Government’s official employment website USAJobs.

Training TalkThe Office of Aging and Disability Services is opening applications for grants to assist persons to complete Assistive Technology Professional certification. Certification is through the Rehabilitation Engineering and Assistive Technology Society of North America (RESNA) and the grants are funded by the American Rescue Plan. The applications are available 06/01/2024 until 06/30/2024. Grants of up to $2,000 will be awarded to support completion of the ATP certification requirements. Applicants should be within 6 months’ time of completing all qualifying criteria for the certification. Expenses must be directly related to the completion of certification criteria. Examples include:

• RESNA Membership
• ATP Exam Fees
• ATP Exam Prep Fees
• Childcare while applicant is engaged in the training
• Mileage reimbursement for contact hours when travel exceeds 30 miles one way
• Other expenses directly related to obtaining certification; Review Committee will determine whether expenses meet the criteria

Notable Quote:

"That person who helps others simply because it should be or must be done, and because it is the right thing to do, is indeed without a doubt, a real superhero.” – Stan Lee

Hiring Events: (Click on the “Hiring Events” link for full list)

• 6/3—L.L. Bean Hiring Event at the Lewiston CareerCenter
• 6/5—Portland CareerCenter 1^st Wednesday Hiring Event
• 6/6—Downtown Brunswick Hiring Event Sponsored by the Southern Midcoast CareerCenter and the Town of Brunswick

Workshops: (click on the “Workshops“ link for more)

Pre-register online for these virtual opportunities:

• 6/20—Searching for Work: 55+ With or Without Health & Physical Restriction by Maine’s Workforce Collaborative
• 6/25—How to Effectively Apply/Compete for Federal Jobs Courtesy of the US Department of Labor
• 7/5—Navigating Hiring Process for Individuals with a Criminal History by Maine’s Workforce Collaborative

CareerCorner –June: Solar Photovoltaic Installer

A solar photovoltaic (PV) installer works in the clean energy sector to install and maintain solar energy systems. PV installers are responsible for determining solar energy needs, designing appropriate systems for each client, assembling and installing modules, and applying weather-proof sealants. Most PV installers require a high school diploma or equivalent, and some may require an associate degree or short-term training. Many PV installers receive on-the-job training through apprenticeships. Clean energy is a rapidly growing sector with a bright outlook in Maine and beyond. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual salary for solar photovoltaic installers in 2023 was $48,800.

And MORE!

The Maine Women's Network is a statewide nonprofit organization with multiple chapters, including Androscoggin, Midcoast, and Portland. When you become a member, your membership is statewide. Through monthly chapter meetings, statewide events and other programming, Maine Women's Network represents and supports hundreds of women in business across the state.

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Maine Department of Labor and Maine CareerCenters provide equal opportunity in employment and programs. Auxiliary aids and services are available upon request.