Employers tell us they need employees who are skilled, can read well and express themselves, use computers and solve problems. They also tell us they need employees who can come to work regularly and be on time, work as part of a team, and manage conflict.

The WorkReady credential addresses the soft skills need to be successful in the workplace and is designed for people who have difficulty getting or keeping a job. Those eligible and successfully completng the course will earn a recognized credential.  This is a hybrid course with some in-person and some online assignments.    

We are working on the schedule for in-person component of this course, but please reach out to learn more and get started with some of the activities. The first step is to meet with one of our career advisors to make a plan that meets your needs and goals. Call us at 664.7110 to schedule an initial appointment.

No class 02/19/25 or 04/23/25.

Employers tell us they need employees who are skilled, can read well and express themselves, use computers and solve problems. They also tell us they need employees who can come to work regularly and be on time, work as part of a team, and manage conflict.

The WorkReady credential addresses the soft skills need to be successful in the workplace and is designed for people who have difficulty getting or keeping a job. Those eligible and successfully completng the course will earn a recognized credential.  This is a hybrid course with some in-person and some online assignments.

No class 02/20/25 or 04/24/25.    

We are working on the schedule for in-person component of this course, but please reach out to learn more and get started with some of the activities. The first step is to meet with one of our career advisors to make a plan that meets your needs and goals. Call us at 664.7110 to schedule an initial appointment.

The Ellsworth School Department is looking for substitutes in all departments - teachers, ed techs, secretaries, bus drivers, and custodians.  Effective substitutes need to know how to access policies and procedures, as well as the facilities.  This workshop addresses these topics, as well as the application process, tools and tips for classroom management and instructional practices for substitute teachers.  It will be followed up by a meeting with school administrators at relevant schools. This is an in-person workshop.

Forms is the Google Suite App that allows you to create surveys, proposals and so much more. The surveys are easy to create and can automatically be formatted to download to a google sheet which makes reviewing the results quick and easy.  This is an in-person class; 

You’ll need a Gmail account for this workshop, and will need to know your account username and password.  It’s ideal if you access your Gmail on the web vs. a computer-based program.  If you’re not sure what this means, please contact us and we’ll be glad to assist you!  Google applications are free and are a practical way to learn programs without investing in software.

In today’s competitive market, can you afford to not offer the very best customer service? 

When customers are pleased with a product or service they may tell one or two others, but when they are dissatisfied you better watch out!  One of the main reasons that customers stop doing business is because someone at that business treated them poorly. Offering consistent, friendly customer service is a key to repeat business and customer loyalty.  A big step to improving customer service is getting your employees to look at their jobs through the eyes of their customer.  

The Ellsworth Adult & Community Education is partnering with the Ellsworth Area Chamber of Commerce and local businesses to offer businesses and individuals an opportunity to enhance their customer service. Trainers will be area employers who focus on quality customer service. Each session will have handouts that can be added to the student’s personal growth file or shared with others in their workplace.  A certificate of completion will be awarded to those who successfully complete all four sessions.

Makeup class, if needed, 04/04/25.

Session I - Friday, March 7, 2025 – First Impressions – The Impact of Attitude and Appearance on Sales and Repeat Business. Participants will discuss positive and negative example of good customer service, 

• The importance of attitude – good or bad, both make a lasting impression
• The importance of dress – What is business casual?

Session II - Friday, March 14, 2025 – Effective Problem-Solving and Strategies for Dealing with Difficult Customers, 

• How to tell people what they don’t want to hear
• Simple ways to help diffuse anger
• In person and on the telephone – smiles work

Session III  - Friday, March 21, 2025– Communication – It’s What You Say AND How You Say It

• Verbal and Non-Verbal Communication – body language can speak louder than words
• Active Listening – taking in what is said and what is not said
• Using the right words – grammar is a reflection on you and your company
• Asking open-ended questions – seeking to fully understand situations
• Know your audience – diverse customers = diverse expectations

Session IV - Friday, March 28 , 2025- The Total Package – Going Above and Beyond 

• Taking the extra steps helps ensure customer satisfaction
• Effective problem solving

Finding work in the 21st century involves navigating an ever-changing landscape shaped by technology, networking, and evolving job market demands.  This workshop will cover tailored resumes and cover letters, online application portals, establishing a professional presence online, developing a portfolio, interviewing online and in person, and networking.  This is an in-person class.

Google Sheets are spreadsheet files.  Spreadsheets were traditionally ledgers for financial recordkeeping, but now are used for organizing, tracking and retrieving all kinds of information. Google Sheets is a user friendly, online tool similar to Microsoft Excel.  It’s free, accessible from all devices and is easy to share.  Learn how to create a basic spreadsheet, format and reorganize information, and use simple formulas and filters.  This is an in-person class.

You’ll need a Gmail account for this workshop, and will need to know your account username and password.  It’s ideal if you access your Gmail on the web vs. a computer-based program.  If you’re not sure what this means, please contact us and we’ll be glad to assist you!  Google applications are free and are a practical way to learn programs without investing in software.

Vanessa loves working with adult learners. She is really easy to be around and makes people extremely comfortable; she even makes learning math and computers fun! She is committed to helping adults discover their strengths, build their confidence, and realize they can accomplish their goals. In her free time, she loves to travel and explore the outdoors. Vanessa teaches math, science, technology, and provides college and career advising.

The Ellsworth School Department is looking for substitutes in all departments - teachers, ed techs, secretaries, bus drivers, and custodians.  Effective substitutes need to know how to access policies and procedures, as well as the facilities.  This workshop addresses these topics, as well as the application process, tools and tips for classroom management and instructional practices for substitute teachers.  It will be followed up by a meeting with school administrators at relevant schools. This is an in-person workshop.