Lansing-based Peckham, Inc. has received $1 million from the U. S. Department of Education to train people with disabilities, linking them with private sector call centers focusing on customer service.
State of Michigan labor market analysts anticipate that over the next five years call center occupations will continue to be in demand. Peckham will target these job opportunities toward persons with disabilities, says Ann Gillmore, program development coordinator.
The company that specializes in training is offering up to 50 new jobs at its own call center in Lansing. Employees will answer phone calls from U.S. citizens using a computer-based knowledge system to answer general questions about policies, practices, procedures and other data to assist callers. The positions pay $11.63 per hour, plus benefits.
Another grant, $15,000 from Chase, allows the rehabilitation organization to focus on training people with disabilities with low incomes. “Technological advancements are vital to succeeding in today’s workforce. This grant will continue to allow Peckham the ability to prepare persons with disabilities to successfully obtain competitive employment,” says Gillmore.
“These positions offer a real opportunity for area-residents with disabilities to find long-term employment in a highly professional setting,” said Matt June, business services manager.
The objective is to give persons with disabilities broader career options by making customer service/call center careers more accessible. Peckham’s two-phase training program has allowed participants to become marketable in a growing field, leading many to self-sufficient careers, Gillmore says.
Source: Peckham
Gretchen Cochran, Innovation & Jobs editor, may be reached here.
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