Simultaneously, OJT provides job opportunities and practical on-job training for eligible Dutchess and Putnam County residents. OJT candidates are over age 22, entry-level to skilled, no high school diploma to college graduates and have 0 to 25 years of experience. The Chamber's Mentoring Program helps eligible individuals transition from welfare to work. The program is a collaborative initiative with the Poughkeepsie Area Chamber of Commerce Workforce Development Center, the Dutchess County Department of Social Services, the NYS Department of Labor, and the Dutchess County Economic Development Corporation. Individuals get soft skills training and mentoring support for one year.
Mentors work with both employers and employees on an individual basis.