Work Ready assessments set for Saturday morning at W-W Middle School

Wilkes County residents will have another chance to take the Work Ready assessment test next Saturday, August 23, at Washington- Wilkes Middle School. Sponsored by a statewide initiative, the test evaluates and recognizes members of the workforce based on their qualifications in several areas of work readiness.

So far, Wilkes County has certified over 170 residents at various levels. Earlier this week, it was announced that the first Platinum certification had been earned by Amy Wheatley and that Daniel Newsome had also achieved the highest level.

The test is free of charge and lasts up to four hours. It will begin at 8:30 a.m. this Saturday and test takers will have a choice of whether to take the test on paper or on a computer. Computer space is available on a first come-first served basis. Once the computers are filled, all others will take the test on paper.

There are three sections to the assessment - Reading for Information, Applied Mathematics, and Locating Information - each of which lasts about 55 minutes. There is a break between sections and there is a demographics section to fill out which takes about 20 minutes.

Wilkes County is one of the first counties in the state to be awarded funding for the Work Ready project and is already on its way toward meeting its goal. "We have a goal of 214 to be certified," said Donna Hardy, Wilkes County director. "More than that have already taken the test and we have over 170 with certificates of various levels."

Hardy pointed out that there is no "pass" or "fail" to the assessment - it is designed to certify each person's level of work readiness thereby simplifying job hunting and interviews. Companies across the state, including Pliant Corporation in Washington, are adopting and recognizing the program in their human resources departments. "For example, if you go in with a Work Ready certificate to apply for a particular job," Hardy said, "they're going to know immediately how qualified you are for that job. It makes it easier on everybody."

The testing will be held at the Washington-Wilkes Middle School at 304A Gordon Street. When you arrive at the school, go to the school office and you will be guided to the computer lab.

"We would like for folks to call to reserve a place, but it is not absolutely necessary," Hardy said. To reserve a place, call Hardy at 706-678-1362 or you may call and leave your information at the Chamber of Commerce at 706-678-2013. Information needed to reserve a place includes name, date of birth, and the last four digits of your Social Security number.

For more information, contact Hardy at the number above.

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