(March 5, 2008) A native of Stanly County, Rudy Blalock spent part of his life in Michigan where he attended technical college. Changes in the economic situation required him to return home to Stanly County with an engineering technology degree only partially complete. His career explorations brought him to Stanly Community College (SCC), where Cathy Thurston encouraged him to take part in the Career Readiness Certificate (CRC) program, which is a state program designed to equip individuals with a recognizable skill certification that facilitates job placement, retention, and advancement.
The CRC program has three levels of certificates awarded: Bronze, Silver, and Gold, all based on WorkKeys Assessments. These assessments can be used by any entity concerned about the employability skills of current and future employees. Test results provide valuable information for individuals, employers, colleges, one-stop centers, job services, welfare-to-work programs, and occupational training programs.
Rudy was very successful in the CRC program and secured the highest level of certification, the Gold Certificate, and like all CRC certificates—Rudy's was signed by Governor Mike Easley.
Rudy says that he intends to complete his associate in science degree in engineering technology and find a rewarding career in the area. He credits his improved confidence level with his Gold Certificate and expects future job interviews to be easier and more productive.
If you would like more information about the Career Readiness Certificate program, contact Cathy Thurston, SCC Coordinator, Human Services Development at (704) 991-0279 or cthurston5381@stanly.edu or visit our website at www.stanly.edu.
Rudy Blalock accepts his Career Readiness Certificate from Cathy Thurston, SCC Coordinator, Human Resources Development.