Training Center

History

The Clinton L. Johnson Center for Economic Development (the "Center") is the home of a resource center that provide Mobilians, especially those of low wealth, job training, employability and educational assistance required to achieve economic independence and confidently enter, or advance, in the world of employment.  To accomplish this, the Center partners with many community and professional providers already expert in delivering the job training or education skills and resources.  In addition, the Center also programs its own offerings, particularly in the areas of Computer Training and Employability Training. 

Mission Statement

The primary mission of the Center is to equip low- and moderate-income individuals with resources that promote economic self-sufficiency and independence.  The Center's mission also focuses on maintaining strategic partnerships with other organizations throughout Mobile so that it can easily refer clients of the Center to those other providers.

The Facility

Economic Development Center pictureThe 25,000 square foot Center includes administrative offices a resource and technology center, computer training lab, retail store, small business incubator, and a child development center.  The Center also serves as the forum for many community meetings, business meetings and employment trainings.

JobTech Resource Technology Center

Job Tech pictureJobTech provides assistance to residents who seek to enhance their functional technology skills for the workforce. JobTech also includes a business resource library that has many books, videos, magazines and other resources to assist residents with business planning, financial planning, marketing, etc.  High-speed Internet access is also available.  All of the current services offered by JobTech are offered free or at a very minimal amount.

Small Business Incubator

Small Business Incubator pictureThe incubator has office space available for small start-up businesses or companies that have been in business for less than three years. Renting space in an incubator allows residents convenient access to a furnished office, fax machine, copier, computer, audio/video equipment, and a conference room. For leasing information, call (251) 470-0556.

Soaring Eagles Child Development Center

Child Development Center pictureThe Soaring Eagles Child Development Center offers on-site child daycare services and after-school care for children ages 18 months to 12 years old. Each age group has a pre-planned curriculum. the goal of the facility is to promote a positive atmosphere where key learning attitudes are encouraged and key learning skills are intentionally taught.  Computer skills are taught, and students take field trips. Operating hours are Mondays - Fridays from 7 a.m.. to 6 p.m.. For more information, call (251) 470-8603.

Career Development Programs

GED Tutoring

General Educational Development ("GED") assessment and preparation are available at the Center. These activities are held to help high school age persons to prepare for and take the GED Test, a high school equivalency test. Those who pass the test receive a high school equivalency certificate. GED assessments are given at the Center on Fridays. After completing this test, students will attend preparation classes until they are prepared to take the official GED Test. On-site classes are taught by instructors from a local college and learning is supplemented from computer-assisted self study. For more information about the Center's GED activities, call (251) 470-1728.

Small Business Development Workshops

Residents interested in owning their own business can obtain free workshop referrals. These workshops are offered periodically by the University of South Alabama Small Business Development Center, Women’s Business Assistance Center, and Mobile Area Chamber of Commerce. For more information, call (251) 470-1728.

SWEET-P Summer Jobs Program

Mobile Housing Authority (“MHA”) residents ages 16-23 may apply for summer jobs through SWEET-P (Summer Work Employment Experience Training Program). This program is sponsored by MHB and SWEET-P Investment Partners who sponsor and/or provide on-the-job training opportunities for high school and college students. The eight-week program provides student workers with pre-employment (soft skills) training, as well as on-the-job training in the public and private sector. To ensure program success, SWEET-P advisors visit job sites to offer assistance to the student workers and their supervisors, if needed. Occasionally, companies and agencies hire SWEET-P participants on a regular part-time or full-time basis. Applications are usually accepted in December and due in March. For more information about SWEET-P, call (251) 470-1728.

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