Get Ready Today for the Jobs of Tomorrow

A number of recent announcements about jobs being created in North Louisiana over the coming year has us feeling kind of optimistic that the worst is over (and that North Louisiana is a place of choice for business decision-makers).  From the 1,400 jobs to be created in the near future at the V- Vehicle plant in Monroe to the 1,000 new jobs recently announced at US Support Company in Shreveport to the continued need for oil & gas services workers to support Haynesville Shale development, there are opportunities out there for job seekers.  But do you have the skills these companies are looking for?

With just a little investigation, you can learn what types of positions will likely be available at these companies and the required education and training.  Maybe you just need a high school diploma/GED, associate degree or bachelor degree, but are there certification programs offered locally that might make you more competitive?  NEON's Industry Sector Spotlight highlights they key industry sectors driving the North Louisiana economy and connects you with valuable information about skill sets needed by companies in those industries.

And if you find an industry or career path that seems right for you, now is the time to act with all the regional community and technical colleges soon to be open for Fall registration (see Upcoming Events for registration dates).

With a little thought and planning, you can prepare yourself to compete effectively for jobs on the horizon in North Louisiana.

Tip of the Month

If you are a graduate of a regional college or university, be sure to keep the Alumni Relations office up-to-date on your current contact information so you can be alerted to career fairs or other job seeker services offered by your school.  Many regional institutions have already announced Fall 2009 career fairs for their students and alumni.

Upcoming Events

• August 17-29, registration dates for regional community and technical colleges
• August & September have many opportunities for professional development and entrepreneurial training throughout North Louisiana
• August 22, Shreveport-Caddo Master Plan Visioning Forum, free and open to the public
• August 27, ATHENA Award luncheon

Click here to see our complete detailed calendar of upcoming career, networking and community events!

What kinds of skills are regional employers looking for?  Do you meet their ideal candidate profile?  Check out NEON's Employer Profiles to find the answers to these questions. 

To learn about specific talent needs of regional employers, visit NEON's Hiring News.

Training News

There are ample opportunities locally for you to add to your skills portfolio, making you more marketable to employers.  Below are some of the latest offerings at regional colleges and universities:

• Business & Entrepreneurial Skills Training, 12-wk program
• Cyber Info Tech degree at BPCC, registration fast approaching
• Upcoming Fall 2009 registration dates for colleges/universities in North La

New Employer Profiles

If you are currently seeking a job in North Louisiana or will soon begin the process, it helps to know your market.  Below are the latest regional companies profiled on the NEON website.  Click here to see the full list of profiled employers.

Did You know?

• The 36th International Conference and Exhibition on Computer Graphics and Interactive Techniques -- known as SIGGRAPH -- was held in New Orleans August 3-7.  Attendees from all over the world converged on the city for several days of eye-popping graphics lectures and mind-boggling exhibits of the latest in digital interactive and computer graphic technology. To read more about this event and digital interactive resources in Louisiana, click here.