Getting Back to Work after the Pandemic

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It’s been a year since the pandemic began shutting down the economy, and no one has been left unaffected. Many people have lost jobs or had their incomes reduced. In April 2020, our country faced the highest level of unemployment since the Great Depression in the 1930s. Today, joblessness in the U.S. is still well below pre-pandemic rates with around 10 million people unemployed.

Not everyone has been affected by economic hardship equally. Unemployment is one of many measures that highlights myriad equity and justice issues already existing in our society. In April 2020, according to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, Hispanic workers had an unemployment rate of 18.9%, compared to 16.7% for Black workers, and 14.2% for White workers. These gaps persist by race and ethnicity today, even though the economy is rebounding. And that does not address other factors that compound issues such as gender, age, disability and others.

The good news is, the economy is rebounding. To gauge the rebound, the US unemployment rate overall was 6.2% in Feb 2021, while at it’s height it was 14.8%. In February 2020, before the pandemic had a major impact on the U.S. economy, unemployment overall was 3.8%. Restrictions are slowly lifting, people are getting vaccinated at a high rate now, and that is sure to accelerate the economic rebound.

Here's How Taking a Class Might Help You Get the Job You Want

If you happen to be one of the people who has been facing economic hardship, you’re not alone! It's been an extremely difficult time for many. Since you’re reading this you might be wondering what resources we have to offer.

We offer classes focused on job skills relevant to the current job market that can help you prepare you for a new career or a position that you want. Taking a class now is a way to invest in future job opportunities that you find attractive. Benefits include:

  • Gain new knowledge and skills to prepare for a new job.
  • Expand or refresh your expertise and learn up-to-date information.
  • Explore a new skill set to test out if it's a good match for you.
  • Improve your resume and demonstrate your commitment to learning for prospective employers.
  • Earn a certification to strengthen your qualifications to help you get hired or promoted.
  • Boost your morale and gain momentum by taking action!

        Classes for Job Skills & Career Training

        Browse professional development courses by sector:

        These classes are designed to support people getting back to work after the pandemic:

        All of our classes continue to be offered online. Formats vary from live online in real-time via videoconferencing, self-paced or a combination. 

            Wishing you success with your job pursuits, whatever they may be. Happy spring!

            Spring is the Season of New Beginnings - Continuing Education at Seattle Central College

            Article by Liza Burke, June 10, 2021