MICC’s Careers Program offers a range of certificates in high-demand industries, including retail/hospitality, culinary, and health services.
Second-year College Program participants benefit from a collection of courses designed to increase their skills and knowledge, all while gaining practical experience through unique local practicum sites. Under the guidance of Careers instructors, participants are encouraged to choose a certificate that aligns with their strengths and interests.
In the Certificate Exploration class, first-year participants are given a chance to explore each certificate in depth. With the help of guest speakers, presentations, and projects based on each industry, participants can make informed choices about which program to pursue. Self-assessments help them identify their strengths and abilities, which they can then use to help choose their designation.
Once they have made their choice, participants undergo interviews with instructors to further determine their relevance to the program, assess their experience, and help them set future employment goals. This individualized approach helps ensure that each participant is placed in a program that is right for them.
Certificates are accredited by Century College, providing participants with a recognized certification that can help them stand out in the job market. The offered certificates are based on real job vacancies, demand, and outlook. According to the most recent labor statistics from the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development (MN DEED), Retail Salespersons, Fast Food and Counter Workers, Home Health and Personal Care Aides, Cashiers, and Customer Service Representatives are all in the top 10 highest-in-demand jobs in the Twin Cities metro area.
Participants who complete the program are better prepared to enter the job market, with many of the roles showing significant projected job growth rates. For example, Restaurant Cooks are projected to grow at a rate of 45.9%, while Home Health and Personal Care Aides are projected to grow at a rate of 24.1%.
As we work towards a world where autistic people thrive and are valued, it’s essential to recognize the unique talents and abilities of autistic individuals. By providing opportunities for education and training, we can help build a skilled workforce that is better equipped to succeed in a variety of industries. The MICC Careers Program is proud to be a part of this effort, offering our participants the chance to gain real-world experience and prepare for fulfilling careers.