Before enrolling in GrowHire, Mohamed was working part-time as a machine operator, but knew that healthcare was where he wanted to build a career. When Mohamed heard about GrowHire he was excited about this opportunity, that could serve as a pathway to gaining the hospital work experience he needs to pursue his long-term dream of one day being a medical assistant.
GrowHire teaches students how to navigate the healthcare system, provides support in resume development, and connects them with hiring managers in the field. GrowHire is a unique job-entry program that also focuses on building interpersonal skills in stress management, teamwork, and conflict resolution. Upon being hired, participants have the opportunity to join the Service Employees International Union (SEIU), for additional training and education in career development through a joint labor-management training fund.
During GrowHire training, Mohamed came to class everyday eager to learn and participate in class activities. When he would finish his assignments early, he would help other participants, to ensure the team was able to complete the work on time. Mohamed’s Navigator, Murtaza, was also able to support Mohamed secure reliable transportation and interview clothing.
With the goal of starting a healthcare career as soon as possible, Mohamed interviewed with Swedish and Kaiser Permanente. Unfortunately, the job search process was interrupted by COVID-19, but Mohamed remained determined to continue to apply and interview for Environmental Services Technician positions. After 4 months of many job applications and interviews, Mohamed was offered a full-time Environmental Services Technician/Direct Support Professional position with benefits at Aacres Washington. Mohamed is interested in the SEIU Medical Assistant Apprenticeship and will keep working on developing his skills to prepare for future Medical Assistant Apprenticeship opportunities.
The Key Industry and Workforce Development team within the Office of Economic Development (OED) focuses on the development and implementation of strategies to promote growth in key industry sectors including healthcare, maritime, manufacturing, IT, the creative sector and clean technology. This team focuses on improving access for underserved and underrepresented communities to careers in targeted growth industries—such as healthcare—and growing the skills of our current and future workforce. OED works closely with education and employer partners to align education and training programs with industry needs to give jobseekers targeted in-demand skills while also helping businesses access the talent they need to grow. Investments in programs such as GrowHire support our efforts in resourcing Seattlelites with the education and training they need to pursue their professional goals in growing industries.