The art of portraying a poised, self-confident image in today’s demanding business atmosphere is a skill that is much too often overlooked by many professionals, but not by those observing and making critical judgments based upon the person’s communication.

To learn about this topic, job seekers are invited to attend a June 18 Business Etiquette virtual workshop, running from 10 a.m.to 12 p.m.

The event, hosted by the Greater Raritan Workforce Development Board and its partners, will be presented by Jan Goodman, a certified workforce development professional for the Greater Raritan One-Stop Career Training Services Center.

Topics to be covered include: how you can sabotage a positive first impressions; practicing business etiquette to build and maintain relationships; delivering your message in verbal, non-verbal and written way; proper introductions and professional presence, including grooming; and Netiquette.

This workshop it is open to all interested job seekers, and registration is required. To register, use the QR code in this flyer or go to https://bit.ly/3SO0wSu. An email confirmation will be sent upon registration completion.

This workshop is being presented in conjunction with a multi-employer in-person Recruitment Event focusing on Hospitality, Restaurant and Retail businesses in Somerset and Hunterdon counties, The event, presented by the New Jersey Department of Labor and Workforce Development and the Greater Raritan Workforce Development Board (GRWDB), will be conducted from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. Thursday, June 26, in the first-floor conference room of the Somerset County Human Services Building at 27 Warren St., Somerville.

While registration is appreciated, those who pre-register may be considered for pre-scheduled on-site interviews being conducted by some of the participating employers.

Employers scheduled to be in attendance (as of June 9) are: A La Carte Premier Servers (banquet servers), Enjoy Your Party, Hackensack Meridian Health (service roles), Masia Capital Group LLC – Dunkin’, ShopRite of Hunterdon County, The Rawson Group – Wendy’s, and T-Mobile.

Additional employers may be added so be sure to check back here on the GRWDB website.

Employers will be available for informational discussions and more. To register, use the QR code in this flyer or go to https://bit.ly/4kD5GNK. The registration form includes an updated list of employers, and instructions for resume sharing to be considered for the on-site interviews will accompany registration confirmation. Walk-ins are welcome but on-site interviews may not be possible.

For questions about either the June 18 workshop or June 26 event, email info@thegrwdb.org. or call 908-541-5790.

The Greater Raritan Workforce Development Board (GRWDB)
The GRWDB oversees $4 million annually in federal-, state- and county-funded career and employment services for businesses and residents in Hunterdon and Somerset counties. More information about these programs can be found on thegrwdb.org, including stories on initiatives, a resource tab for job seekers, and an updated calendar of events. Weekly text alerts highlight career and job opportunities in Somerset and Hunterdon counties. Text “one-stop” to 908-460-8144 to sign up.

During the three-hour 2025 Greater Raritan Job Fair on May 29 in Bridgewater, more than 600 job seekers met with nearly 70 employers.

More than 625 job seekers met with nearly 70 employers during the 2025 Greater Raritan Job Fair conducted on Thursday, May 29, at the Hindu Temple in Bridgewater.

The employers, from Somerset and Hunterdon counties as well as neighboring areas, have openings for hundreds of positions. Those who were unable to attend will find the list of employers and positions here.

This fourth annual event was presented by The Greater Raritan Workforce Development Board (GRWDB) and the New Jersey Department of Labor & Workforce Development (NJDOL) in collaboration with the temple. There was no charge to attend for employers or job seekers to attend event, which was the largest job fair the GRWDB has presented to date.

Throughout the three-hour event, job seekers from around the two counties as well as other counties and even New York streamed in to network with employers, share resumes and see what opportunities are available right now. Attendees also had the opportunity to participate in a career workshop offered by Jan Goodman, a certified workforce development professional with the Greater Raritan One-Stop Career Training Center. Her workshop, “How to Thrive During Transition and Change,” was attended by 50 individuals.

Lots of productive conversations occurred during the May 29 Greater Raritan Job Fair in Bridgewater.

The event was organized by the GRWDB working with state Business Services Representative Karen Araujo. Event day support was provided by GRWDB staff and members of the state Employment Services and Business Services teams. In addition to all the employers, attendees also had the opportunity to meet with state career specialists and get the latest information on local and state labor trends from a NJDOL Labor Market Information specialist. In addition, Somerset County provided electronic message boards starting the week prior to event and transported some 20 tables to supplement what the supply of the Hindu Temple.

This event has been made possible over the past four thanks to the leadership of the temple, which has offered the space at no charge as a community service,” GRWDB Director Paul Grzella said. “They are an outstanding community partner. As job seekers and employers were leaving, we had continuous thank you and “great turnout”  comments. This is just one many examples of how your local workforce development board and other government agencies work for you.”

Jan Goodman from the Greater Raritan One-Stop Career Training Center presented a career workshop during the Job Fair. It attended by 50 job seekers.

The 2025 Greater Raritan Job Fair team included staff members of the GRWDB and several team members from state Employment Services and Business Services teams.

The GRWDB and partners are now working on the next sector-focused recruitment, which will feature employers from the Hospitality, Restaurant and Retail sectors. This event will be presented from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. Thursday, June 26, in the first-floor conference room at 27 Warren St. in Somerville. Look for more details on the GRWDB website calendar on Wednesday, June 4, when the event flyer will be released and registration will open.

About the Greater Raritan Workforce Development Board

The GRWDB oversees federally and state-funded career and employment services for businesses and residents in Hunterdon and Somerset counties. More information about these programs can be found on thegrwdb.org, including stories on initiatives, a resource tab for job seekers which features hundreds of new job postings weekly, and an updated calendar of events. Weekly text alerts highlight career and job opportunities in Somerset and Hunterdon counties. Text “one-stop” to 908-460-8144 to sign up. For more information about GRWDB services, email info@thegrwdb.org. For information about state business services, contact Karen.Araujo@dol.nj.gov.

Applications have closed for the 2025 Summer Youth Work Experience Program sponsored by the Greater Raritan Workforce Development Board (GRWDB).

This is the sixth consecutive year that the GRWDB is sponsoring the summer youth program with funding from the New Jersey Department of Labor and Workforce Development (NJDOL). It is one of 10 funded NJDOL-programs around the state. The Greater Raritan SYWEP has served 227 youth in providing work experience with 109 employers since its inception.

In the 2024 GRWDB program, 83 youth worked for 33 different employers. Based on that success, the GRWDB has received a state grant of $349,159.00 to support 90 paid work experiences.

For this year’s program, youth participants can work any 200-hour period that ends on October 15. Participants must be between the ages of 16 and 24 and can be in school or out of school. Those accepted into the program will work 180 hours with the employer and complete another 20 hours of online and in-person career-readiness training and peer coaching sessions directed by the GRWDB. The youth participant’s tax-free stipend will be $17.00 an hour, for a total of $3,400.00, if all 200 hours are completed.

Any private or public employer of any size in Hunterdon and Somerset counties with available part-time positions was eligible to apply for this year’s program. The initial applications were due on April 8 and a second round of applications closed on May 15. In all, 39 employers in both counties have been qualified to be part of the program. The employer’ positions include: various governmental roles in administration, human resources, health and human services and public works; summer camp assistant roles; office work for a variety of private and non-profit businesses; outdoor work for some public agencies in both counties; and more.

By the youth application deadline on May 12, more than 200 young people completed documents to be considered for participation. Jeanne Cassano, the GRWDB’s contract compliance and engagement specialist and coordinator for the summer youth program, is working to match the youth applicants with the available positions. Employers and youth will talk prior to the matches being finalized.

“Over six years, the GRWDB has grown the summer youth program from eight participants to 90 for 2025,” Cassano said. “Last year, four participants stayed on with their employers, so we know the goal of helping reinforce successful work habits is happening. SYWEP helps young people stay and work in our two counties.”

Anyone with questions can contact Cassano at jcassano@co.somerset.nj.us or call 908-541-5785.

June 16 Presentation

The Greater Raritan Workforce Development Board (GRWDB)
The GRWDB oversees $4 million annually in federal-, state- and county-funded career and employment services for businesses and residents in Hunterdon and Somerset counties. More information about these programs can be found on thegrwdb.org, including stories on initiatives, a resource tab for job seekers, and an updated calendar of events. Weekly text alerts highlight career and job opportunities in Somerset and Hunterdon counties. Text “one-stop” to 908-460-8144 to sign up.

Employers in Somerset and Hunterdon Counties are invited to contact the Greater Raritan Workforce Development Board (GRWDB) today to learn how SkillUp Greater Raritan Metrix Learning^® can be used to provide free upskilling training to staff.

“It is always more effective to retain employees than to hire new, and training current staff for new skills that can make them better at their jobs or ready for promotion is a key retention tool,” said Commissioner Doug Singleterry, liaison to the GRWDB. “We’re proud to provide programs like the SkillUp training initiative to local employers to grow their businesses here in Somerset County.”

SkillUp Greater Raritan is a free online learning-management system featuring more than 7,000 courses, which can be done individually or with cohorts. The courses can be used for new hires, development for longtime workers and manager skill enhancement. The $199 per person cost of the employee training program will be covered by GRWDB grant dollars.

Employers can choose a preset learning path, or they can customize the employee learning system to fit their needs. Metrix Learning^® personnel, offering white-glove service, will collaborate with employers to create a program that fits their learning needs. This easy online learning-management system will also keep track of employees’ course progress, course completion, and hours of training.

Employers interested in getting started with this program may email info@thegrwdb.org or call 908-541-5790, and they will be connected to the GRWDB’s Metrix Learning training partner.

Individual Training Opportunities

SkillUp Greater Raritan was introduced by the GRWDB in the spring of 2020 as an online learning platform that individuals in both counties can use for free to enhance their skills and career prospects. Since its introduction, more than 4,000 individuals have signed up for their six-month 24/7 platform access and trained in a variety of disciplines and skills..

This spring, the platform rolled out several updates to make the experience even better. Updates include:

• New courses on Leadership, AI & Machine Learning, and Cybersecurity
• Closed captioning in 50-plus languages
• A revamped course player for an improved learning experience.

Residents of Somerset and Hunterdon counties can sign up anytime by going to thegrwdb.metrixlearning.com.

New users can also join a live webinar to learn how to use the Metrix Learning portal. Join on:

• Tuesdays @7 p.m. EST: https://bit.ly/MetrixTipsTuesday
• Thursdays @2 p.m. EST: https://bit.ly/MetrixTipsThursday.

About the Greater Raritan Workforce Development Board
The GRWDB oversees federally and state-funded career and employment services for businesses and residents in Hunterdon and Somerset counties. More information about these programs can be found on thegrwdb.org, including stories on initiatives, a resource tab for job seekers, and an updated calendar of events. Weekly text alerts highlight career and job opportunities in Somerset and Hunterdon counties. Text “one-stop” to 908-460-8144 to sign up. Email info@thegrwdb.org. or call 908-541-5790.

At least five of the 70-plus job seekers who attended a Wednesday, March 26, in-person Recruitment Event were offered positions, and several others are being considered for follow-up interviews, according to the event’s employer participants.

The event, presented by the New Jersey Department of Labor and Workforce Development and the Greater Raritan Workforce Development Board (GRWDB), focused on the Manufacturing, Construction and Transportation sectors and was conducted at the Hunterdon County Chamber of Commerce Center for Business & Entrepreneurship in Flemington.

A key feature of the quarterly sector-focused job fairs begun in January is the ability for job seekers to go through the list of open positions as they register and then send in their resumes which are forwarded to some of the employers who conduct on-site interviews during the event. Data on the March event will continue to be collected over the next few weeks, but the early indicators of success mirror what happened after the first event on January 14 which featured a dozen healthcare businesses in the counties and attracted 119 job seekers. Of those, at least 15 were offered positions.

The employers in attendance on March 26 were:

• Coach USA
• DeSapio Construction Inc. in Frenchtown
• FedEx in East Brunswick
• Hitran Corp. in Flemington
• Johanna Foods in Flemington
• Magna-Power Electronics in Flemington
• Pave Rite Inc. in Bridgewater
• Schaible’s Plumbing, Heating & Water Treatment in Hampton
• Solventum in Flemington
• Thermo Fisher Scientific in Bridgewater
• Trident Maritime Systems in High Bridge

The employers have dozens of job openings, including Production and Quality Control, Packaging, Shipping and Receiving, General Laborer, Manufacturing Supervisor, CDL Class A Truck Driver, Bus Driver, and many more. While a lot of networking went on during the event, 27 interviews also were conducted.

Employers said they were pleased with how the event was organized, particularly the effort of setting up interviews in advance. “The flow of interested candidates was impressive,” one employer commented.

To help prepare for the event, a March 18 Business Etiquette virtual workshop was presented by Jan Goodman, a certified workforce development professional for the Greater Raritan One-Stop Career Training Services Center. That workshop attracted more than 50 participants.

Two more quarterly sector-focused events are planned in 2025: on June 26 in Somerville and on Sept. 25 in Flemington. In addition, single-employer events will continue to be planned by GRWDB state partners and the 2025 GRWDB Job Fair will be conducted on May 29 at the Hindu Temple in Bridgewater. Employers interested in taking part may register here. Job seeker registration will open on April 28.

For questions about future recruitment event, email info@thegrwdb.org. or call 908-541-5790.

About the Greater Raritan Workforce Development Board
The GRWDB oversees federally and state-funded career and employment services for businesses and residents in Hunterdon and Somerset counties. More information about these programs can be found on thegrwdb.org, including stories on initiatives, a resource tab for job seekers, and an updated calendar of events. Weekly text alerts highlight career and job opportunities in Somerset and Hunterdon counties. Text “one-stop” to 908-460-8144 to sign up.

Are you feeling stressed in your job search?

From the end of June 23 to the middle of August, the Greater Raritan Workforce Development Board and Empower Somerset are offering a free eight-week virtual program for community members entitled Bridge to Success. The stress-management techniques shared in this series focus on behavioral, social, and cognitive coping strategies that can be used to address stressful situations at home, work, and interpersonal relationships. These strategies are designed to help participants survive and thrive during the job-search process, and in life.

The virtual series will run every Monday from 6 to 7 p.m. beginning on June 23 to August 11.

The class is limited to 20 participants and participants must have their cameras on for every session. Those taking part in the program are expected to attend all sessions. The program includes a $50 Amazon gift card for completion.

To register, go here or use the link in this flyer.

Over the past three years, nearly 200 individuals have participated in this series presented annually by the two agencies. It continues to be offered because of the positive participant response.

About the Greater Raritan Workforce Development Board
The GRWDB oversees federally and state-funded career and employment services for businesses and residents in Hunterdon and Somerset counties. More information about these programs can be found on thegrwdb.org, including stories on initiatives, a resource tab for job seekers, and an updated calendar of events. Weekly text alerts highlight career and job opportunities in Somerset and Hunterdon counties. Text “one-stop” to 908-460-8144 to sign up. Email info@thegrwdb.org. or call 908-541-5790.

At the beginning of 2025, 15 more students benefited from the Raritan Valley Community College Scholarship Program, which is supported by the Somerset and Hunterdon Boards of County Commissioners and funds from the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA).

With the latest round of scholarships, a total of 62 students in the two counties have used the funding to support their career-focused educational efforts. The scholarship program began in the fall of 2022, when a portion of funds received from the ARPA was allocated by the commissioner boards in the two counties to need-based career scholarships for training programs in high-demand industries offered at the Branchburg-based RVCC. The scholarships were made possible through recommendations and collaboration between the Greater Raritan Workforce Development Board (GRWDB) and the Hunterdon and Somerset County Boards of Commissioners.

This summer and fall, the commissioner boards of both counties directed additional ARPA funding to continue the in-demand career scholarship program, with the Somerset County commissioners allocating $200,000 in funding that will be available in 2025 and 2026.

“I would like to express my sincere appreciation for the grant from Somerset County,” said Somerset, Franklin, resident Dawna Scott, one of 43 students who used the scholarship fund to complete RVCC’s Phlebotomy Program. “I am optimistic that my participation in the Phlebotomy Lab Assistance course at RVCC will lead to employment opportunities in the phlebotomy sector. The course was well-organized, and the combination of theoretical knowledge and practical experience was highly beneficial.”

The skills taught in the course and the teacher leading the course have helped Rachel Price of Somerville become stronger and more confident. “Thank you for this opportunity,” she added. “Thank you for some valuable life lessons I learned while here and thank you for giving me confidence to believe in myself in this new journey.”

In addition to the phlebotomy technician program students, since the program began four received scholarships in the electrocardiogram (ECG) technician program, seven in the welding program and eight in the manufacturing program. All these pathway programs are housed in RVCC’s Workforce Training Center.

The career-training scholarship program began in 2022 with a request for funding from the GRWDB. As a result of the request, the Boards of Commissioners allocated from 2022 to 2024 a total of $106,546 to the RVCC Career Scholarship grant program. Somerset County students received $88,000, and Hunterdon County students obtained $18,546 in scholarship funding. The initial funding was available until the end of 2024, and the additional funding allocated by Somerset County will be available over the next two years.

“Hunterdon County’s partnership with RVCC and the GRWDB is truly paying dividends for students in Hunterdon County,” said Hunterdon County Commissioner Zachary Rich, liaison to the GRWDB.

As of December 18, 2024, 54 Somerset County residents and eight Hunterdon County residents have received scholarships. The scholarships pay for the program training costs as well as for related book and exam fees, and as-needed background and liability insurance.

“Somerset County is pleased to continue partnering with the GRWDB and RVCC to help our students gain the skills and certifications necessary for good-paying jobs in new and exciting industries,” said Somerset County Commissioner Doug Singleterry, liaison to the GRWDB. “The $200,000 in new scholarships is a down payment not just for this year’s 23 scholarship recipients, but for Somerset County’s economic future.”

The scholarship recipients come from all communities in the two counties. In Somerset County, Bridgewater and Franklin had 10 students each, and the other recipients came from Bedminster, Bernards, Branchburg, Bound Brook, Far Hills, Green Brook, Hillsborough, Manville, North Plainfield, Raritan Borough, Somerville, Warren and Watchung. In Hunterdon County, students came from Annandale, Flemington, Lebanon, Milford and Whitehouse Station. Recipients ranged in age and life experiences, with some employed, others seeking employment, and some are new Americans. All recipients were excited to venture into a new career.

Shaunalee Cunningham expressed her “sincere thanks for your generous support. This scholarship will significantly ease the financial burden of my education and allow me to fully focus on achieving my academic goals. I am honored to be selected and promise to make the most of this opportunity.”

Another student said the scholarship came at important point in her life, because she has been on disability and has been unable to work, so this helps her alleviate her current economic situation.

“The scholarships allow breathing room for students who may otherwise be faced with the choice of paying for education or paying for rent or healthcare,” said GRWDB Board Member Joanne Hala.

To view Career Training opportunities at Raritan Valley Community College, visit https://www.raritanval.edu/career-training.

To learn more about the RVCC Career Scholarship grant program, email Maryam Sheikh at the Workforce Training Center of RVCC at Maryam.Sheikh@raritanval.edu.

More information about the GRWDB, its program partners and area workforce system services can be found at www.thegrwdb.org.

The Greater Raritan Workforce Development Board (GRWDB)
The GRWDB oversees $4 million annually in federal-, state- and county-funded career and employment services for businesses and residents in Hunterdon and Somerset counties. In recent years, it has expanded its footprint of services and programs, to ensure that it is connecting job seekers to career-development pathway opportunities around the region.

Walk-in, appointment, virtual and phone services are available to career seekers in Somerset and Hunterdon Counties through the Greater Raritan One-Stop Career Center offices and partners in Somerville and Flemington.

• The Greater Raritan One-Stop Career Center Employment Services office and the Division of Vocational Rehabilitation Services (DVRS) office at 75 Veterans Memorial Blvd. in Somerville are open for walk-in services 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday to Friday, excluding state holidays. For information on Employment Services, call 908-704-3000. For information on DVRS, call 908-704-3030. To schedule an appointment, use this form.
• The Greater Raritan One-Stop Career Training Center on the second floor of 27 Warren St. in Somerville is open for walk-in services from 8:30 a.m.to 4:30 p.m. Monday to Friday, excluding county holidays. Call 908-541-5780; email onestop@co.somerset.nj.us.
• The Greater Raritan One-Stop Career Center at 6 Gauntt Place in Flemington is open for walk-in services 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday to Wednesday, and by appointment on Thursday and Friday, as well as phone and virtual services, excluding county holidays. Call 908-237-0016; email onestop@co.somerset.nj.us.

While walk-in service is available at all these offices, appointments are encouraged to ensure staff will be available as needed by career seekers looking for assistance with job search, resume assistance, training assistance and general career questions. These offices also have public-use computers available for career-related work.

Staff members of the Greater Raritan Workforce Development Board (GRWDB) are available for walk-in and appointment service from 8:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. on the third floor of 27 Warren St. in Somerville. Call 908-541-5790 or email info@thegrwdb.org.

For more information on general system services, visit the home page of www.thegrwdb.org. For the English-language flyer with an overview of services, click here. For the Spanish-language flyer with an overview of services, click here.

Unemployment assistance is not available at any Greater Raritan location. Those with unemployment questions may call 732-761-2020 or visit https://myunemployment.nj.gov to explore additional resources or make an appointment for in-person assistance at one of 13 locations around the state.

The Greater Raritan Workforce Development Board oversees federally and state-funded career and employment services for businesses and residents in Hunterdon and Somerset counties. Weekly text alerts highlight career and job opportunities in Somerset and Hunterdon counties. Text “onestop” to 565-12 to sign up.

Literacy classes offered by the partners of the Greater Raritan Workforce Development resumed in February. The offerings include the spring classes of First Steps Basic English, a free English-language learning program for residents of Somerset County. First Steps classes are running from February 2025 to June 2025, and the application has closed.

The program, funded through 2026 by the Somerset County Board of Commissioners through funds from the American Rescue Plan, is part of the free adult literacy programs for English-language learners in Hunterdon and Somerset counties.

First Steps Basic English has served more than 150 individuals since being launched as a pilot in September of 2023. For 2025, classes and small group instruction will continue to be offered around Somerset County, including in: Bernardsville, Bound Brook, Franklin Township, Hillsborough, Manville, North Plainfield, Raritan Borough and Somerville, as well as on Zoom.

The program funds a Literacy Navigator, based with the Literacy Volunteers of Somerset County (LVSC). Stella Nieves, the Literacy Navigator, will work with applicants to try to place them in the different planned classes and small groups based on the applicant’s residence and program space availability. As participants go through classes, she also continues to work with them and their teachers, to see if the participants’ progress makes them eligible to participate in other literacy programs available through different vendors.

Space is limited for the First Steps Basic English program, and waiting lists are developed. Applicants also may be referred to other literacy services in the county as appropriate. For more information, email snieves@literacysomerset.org or visit www.thegrwdb.org/esl.

Providers of the program include LVSC, Raritan Valley Community College (RVCC) and the Hunterdon County Educational Services Commission (HCECS), working with the Greater Raritan Workforce Development Board (GRWDB). Libraries throughout the county also support the initiative by providing space for the classes and small-group instruction. These partners are part of the GRWDB’s Literacy Committee, which seeks to share information about and expand the effectiveness of the free literacy programs in both Hunterdon and Somerset Counties.

Other existing literacy programs offered by First Steps partners in Hunterdon and Somerset counties receive separate state and federal funding. Testing and placement are ongoing for these services and conducted in the late summer/early fall and winter. These include:

RVCC: The college offers free literacy and English language skills classes, including some targeted to help individuals prepare for in-demand career opportunities. There are separate Workforce ESL and Title II programs. Registration is going on through March for the Title II classes, and testing is slated to start on March. 29. with classes starting in April. These flyers have more information, in English and Spanish. To learn more, visit raritanval.edu/esl-courses. For Workforce ESL, contact Maryam.Sheikh@raritanval.edu or 908-526-1200, Ext. 8462; for Title II ESL, contact Takecia.Saylor@raritanval.edu.

HCESC: The agency offers a variety of free English literacy classes, including English Language Acquisition and high school equivalency classes, in locations around Somerset and Hunterdon Counties. To find out more, visit hunterdonesc.org and click on the Adult Programs/English Classes or High School Equivalency links, or email adultliteracy@hunterdonesc.org, or zcastroabrica@hunterdonesc.org (Spanish).

Other literacy service providers in Hunterdon and Somerset counties:

LVSC: For more information about other services, including one-on-one tutoring, volunteering or becoming a tutor, call 908-725-5430, or visit LiteracySomerset.org.

Hunterdon Helpline, ESL: Volunteers at Hunterdon Helpline provide free literacy services through custom, one-on-one, barrier-free individual instruction, for beginner to advanced English language levels. To obtain an application, email literacy@helplinehc.com, call 908-782-4357, or visit www.helplinehc.org.

About the Greater Raritan Workforce Development Board
The GRWDB oversees federally and state-funded career and employment services for businesses and residents in Hunterdon and Somerset counties. More information about these programs can be found on https://www.thegrwdb.org , including stories on initiatives, a Resource tab for job seekers, and an updated calendar of events. Weekly text alerts highlight career and job opportunities in Somerset and Hunterdon counties. Text “onestop” to 565-12 to sign up. Email info@thegrwdb.org or call 908-541-5790.

More than 140 community members, employers and agency representatives attended Somerset County’s first Veterans Resource, Job and Wellness Fair, conducted on Thursday, October 10, at the Senior Wellness Center at Bridgewater, 876 E. Main St. Scenes from the event, taken by Tyler Brown of the Somerset County Public Information Office, are shared here.

 This free event offered valuable resources and information about services, health and wellness, employment, networking opportunities and more. County Commissioner Director Shanel Y. Robinson presented a brief keynote, thanking the 50 local employers and agencies for their support of the Veteran community. Among the employers in attendance were American Water, Bridgewater Marriot, the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Federal Air Marshal Service, Fiserv, Johnson & Johnson and the New Jersey Department of Transportation. Several local and Somerset County agencies also were in attendance. Job seekers in attendance said they were able to make many positive connections while getting needed information from local agencies.

If you were unable to attend, please click here to see a list of the participating business and employers.

About the Greater Raritan Workforce Development Board: The GRWDB oversees federally and state-funded career and employment services for businesses and residents in Hunterdon and Somerset counties. For more information about board services, visit www.thegrwdb.org. Text “onestop” to 565-12.

Businesses in Hunterdon and Somerset counties can get no-cost employment assistance with two Greater Raritan Workforce Development Board (GRWDB)-sponsored projects: a new Employment Pipeline Initiative and the board’s ongoing Youth Work Experience program,

Employment Pipeline Initiative

The Employment Pipeline Initiative, recently launched by Fernandel Almonor, Greater Raritan’s One-Stop Operator, aims to link employers in the two counties to the qualified talent pool assisted by partners in the local workforce system.

The Employment Pipeline can be utilized by businesses of all sizes and types. This includes healthcare, manufacturing, transportation and logistics, IT and more. This new service comes at no cost businesses – the program’s aim is to save employers time and resources in acquiring new staff.

To register for and join the pipeline initiative, use this registration link or QR code in this flyer. For more information, contact Almonor at falmonor@co.somerset.nj.us.

Youth Work Experience Program

Employers in Hunterdon and Somerset counties can help prepare the next generation of workers by hosting a 20-hour, paid work experience for young people, ages 16 to 24, who are involved in the GRWDB’s YES Visions program. YES provides its youth participants with employment readiness skills to prepare them for the workforce, and experiencing a local workforce site is key to the program’s success.

Middle Earth, the vendor for the Visions program, provides a stipend for the youth during their work experience and supports the placements for the youth and employers. A variety of work experiences are needed for the program participants.

More details are available in this flyer; local businesses may contact Alexis Williams, the program coordinator, at awilliams@middlearthnj.org.

About the Greater Raritan Workforce Development Board
The GRWDB oversees federally and state-funded career and employment services for businesses and residents in Hunterdon and Somerset counties. More information about business programs can be found on the Resources – Employers page of www.thegrwdb.org. Email info@thegrwdb.org or call 908-541-5790.

Through policy, oversight, and planning The Greater Raritan Workforce Development Board (GRWDB) ensures that workforce training and education are responsive to and meet the needs of employers and job seekers.

Your local workforce system, serving Hunterdon and Somerset counties, continues to evolve how it provides services and reaches out to the community about those services. The GRWDB is part of statewide workforce system that connects employers and residents to a range of in-person and virtual career-related services, including the tens of thousands of open positions available in New Jersey.

Working with the Somerset County Public Information Office, system partners collaborated on videos to explain our mission, vision and services for employers and job seekers in these ever-changing times.

Go here to hear about our services for employers. Employers also can go to the resources/employers tab on our website for more links and information.

Go here to hear about our services for job seekers. Job seekers also can go to the resources / job seekers tab on our website for more links and information.

Go here to hear about the Youth Employment Services (YES) Program.

The Greater Raritan Workforce Development Board and its partners offer a variety of free programs and resources to assist job seekers. This includes assistance with job search, resume reviews, career counseling, career-related webinars and workshops, information on training grants for unemployed and underemployed individuals, and connection to career services for low-income residents. Additional free resources available in Hunterdon and Somerset counties include Greater Raritan Resume Portal, SkillUp Greater Raritan, and a variety of literacy services highlighted in this English-language flyer and this Spanish-language flyer. More details on the Local Area’s literacy services may be found at https://www.thegrwdb.org/ESL.

In addition, the GRWDB and state partners provide a variety of services to employers, including Virtual Information Sessions and in-person Recruitment Events for companies hiring in the two counties, as well as On-the-Job Training and Incumbent Worker Training opportunities to support workforce development. Go to the Resources – Employers tab of www.thegrwdb.org.

Details on new and ongoing programs and events for job seekers and employes can be found in the constantly updated Events/Calendar tab of www.thegrwdb.org/.

Service models offered by Greater Raritan One-Stop partners reflect what is happening and is wanted by customers today, with hybrid models offering appointment in-person services along with a virtual suite of services.

• The Greater Raritan One-Stop Career Training Service Center at 27 Warren St., second floor, in Somerville is open for walk-in career-related services 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday to Friday.  Call 908-541-5780 or email onestop@co.somerset.nj.us.
• Walk-in career-related services are available 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday to Wednesday at the Greater Raritan One-Stop Career Center at 6 Gauntt Place in Flemington. Appointment-only services are available Thursday and Friday. Call 908-237-0016 or email onestop@co.somerset.nj.us.
• Staff members at the Greater Raritan One-Stop / Employment Services Center and the Division of Vocational Rehabilitation Services (DVRS) at 75 Veterans Memorial Drive in Somerville are available for walk-in service as well as in-person and phone appointments seeking career-related services.  Offices are open 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday to Friday, excluding state holidays. To schedule an appointment with Employment Services in Somerville, call 908-704-3000; in Flemington, call 908-782-2371. Contact DVRS at 908-704-3030. Residents also can fill out this virtual form to detail what help they need and request an appointment; the completed form will be directed to local officials for direct response.

While walk-ins are welcomed at the offices, appointments are encouraged to ensure staff availability. Staff in all offices also assist customers over the phone, via email and through virtual appointments, and a virtual orientation session for new customers is conducted on Friday mornings by Training Center staff. Virtual career-webinars also continue, as do virtual and in-person job fairs.

PathStone provides customized, people-centered professional development services leading to portable skills and enhanced employability for diverse individuals, including unemployed and under-employed mature workers aged 55+. Call 609-498-0800 or email gargant@pathstone.org.

Learn more about Greater Raritan services

The Greater Raritan One-Stop Training Services Center team also created a fun and informative series of videos called P.E.P. (Preparing for Employment Possibilities) Talks. Watch:

• Meet the Team
• What Does Your E-Mail Address Say About You
• Sending Professional E-mails
• Online Resources
• Foundations of Resumes
• ITAs and Tuition Waivers
• Phone Etiquette
• Interview Questions
• Tour of the Flemington One-Stop
• Tour of the Somerville One-Stop
• Social Media and Your Job Search
• Cover Letters
• Interview Questions

System services assist a variety of populations and residents. These includes programs for residents of either county receiving Temporary Assistance for Needy Families, General Assistance or Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program. As part of this program effort, the Greater Raritan Workforce Development Board offers a Chromebook Loaner Program for eligible participants. Another targeted service is the Youth Employment Services Program (YES Program), for out-of-school youth, ages 16 to 24, in Hunterdon and Somerset counties.  Learn more by reading this program brochure, in English and Spanish.

Learn more about New Jersey services

Career services for job seekers also are highlighted on the New Jersey Department of Labor and Workforce Development’s website.  Start with My Career NJ, a state interactive digital hub – accessible in English and Spanish – centralizing personalized career resources. Job seekers visiting My Career NJ can take advantage of training programs, thousands of online classes for upskilling, and career recommendations that fit their skills and aspirations. The site features two new digital career tools: the NJ Training Explorer and the NJ Career Navigator. The Training Explorer enables customized filtering of training programs, provides information on tuition assistance, and gives users insight into the providers that offer programs that meet their skill-building needs. The Career Navigator leverages data and machine learning to generate personalized job and career recommendations that align with each user’s skill set, employment history, and individual professional goals.

Please note: The majority of unemployment-related services are being done online or through a call centers. Residents also can schedule in-person appointments at 13 designated One-Stop Career Center locations throughout New Jersey. (Greater Raritan is NOT among those locations.) Appointments and pre-screening are required; no walk-ins will be served. 

Customers who need to file new Unemployment Insurance claims, update existing claims, have questions about their claims or want to make an make an in-person appointment may go to https://myunemployment.nj.gov;  click on “Check claim status” and then “Schedule Appointments Online,” following the page prompts. If a participant has an issue with UI enrollment or current claim, they can email UIRegionalOffice@dol.nj.gov. Customers unable to access the Internet should call the following numbers: North Jersey, 201-601-4100; Central Jersey, 732-761-2020; Southern Jersey: 856-507-2340. 

There are also numerous state and community programs and resources available to those who need additional support. For information on assistance in the areas of family, food, child care, health, substance use disorder, rent, housing, utilities, and specialized services for older adults, individuals with disabilities, and survivors of domestic or sexual violence, please visit myunemployment.nj.gov/morehelp.  

Weekly text alerts highlighting career and job opportunities in Somerset and Hunterdon counties are available by texting “onestop” to 908-460-8144. Contact the Greater Raritan Workforce Development Board at info@thegrwdb.org or 908-541-5790.

For more information about services for employers, go to the GRWDB website here. For more information about services for job seekers, go here.