/PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Secretary of Labor Hilda L. Solis today announced a weekly increase in unemployment compensation, as provided for in the stimulus legislation, the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009, enacted on Feb. 17.
The new temporary Federal Additional Compensation program will provide a $25 weekly increase in unemployment compensation for eligible workers. These extra benefits are 100 percent federally-funded.
The stimulus legislation also extended the Emergency Unemployment Compensation program, which was scheduled to expire on Aug. 27, 2009. "The program has been extended to Dec. 31, 2009, for new applications, with a 'phase-out' period ending May 31, 2010," said Secretary Solis. "Both the Emergency Unemployment Compensation and the Federal Additional Compensation programs provide temporary financial support to unemployed workers to help them pay for basic necessities such as food, clothing, medicine and gasoline while they look for new jobs."
To qualify for these benefits, unemployed workers must first be determined eligible for unemployment benefits by the appropriate state workforce agency. Workers must have earned sufficient wages from prior recent employment and have been separated from employment for non-disqualifying reasons (as determined under state law). Eligible workers must also be able to work and be available for work while receiving these unemployment benefits.
All 50 states, the District of Columbia, the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands have executed agreements with the U.S. Department of Labor to administer these programs. States will begin to make the extra payments as early as the week of March 1, 2009, for weeks of unemployment effective Feb. 22, 2009.
For information on unemployment compensation, visit http://www.dol.gov/.
FACT SHEET
EMERGENCY UNEMPLOYMENT COMPENSATION AND FEDERAL ADDITIONAL COMPENSATION UNDER AMERICAN RECOVERY AND REINVESTMENT ACT OF 2009
Emergency Unemployment Compensation, 2008 (EUC08) - Program Extension
-- The EUC08 program, created on June 30, 2008, provides up to 20 weeks
of federally-funded benefits to eligible unemployed workers who have
collected all their regular state unemployment benefits. An
additional 13 weeks of EUC are available in states with high levels of
unemployment.
-- The EUC08 program was scheduled to expire on Aug. 27, 2009. The
stimulus legislation, Public Law Number 111-5, which was enacted on
Feb. 17, 2009, extends the expiration date of the EUC08 program to May
31, 2010.
-- The period during which an individual may establish eligibility for
EUC08 is extended from March 31, 2009, to the week of unemployment
ending on or before Dec. 31, 2009, and the "phase-out" or expiration
date of the program is extended from Aug. 27, 2009 to May 31, 2010.
-- The stimulus legislation does not provide additional weeks of benefits
for individuals who have or will exhaust their EUC08 benefits.
Federal Additional Compensation (FAC)
-- The stimulus legislation also created a new FAC program that provides
a $25 supplement that is payable to individuals receiving state
unemployment compensation (UC) or Federal UC. The $25 supplement does
not apply to state-financed Additional Compensation programs.
-- All 50 states, the District of Columbia, the Commonwealth of Puerto
Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands executed agreements with the
secretary of labor to administer this new program on behalf of the
federal government on or before Feb. 21, 2009; therefore, the program
is effective Feb. 22, 2009, in all states/jurisdictions.
-- States are modifying their automated benefit payment systems to
implement FAC. Many states will begin to make payments during the week
of March 1, 2009, for weeks of unemployment effective Feb. 22, 2009.
However, due to the complexity of changing automated systems, some
states have advised that they may implement later, making payments
retroactively.
States will calculate the individual's weekly benefit amount and make any adjustments in accordance with state law to account for any earnings, and any other deductions (for example, severance and retirement/pension payments).
-- The $25 supplement is taxable. Therefore, states will include the
total benefits received including the $25 increase(s) in issuing a
1099G to claimants.
-- The $25 supplement/payments will be paid from federal general
revenues. States will receive administrative costs associated with
implementing the $25 add-on.
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Thursday, February 26, 2009
Sunday, February 22, 2009
Microsoft Equips Individuals With New Training Resources Needed for Jobs
/PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Microsoft Corp. today announced a new initiative, Elevate America, which will provide up to 2 million people over the next three years with the technology training needed to succeed in the 21st-century economy.
Microsoft has worked for years with other businesses and community-based partners to broaden access to job opportunities through information technology education and training. Elevate America expands these efforts and provides immediate support in response to the current economic crisis in partnership with others in the public and private sector.
Elevate America has two main offerings, one available immediately and one that will be provided in partnership with state governments including those of Florida, New York and Washington.
A new online resource, located at http://www.microsoft.com/ElevateAmerica, is available today. This new Web site helps individuals understand what types of technical skills they need for the jobs and entrepreneurial opportunities of today and tomorrow, and resources to help acquire these skills. The Web site provides access to several Microsoft online training programs, including how to use the Internet, send e-mail and create a resume, as well as more advanced programs on using specific Microsoft applications.
In order to provide a broader range of training programs and certification exams, Microsoft will also partner with state and local governments, which in turn will make these resources available to their citizens. Pamela Passman, corporate vice president of Microsoft Global Corporate Affairs, today announced that Florida, New York and Washington will be the first states to provide Elevate America to their residents. Washington Gov. Chris Gregoire says that programs such as Elevate America are critical to providing support to Washington families and helping the economy recover.
"At the federal, state and local level, leaders are working together to help start the engine of economic growth. The private sector provides much of the spark needed to jump-start that engine," Gregoire said. "Elevate America is a great example of Microsoft's leadership on education and work force development -- issues that bring us a step closer to recovery by helping us provide critically important help to our citizens. Washington state is pleased to be one of the first states to partner with Microsoft to provide Elevate America to our residents."
Florida Gov. Charlie Crist said that the success of the Elevate Miami program in his state is proof that public-private partnerships can work and benefit citizens. "We have worked with Microsoft for years in Miami to bring technology training to underserved populations," he said. "Now, with Elevate America, we have the opportunity to bring these important skills to even more people, at a time when they are needed more than ever."
Elevate America is an extension of Microsoft's long-standing commitment to provide skills training and certification through schools, government programs and community-based organizations. The Unlimited Potential Community Technology Skills Program is an example of how Microsoft is already working to bridge the technology skills gap and equip more people with skills relevant to today's work force. More than half of today's jobs require some technology skills, and the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates that will reach 77 percent in the next decade.
"Millions of Americans don't have the technology skills needed in today's economy. Through Elevate America, we want to help workers get the skills they need to succeed," Passman said. "We are also providing a full range of work force development resources for state and local governments so they can offer specialized training for their workers."
Short-Term Needs and Long-Term Investments
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, more people than ever are pursuing Microsoft technical certifications. As part of the Elevate America effort, Microsoft is providing 1 million Microsoft Learning vouchers for free access to Microsoft eLearning courses and select certification exams.* This comprehensive offering also includes the following:
-- Expanded access to basic technology literacy and skills training
-- Basic-level information technology training resources through
Microsoft Unlimited Potential and Digital Literacy curricula
-- Intermediate technology skills training courses, online and
instructor-led, plus selected certification exams
-- Vouchers for eLearning course collections offered by Microsoft
-- Vouchers for certification exams leading to Microsoft business
certification
-- Grants of cash and software to community partners to build
in-classroom training capacity
-- Discounted membership rates for institutions participating in the
Microsoft IT Academy program
-- Access to a new Web portal that will help guide individuals to training
and resources that position them for success in the economy today, and
tomorrow
More information on Elevate America is available at http://www.microsoft.com/ElevateAmerica.
Founded in 1975, Microsoft (NASDAQ:MSFT) is the worldwide leader in software, services and solutions that help people and businesses realize their full potential.
* Requires an Internet connection. Internet connection fees may apply.
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Microsoft has worked for years with other businesses and community-based partners to broaden access to job opportunities through information technology education and training. Elevate America expands these efforts and provides immediate support in response to the current economic crisis in partnership with others in the public and private sector.
Elevate America has two main offerings, one available immediately and one that will be provided in partnership with state governments including those of Florida, New York and Washington.
A new online resource, located at http://www.microsoft.com/ElevateAmerica, is available today. This new Web site helps individuals understand what types of technical skills they need for the jobs and entrepreneurial opportunities of today and tomorrow, and resources to help acquire these skills. The Web site provides access to several Microsoft online training programs, including how to use the Internet, send e-mail and create a resume, as well as more advanced programs on using specific Microsoft applications.
In order to provide a broader range of training programs and certification exams, Microsoft will also partner with state and local governments, which in turn will make these resources available to their citizens. Pamela Passman, corporate vice president of Microsoft Global Corporate Affairs, today announced that Florida, New York and Washington will be the first states to provide Elevate America to their residents. Washington Gov. Chris Gregoire says that programs such as Elevate America are critical to providing support to Washington families and helping the economy recover.
"At the federal, state and local level, leaders are working together to help start the engine of economic growth. The private sector provides much of the spark needed to jump-start that engine," Gregoire said. "Elevate America is a great example of Microsoft's leadership on education and work force development -- issues that bring us a step closer to recovery by helping us provide critically important help to our citizens. Washington state is pleased to be one of the first states to partner with Microsoft to provide Elevate America to our residents."
Florida Gov. Charlie Crist said that the success of the Elevate Miami program in his state is proof that public-private partnerships can work and benefit citizens. "We have worked with Microsoft for years in Miami to bring technology training to underserved populations," he said. "Now, with Elevate America, we have the opportunity to bring these important skills to even more people, at a time when they are needed more than ever."
Elevate America is an extension of Microsoft's long-standing commitment to provide skills training and certification through schools, government programs and community-based organizations. The Unlimited Potential Community Technology Skills Program is an example of how Microsoft is already working to bridge the technology skills gap and equip more people with skills relevant to today's work force. More than half of today's jobs require some technology skills, and the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates that will reach 77 percent in the next decade.
"Millions of Americans don't have the technology skills needed in today's economy. Through Elevate America, we want to help workers get the skills they need to succeed," Passman said. "We are also providing a full range of work force development resources for state and local governments so they can offer specialized training for their workers."
Short-Term Needs and Long-Term Investments
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, more people than ever are pursuing Microsoft technical certifications. As part of the Elevate America effort, Microsoft is providing 1 million Microsoft Learning vouchers for free access to Microsoft eLearning courses and select certification exams.* This comprehensive offering also includes the following:
-- Expanded access to basic technology literacy and skills training
-- Basic-level information technology training resources through
Microsoft Unlimited Potential and Digital Literacy curricula
-- Intermediate technology skills training courses, online and
instructor-led, plus selected certification exams
-- Vouchers for eLearning course collections offered by Microsoft
-- Vouchers for certification exams leading to Microsoft business
certification
-- Grants of cash and software to community partners to build
in-classroom training capacity
-- Discounted membership rates for institutions participating in the
Microsoft IT Academy program
-- Access to a new Web portal that will help guide individuals to training
and resources that position them for success in the economy today, and
tomorrow
More information on Elevate America is available at http://www.microsoft.com/ElevateAmerica.
Founded in 1975, Microsoft (NASDAQ:MSFT) is the worldwide leader in software, services and solutions that help people and businesses realize their full potential.
* Requires an Internet connection. Internet connection fees may apply.
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Thursday, February 19, 2009
White House Releases State by State Numbers; American Recovery and Reinvestment Act to Save or Create 106,000 Georgia Jobs
According to the White House, the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act will only create or save an estimated 106,000 jobs in Georgia over the next two years.
The White House recently released state-specific details on the local impact of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act. The American Recovery and Reinvestment Act is a nationwide effort to create jobs, jumpstart growth and transform our economy to compete in the 21st century. The compromise package of $789 billion will create or save 3.5 million jobs over the next two years. Jobs created will be in a range of industries from clean energy to health care, with over 90% in the private sector.
The estimates are derived from an analysis of the overall employment impact of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act conducted by Christina Romer, Chair of the Council of Economic Advisers, and Jared Bernstein, Chief Economist for the Vice President, and detailed estimates of the working age population, employment, and industrial composition of each state.
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The White House recently released state-specific details on the local impact of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act. The American Recovery and Reinvestment Act is a nationwide effort to create jobs, jumpstart growth and transform our economy to compete in the 21st century. The compromise package of $789 billion will create or save 3.5 million jobs over the next two years. Jobs created will be in a range of industries from clean energy to health care, with over 90% in the private sector.
The estimates are derived from an analysis of the overall employment impact of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act conducted by Christina Romer, Chair of the Council of Economic Advisers, and Jared Bernstein, Chief Economist for the Vice President, and detailed estimates of the working age population, employment, and industrial composition of each state.
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Tuesday, February 17, 2009
Southern Bioenergy Industry Could Create Thousands of Jobs
The South is in a unique position to create thousands of jobs for Southerners through the development of the bioenergy industry, a new report says. The Southern Bioenergy Roadmap, a project of the Southeast Agriculture & Forestry Energy Resources Alliance (SAFER) and the University of Florida, shows that the South has abundant natural resources and intellectual capital to produce electricity and automotive fuel from plants, trees, and waste, also known as
biomass.
The report found that, in 2007, the South:
• Contained 30 percent of the nation’s bioenergy potential in its agricultural and forestry resources;
• Produced 46 percent of the nation’s biomass generated electricity;
• Produced 22 percent of the nation’s biodiesel, but only 6.4 percent of the nation’s ethanol; and
• Hosted bioenergy research centers in every state.
SAFER presented these findings to Tennessee Governor Phil Bredesen, chairman of Southern Growth Policies Board’s Southern Technology Council, who commented that “this is a key time for the South to lead the nation in new technologies for converting biomass into energy.” Governor Bredesen also said, “The State of Tennessee has shown a commitment to helping the South become the national leader in bioenergy through its support of the Tennessee Biofuels Initiative and the BioEnergy Science Center at Oak Ridge National Laboratory.”
For the South to become the nation’s leader in the research, production, and distribution of bioenergy, the Roadmap recommends states (1) Improve the supply, demand, and regulatory environment for bioenergy in the South, (2) Invest in the development of commercial biopower and biofuel facilities in the South, and (3) Educate Southern leaders and the public on the economic and environmental benefits of bioenergy.
Liam Leightley, Chairman of SAFER and Executive Director of the Institute of Advanced Learning and Research in Danville, Virginia, said, “The Roadmap provides a starting point for building on the region’s assets and addressing the barriers to the bioenergy industry in the South.” “By wisely using our resources we can move closer to energy independence and at the same time create good jobs for our rural communities,” Leightley added.
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biomass.
The report found that, in 2007, the South:
• Contained 30 percent of the nation’s bioenergy potential in its agricultural and forestry resources;
• Produced 46 percent of the nation’s biomass generated electricity;
• Produced 22 percent of the nation’s biodiesel, but only 6.4 percent of the nation’s ethanol; and
• Hosted bioenergy research centers in every state.
SAFER presented these findings to Tennessee Governor Phil Bredesen, chairman of Southern Growth Policies Board’s Southern Technology Council, who commented that “this is a key time for the South to lead the nation in new technologies for converting biomass into energy.” Governor Bredesen also said, “The State of Tennessee has shown a commitment to helping the South become the national leader in bioenergy through its support of the Tennessee Biofuels Initiative and the BioEnergy Science Center at Oak Ridge National Laboratory.”
For the South to become the nation’s leader in the research, production, and distribution of bioenergy, the Roadmap recommends states (1) Improve the supply, demand, and regulatory environment for bioenergy in the South, (2) Invest in the development of commercial biopower and biofuel facilities in the South, and (3) Educate Southern leaders and the public on the economic and environmental benefits of bioenergy.
Liam Leightley, Chairman of SAFER and Executive Director of the Institute of Advanced Learning and Research in Danville, Virginia, said, “The Roadmap provides a starting point for building on the region’s assets and addressing the barriers to the bioenergy industry in the South.” “By wisely using our resources we can move closer to energy independence and at the same time create good jobs for our rural communities,” Leightley added.
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Friday, February 13, 2009
Georgia Southern University Hosting Regional Economic Forum
A free, public forum on how southeast Georgia can prosper despite a struggling national economy will be held on Thursday, February 19, beginning at 6 p.m. in the College of Information Technology Auditorium on the Georgia Southern University campus.
The forum titled “Growth in Tough Times: How Southeast Georgia Can and Will Thrive During the Current Economic Downturn” will take a look at the economic advantages in southeast Georgia and the positive impact they can have during this time of economic uncertainty. Anyone who would like a deeper understanding of the current economic climate and how our region is affected is encouraged to attend.
“In the current economic climate, communities are struggling to sustain economic development and growth. They need to figure out how to maintain the current jobs and attract those businesses that continue to prosper. This Regional Economic Development Forum will provide a look at how some successful communities in our region are meeting the challenge,” said Dr. Donna Fisher, an associate professor of economics at Georgia Southern University and the program coordinator for the Regional Economic Development major.
The keynote speaker will be Chris Clark, who will begin serving as the Commissioner of the Georgia Department of Natural Resources in April. “Chris Clark has extensive experience in economic development at both the local and state level. His new position with the DNR will provide a vital link between growing jobs and business and utilizing the state's natural resources to keep this growth sustainable,” said Dr. Ronald Shiffler, dean of the College of Business Administration. Clark is the current executive director of the Georgia Environmental Authority.
Following his keynote address, Clark will moderate a panel discussion. Panelists include Emcee Shantell Wilson, Savannah Economic Development Authority; Stacy Watson, Georgia Ports Authority; Peggy Chapman, CEO Statesboro/Bulloch Development Authority; Peggy Jolley, Georgia Power; and Ron Tolley, Liberty County Development Authority.
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The forum titled “Growth in Tough Times: How Southeast Georgia Can and Will Thrive During the Current Economic Downturn” will take a look at the economic advantages in southeast Georgia and the positive impact they can have during this time of economic uncertainty. Anyone who would like a deeper understanding of the current economic climate and how our region is affected is encouraged to attend.
“In the current economic climate, communities are struggling to sustain economic development and growth. They need to figure out how to maintain the current jobs and attract those businesses that continue to prosper. This Regional Economic Development Forum will provide a look at how some successful communities in our region are meeting the challenge,” said Dr. Donna Fisher, an associate professor of economics at Georgia Southern University and the program coordinator for the Regional Economic Development major.
The keynote speaker will be Chris Clark, who will begin serving as the Commissioner of the Georgia Department of Natural Resources in April. “Chris Clark has extensive experience in economic development at both the local and state level. His new position with the DNR will provide a vital link between growing jobs and business and utilizing the state's natural resources to keep this growth sustainable,” said Dr. Ronald Shiffler, dean of the College of Business Administration. Clark is the current executive director of the Georgia Environmental Authority.
Following his keynote address, Clark will moderate a panel discussion. Panelists include Emcee Shantell Wilson, Savannah Economic Development Authority; Stacy Watson, Georgia Ports Authority; Peggy Chapman, CEO Statesboro/Bulloch Development Authority; Peggy Jolley, Georgia Power; and Ron Tolley, Liberty County Development Authority.
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Monday, February 9, 2009
UGA Entrepreneurs and Innovation Summit: All-Star Panel and Presenters to Give Insight and Practical Advice on Feb. 12 in Atlanta
The Terry College of Business and University of Georgia Alumni Association will host the Entrepreneurs and Innovation Summit on Thursday, Feb. 12, at the UGA Atlanta Alumni Association Alumni Center.
The summit will run from 8:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. and feature a panel discussion, two presentations and a luncheon that will provide attendees insights into the innovation process, practical advice about raising capital, protecting intellectual property and creating a culture that promotes innovative thinking.
“In this economy entrepreneurs have such little margin for error,” said Chris Hanks, director of the Terry Entrepreneurship Program and one of the event’s panelists. “And this is an opportunity for people to spend a day getting advice and seasoned mentorship from some heavy hitters who are all-stars when it comes to innovation and entrepreneurship.
The expert panel will begin the summit with the discussion topic, “Seizing the Moment: How Entrepreneurs Can Win with Innovation.” In addition to Hanks, the panelists will include Beyond Z Interactive Media CEO Karen Lennon, the first-ever Emmy Award winner for interactive television; Alan Koenning, a corporate venture capitalist with UPS and manager of its Strategic Enterprise Fund; and the panel moderator, UGA alumnus Keith Herndon, president of Internet Decisions LLC and editor of the book Entrepreneurs and Innovation: Creating Value with Emerging Technologies.
Following the panel discussion, John R. Harris, partner of the intellectual property group at Morris, Manning and Martin LLP, will present “Protecting Intellectual Property – Insights into the Legal Process,” and UGA Eminent Scholar and entrepreneur Steven Stice will present “Creating the Future as a Scientist and Entrepreneur” as the luncheon speaker. Stice, the first scientist to successfully clone calves, is director of the UGA Regenerative Bioscience Center and chief scientific officer of Aruna Biomedical.
The UGA Entrepreneurs and Innovation Summit is free for UGA students, $20 for UGA Alumni Association members and $30 for the general public.
The Entrepreneurship Program was established by the Terry College of Business to provide an outstanding entrepreneurship curriculum, mentoring by the most seasoned entrepreneurs in the Southeast, networking opportunities, practical seminars and an array of other resources designed to inspire, teach and serve entrepreneurs and those who hope to be.
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The summit will run from 8:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. and feature a panel discussion, two presentations and a luncheon that will provide attendees insights into the innovation process, practical advice about raising capital, protecting intellectual property and creating a culture that promotes innovative thinking.
“In this economy entrepreneurs have such little margin for error,” said Chris Hanks, director of the Terry Entrepreneurship Program and one of the event’s panelists. “And this is an opportunity for people to spend a day getting advice and seasoned mentorship from some heavy hitters who are all-stars when it comes to innovation and entrepreneurship.
The expert panel will begin the summit with the discussion topic, “Seizing the Moment: How Entrepreneurs Can Win with Innovation.” In addition to Hanks, the panelists will include Beyond Z Interactive Media CEO Karen Lennon, the first-ever Emmy Award winner for interactive television; Alan Koenning, a corporate venture capitalist with UPS and manager of its Strategic Enterprise Fund; and the panel moderator, UGA alumnus Keith Herndon, president of Internet Decisions LLC and editor of the book Entrepreneurs and Innovation: Creating Value with Emerging Technologies.
Following the panel discussion, John R. Harris, partner of the intellectual property group at Morris, Manning and Martin LLP, will present “Protecting Intellectual Property – Insights into the Legal Process,” and UGA Eminent Scholar and entrepreneur Steven Stice will present “Creating the Future as a Scientist and Entrepreneur” as the luncheon speaker. Stice, the first scientist to successfully clone calves, is director of the UGA Regenerative Bioscience Center and chief scientific officer of Aruna Biomedical.
The UGA Entrepreneurs and Innovation Summit is free for UGA students, $20 for UGA Alumni Association members and $30 for the general public.
The Entrepreneurship Program was established by the Terry College of Business to provide an outstanding entrepreneurship curriculum, mentoring by the most seasoned entrepreneurs in the Southeast, networking opportunities, practical seminars and an array of other resources designed to inspire, teach and serve entrepreneurs and those who hope to be.
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Monday, February 2, 2009
Baskin-Robbins Opens Atlanta for Franchise Sales; Plans More Than 60 New Stores
/PRNewswire/ -- Baskin-Robbins, America's favorite neighborhood ice cream shop, shares its plans to rapidly expand its national footprint with today's announcement that Atlanta is now open for franchise sales. More than 60 new stores are projected over the next several years throughout Atlanta and the surrounding region. This unprecedented growth campaign is designed as part of a plan to double Baskin-Robbins' U.S. presence over time and is based on a diversified concept portfolio, expanded and comprehensive menu, and system-wide operational simplicity.
Built over the last 63 years, Baskin-Robbins currently enjoys 98% brand awareness. Most recently, Baskin-Robbins was named for the second consecutive year the number one ice cream and frozen dessert franchise, in Entrepreneur magazine's Annual "Franchise 500" ranking. This widespread recognition now makes it the opportune time to own large geographic territories in and around Atlanta and operate multi-store networks of five-to-31 or more locations with limited exclusivity.
"As the Baskin-Robbins brand continues to develop in Atlanta, we're now looking for large area developers in the Metro Atlanta area with strong financial backgrounds, a passion for their local communities and a desire to manage multiple stores," said Salman Siddiqui, vice president of franchising and development, Baskin-Robbins. "We are excited to provide large-area developers with premium territories to maximize their region's potential and set the direction of the market's growth."
Baskin-Robbins opened more than 600 stores globally in 2008, marking the highest single-year new unit openings in the company's history. With a domestic footprint of more than 2,700 locations, Baskin-Robbins currently operates four locations in and around Atlanta and 35 stores across Georgia. Baskin Robbins' Atlanta launch is part of an aggressive growth strategy which includes expanding in existing markets including California, Florida and Texas, while continuing its growth in South Carolina, North Carolina and Indiana, to name a few.
Baskin-Robbins begins 2009 with a diversified concept portfolio that includes design concepts that will provide interested large area developers with flexible real estate options. The traditional concept is an updated version of the stand-alone store featuring all of Baskin-Robbins' standard equipment and offerings. The recently launched BR Express concept is a simplified design offering a convenient and specialized solution for malls, sports arenas, airports or other real estate opportunities under 200 square feet. There is also the revolutionary "Cafe 31" model that is currently in test and operates as a high-end dessert bar with unique ice cream and coffee products.
"By continuing our history of developing new product innovations and keeping our focus on customer service for our franchisees, Baskin-Robbins is well positioned for growth in 2009 and beyond," said Siddiqui. "We share a common objective with our franchisees and large-area developers, which focuses on building the business in this increasingly challenging economy."
Furthering its commitment to its franchisees, Baskin-Robbins also offers a range of support systems including: complete training, site selection support, design, construction, marketing, and technology assistance. Baskin-Robbins has proven to be a simple business to run with convenient hours of operation, minimal equipment, little waste and a majority of inventory that has a shelf life of one year with proper storage.
"Baskin-Robbins will satisfy a growing demand in Atlanta for high-quality ice cream, specialty frozen desserts and beverages," said Siddiqui. "Over the past 63 years, Baskin-Robbins has become the brand of choice for consumers and has consistently delighted them with our irresistible flavors and treats. We look forward to being an important part of the Metro Atlanta community."
More than six decades ago, Baskin-Robbins was founded by ice cream enthusiasts Burton "Burt" Baskin and Irvine "Irv" Robbins who shared a dream to create an innovative ice cream store that would be a neighborhood gathering place for families. Today, more than 300 million people visit Baskin-Robbins each year to sample from the more than 1,000 flavors available in its ice cream library, as well as enjoy its full array of frozen treats including ice cream cakes, frozen beverages and sundaes.
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Built over the last 63 years, Baskin-Robbins currently enjoys 98% brand awareness. Most recently, Baskin-Robbins was named for the second consecutive year the number one ice cream and frozen dessert franchise, in Entrepreneur magazine's Annual "Franchise 500" ranking. This widespread recognition now makes it the opportune time to own large geographic territories in and around Atlanta and operate multi-store networks of five-to-31 or more locations with limited exclusivity.
"As the Baskin-Robbins brand continues to develop in Atlanta, we're now looking for large area developers in the Metro Atlanta area with strong financial backgrounds, a passion for their local communities and a desire to manage multiple stores," said Salman Siddiqui, vice president of franchising and development, Baskin-Robbins. "We are excited to provide large-area developers with premium territories to maximize their region's potential and set the direction of the market's growth."
Baskin-Robbins opened more than 600 stores globally in 2008, marking the highest single-year new unit openings in the company's history. With a domestic footprint of more than 2,700 locations, Baskin-Robbins currently operates four locations in and around Atlanta and 35 stores across Georgia. Baskin Robbins' Atlanta launch is part of an aggressive growth strategy which includes expanding in existing markets including California, Florida and Texas, while continuing its growth in South Carolina, North Carolina and Indiana, to name a few.
Baskin-Robbins begins 2009 with a diversified concept portfolio that includes design concepts that will provide interested large area developers with flexible real estate options. The traditional concept is an updated version of the stand-alone store featuring all of Baskin-Robbins' standard equipment and offerings. The recently launched BR Express concept is a simplified design offering a convenient and specialized solution for malls, sports arenas, airports or other real estate opportunities under 200 square feet. There is also the revolutionary "Cafe 31" model that is currently in test and operates as a high-end dessert bar with unique ice cream and coffee products.
"By continuing our history of developing new product innovations and keeping our focus on customer service for our franchisees, Baskin-Robbins is well positioned for growth in 2009 and beyond," said Siddiqui. "We share a common objective with our franchisees and large-area developers, which focuses on building the business in this increasingly challenging economy."
Furthering its commitment to its franchisees, Baskin-Robbins also offers a range of support systems including: complete training, site selection support, design, construction, marketing, and technology assistance. Baskin-Robbins has proven to be a simple business to run with convenient hours of operation, minimal equipment, little waste and a majority of inventory that has a shelf life of one year with proper storage.
"Baskin-Robbins will satisfy a growing demand in Atlanta for high-quality ice cream, specialty frozen desserts and beverages," said Siddiqui. "Over the past 63 years, Baskin-Robbins has become the brand of choice for consumers and has consistently delighted them with our irresistible flavors and treats. We look forward to being an important part of the Metro Atlanta community."
More than six decades ago, Baskin-Robbins was founded by ice cream enthusiasts Burton "Burt" Baskin and Irvine "Irv" Robbins who shared a dream to create an innovative ice cream store that would be a neighborhood gathering place for families. Today, more than 300 million people visit Baskin-Robbins each year to sample from the more than 1,000 flavors available in its ice cream library, as well as enjoy its full array of frozen treats including ice cream cakes, frozen beverages and sundaes.
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Friday, January 30, 2009
SCORE Comes to Camden County
A Score Branch has been created and will aid business owners and start-up businesses in Camden County. Counseling sessions will be held every Wednesday from 10-2 PM at St. Marys Economic Development located at 400 Osborne Street by appointment only. Please call 912-882-3583 to reserve a time. Existing businesses can benefit on advice on cash flow, marketing, and new businesses can be advised on concept feasibility.
Score is a national organization with 10,000 volunteers and works closely with the Small Business Development Center and Small Business Administration.
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Score is a national organization with 10,000 volunteers and works closely with the Small Business Development Center and Small Business Administration.
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Wednesday, January 28, 2009
Stimulus Plan Top Priority Should be Jobs
Whatever the size and scope of the economic stimulus package, "we do need to target the situation, which means jobs, and in many cases, direct job creation," says Emory economic expert Jeff Rosensweig. In an appearance on CNN, Rosensweig also said that incentives to businesses to create jobs directly and reducing payroll taxes are ideas that should be pursued.
All of these alternatives will result in a lot of debt both now and in the future, says Rosensweig, "but the sad thing is, I believe we have no choice. If the economy collapses, then no one's paying taxes and the deficit expands anyway."
Better accountability a must
Whatever the form and size of the Obama administration's financial stimulus, better accountability will be a must, says Rosensweig. Americans remain unhappy about the way the first round of bailout funds was spent. "The money was not accounted for," he says. "The future must be different." After all, he says, "It is our money."
Big Thinking Needed for Big Economic Woes
President Obama needs to keep thinking big in enacting economic stimulus, says Emory finance expert Tom Smith. "It doesn't save anybody anything by coming up $100 billion short on a stimulus plan." Smith, who teaches the practice of finance at Goizueta Business School, warns that "trying to save $100 billion on a stimulus package might be the difference between the road to recovery or six more months of recession."
Government investment in the nation's infrastructure through vetted projects that are ready now would give states latitude to direct funds to projects most likely to produce jobs, he adds. "The worst thing Obama could do is try to micromanage the situation."
In the debate over whether government spending or tax cuts is more effective in stimulating recovery, Smith says past recessions have typically included some of each. "In six of the last eight recessions there were tax cuts during or afterwards," which Smith says "are pretty useful tools, but you've got to think big. If a tax rebate is big enough you're going to get people to spend money." An effective tax cut might have to triple the 2001 rebate, "but it might be what we need."
Eliminate Payroll Taxes as Alternative to Government Spending
Emory economist Esfandiar Maasoumi believes that rather than large-scale government stimulus spending now being planned, a better alternative would be getting rid of payroll taxes. "It's a good way of borrowing without going to the markets right away," says Maasoumi. "It is a regressive tax, and eliminating it helps both employers and employees by $1,500 each immediately."
There are no collection costs, Maasoumi says, plus the measure could be enacted quickly, and would avoid the dangers of pork barrel spending and private sector fraud.
Maasoumi is no fan of government stimulus spending for a seriously indebted nation. He observes that President Obama was "mugged" by bankers and the financial industry before he even took office. "I am sorry for the president," says Maasoumi, editor of Econometric Reviews. "They [bankers] took what they could, betting their guys may not be in power to facilitate gradual taking. In my view, 'too big to fail' is the biggest fraud and extortion administered on this country."
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All of these alternatives will result in a lot of debt both now and in the future, says Rosensweig, "but the sad thing is, I believe we have no choice. If the economy collapses, then no one's paying taxes and the deficit expands anyway."
Better accountability a must
Whatever the form and size of the Obama administration's financial stimulus, better accountability will be a must, says Rosensweig. Americans remain unhappy about the way the first round of bailout funds was spent. "The money was not accounted for," he says. "The future must be different." After all, he says, "It is our money."
Big Thinking Needed for Big Economic Woes
President Obama needs to keep thinking big in enacting economic stimulus, says Emory finance expert Tom Smith. "It doesn't save anybody anything by coming up $100 billion short on a stimulus plan." Smith, who teaches the practice of finance at Goizueta Business School, warns that "trying to save $100 billion on a stimulus package might be the difference between the road to recovery or six more months of recession."
Government investment in the nation's infrastructure through vetted projects that are ready now would give states latitude to direct funds to projects most likely to produce jobs, he adds. "The worst thing Obama could do is try to micromanage the situation."
In the debate over whether government spending or tax cuts is more effective in stimulating recovery, Smith says past recessions have typically included some of each. "In six of the last eight recessions there were tax cuts during or afterwards," which Smith says "are pretty useful tools, but you've got to think big. If a tax rebate is big enough you're going to get people to spend money." An effective tax cut might have to triple the 2001 rebate, "but it might be what we need."
Eliminate Payroll Taxes as Alternative to Government Spending
Emory economist Esfandiar Maasoumi believes that rather than large-scale government stimulus spending now being planned, a better alternative would be getting rid of payroll taxes. "It's a good way of borrowing without going to the markets right away," says Maasoumi. "It is a regressive tax, and eliminating it helps both employers and employees by $1,500 each immediately."
There are no collection costs, Maasoumi says, plus the measure could be enacted quickly, and would avoid the dangers of pork barrel spending and private sector fraud.
Maasoumi is no fan of government stimulus spending for a seriously indebted nation. He observes that President Obama was "mugged" by bankers and the financial industry before he even took office. "I am sorry for the president," says Maasoumi, editor of Econometric Reviews. "They [bankers] took what they could, betting their guys may not be in power to facilitate gradual taking. In my view, 'too big to fail' is the biggest fraud and extortion administered on this country."
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Friday, January 23, 2009
Georgia Southern University and Statesboro Regional Library Host Seminar On How To Start A Business
Many people dream of starting their own business but are now sure how to begin. Future entrepreneurs can learn some of the basics of starting a business in a free class hosted by Georgia Southern University’s Small Business Development Center and the Statesboro Regional Library.
“Starting A Business” will be held January 27, 2009 from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. at the Statesboro Regional Library’s Community Room. The library is located at 124 South Main Street in Statesboro. Thanks to scholarships being provided by the Wachovia Foundation, this class is being offered at no charge to the public. To sign up for this free seminar, contact Nancy Elrod at 912-478-7232.
The SBDC program is funded in part by the University of Georgia and the U.S. Small Business Administration. SBA’s funding is not an endorsement of any products, opinions or services. All SBA funded programs are extended to the public on a nondiscriminatory basis. Reasonable arrangements for persons with disabilities will be made, if requested in advance, by calling the Statesboro SBDC at 912-478-7232.
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“Starting A Business” will be held January 27, 2009 from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. at the Statesboro Regional Library’s Community Room. The library is located at 124 South Main Street in Statesboro. Thanks to scholarships being provided by the Wachovia Foundation, this class is being offered at no charge to the public. To sign up for this free seminar, contact Nancy Elrod at 912-478-7232.
The SBDC program is funded in part by the University of Georgia and the U.S. Small Business Administration. SBA’s funding is not an endorsement of any products, opinions or services. All SBA funded programs are extended to the public on a nondiscriminatory basis. Reasonable arrangements for persons with disabilities will be made, if requested in advance, by calling the Statesboro SBDC at 912-478-7232.
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Friday, January 16, 2009
U.S. Department of Labor awards nearly $123 million in 4th round of President's Community-Based Job Training Grants
Atlanta Technical College Atlanta Ga. Transportation $2,000,000
Lanier Technical College Oakwood Ga. Energy $794,480
Moultrie Technical College Colquitt Ga. Advanced $1,756,677
manufacturing
Technical College System of Georgia Atlanta Ga. Construction $1,503,463
/PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- The U.S. Department of Labor today awarded nearly $123 million to 68 community colleges and community-based institutions that competed successfully under the President's Community-Based Job Training Grants Initiative. Awardees were chosen from among 274 applications received in response to a competition announced Oct. 10, 2008.
"The $123 million awarded today will expand enrollment in education and training programs, and provide more workers with the skills they need to succeed," said Secretary of Labor Elaine L. Chao.
Introduced by President Bush in his 2004 "State of the Union" address, Community-Based Job Training Grants improve the ability of community colleges to provide their regions' workers with the skills needed to enter growing industries. The first round of 70 competitive awards was revealed on Oct. 19, 2005. The second round of 72 awards was made on Dec. 11, 2006. Sixty-nine awards from among third round competitors were announced on March 11, 2008.
In slightly more than three years, approximately $497 million now has been awarded to 279 community colleges and community-based institutions in 49 states to promote the U.S. workforce's full potential. Through the first three rounds of these grants, more than 34,000 individuals have completed their education and training, and nearly 85,000 people have participated.
The 68 grants awarded today will support projects in 36 states: Arizona, Arkansas, California, Connecticut, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Idaho, Illinois, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Mississippi, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, Ohio, Oklahoma, Oregon, South Carolina, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, Virginia, Washington, Wisconsin and Wyoming.
For more information on the Department of Labor's employment and training programs and the President's Community-Based Job Training Grants, visit http://www.doleta.gov/business/Community-BasedJobTrainingGrants.cfm.
U.S. Department of Labor releases are accessible on the Internet at www.dol.gov. The information in this news release will be made available in alternate format (large print, Braille, audio tape or disc) from the COAST office upon request. Please specify which news release when placing your request at 202-693-7828 or TTY 202-693-7755. The Labor Department is committed to providing America's employers and employees with easy access to understandable information on how to comply with its laws and regulations. For more information, please visit www.dol.gov/compliance.
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Lanier Technical College Oakwood Ga. Energy $794,480
Moultrie Technical College Colquitt Ga. Advanced $1,756,677
manufacturing
Technical College System of Georgia Atlanta Ga. Construction $1,503,463
/PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- The U.S. Department of Labor today awarded nearly $123 million to 68 community colleges and community-based institutions that competed successfully under the President's Community-Based Job Training Grants Initiative. Awardees were chosen from among 274 applications received in response to a competition announced Oct. 10, 2008.
"The $123 million awarded today will expand enrollment in education and training programs, and provide more workers with the skills they need to succeed," said Secretary of Labor Elaine L. Chao.
Introduced by President Bush in his 2004 "State of the Union" address, Community-Based Job Training Grants improve the ability of community colleges to provide their regions' workers with the skills needed to enter growing industries. The first round of 70 competitive awards was revealed on Oct. 19, 2005. The second round of 72 awards was made on Dec. 11, 2006. Sixty-nine awards from among third round competitors were announced on March 11, 2008.
In slightly more than three years, approximately $497 million now has been awarded to 279 community colleges and community-based institutions in 49 states to promote the U.S. workforce's full potential. Through the first three rounds of these grants, more than 34,000 individuals have completed their education and training, and nearly 85,000 people have participated.
The 68 grants awarded today will support projects in 36 states: Arizona, Arkansas, California, Connecticut, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Idaho, Illinois, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Mississippi, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, Ohio, Oklahoma, Oregon, South Carolina, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, Virginia, Washington, Wisconsin and Wyoming.
For more information on the Department of Labor's employment and training programs and the President's Community-Based Job Training Grants, visit http://www.doleta.gov/business/Community-BasedJobTrainingGrants.cfm.
U.S. Department of Labor releases are accessible on the Internet at www.dol.gov. The information in this news release will be made available in alternate format (large print, Braille, audio tape or disc) from the COAST office upon request. Please specify which news release when placing your request at 202-693-7828 or TTY 202-693-7755. The Labor Department is committed to providing America's employers and employees with easy access to understandable information on how to comply with its laws and regulations. For more information, please visit www.dol.gov/compliance.
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Thursday, January 15, 2009
Ryla Creates Domestic Jobs - Again
(BUSINESS WIRE)--Ryla, a leading provider of outsourced call center and customer contact solutions, announced a hiring push in November that would expand its employment figures by more than 1,000. Ryla today announces its SECOND HIRING PUSH within 60 days as it must bring more than 500 additional employees on staff before the end of the month.
Tomorrow (Thursday, January 15) Ryla is participating in the CareerBuilder Career Fair taking place at the Cobb Galleria Centre from 10 am until 3 pm. With more than 500 ACTUAL JOBS that must be filled, Ryla representatives will, no doubt, be in high demand on the job fair floor.
To clarify: This group of no less than 500 hires is NOT part of the company’s November hiring push. These are NEW employment opportunities that represent full-time, permanent, benefited positions at Ryla’s Kennesaw headquarters. The management-to-agent ratio for this group of hires is 12-to-1, meaning that more than 40 of these new jobs are management level positions. Ryla’s team will be aggressively seeking eager employees at customer service and management levels.
As one of the areas few companies that is rapidly expanding and hiring on a consistent basis, this is a tremendous opportunity to interview a Ryla representative and capture excellent footage of the anticipated thousands of job seekers.
The Cobb Galleria Centre is located at Two Galleria Parkway, Atlanta, Georgia 30339. Job applicants should bring their resume, two valid forms of photo identification, and be prepared for on-the-spot preliminary interviews. Interested parties can view a brief video of current Ryla employee comments by clicking here or by visiting Life@Ryla, on the company’s website.
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Tomorrow (Thursday, January 15) Ryla is participating in the CareerBuilder Career Fair taking place at the Cobb Galleria Centre from 10 am until 3 pm. With more than 500 ACTUAL JOBS that must be filled, Ryla representatives will, no doubt, be in high demand on the job fair floor.
To clarify: This group of no less than 500 hires is NOT part of the company’s November hiring push. These are NEW employment opportunities that represent full-time, permanent, benefited positions at Ryla’s Kennesaw headquarters. The management-to-agent ratio for this group of hires is 12-to-1, meaning that more than 40 of these new jobs are management level positions. Ryla’s team will be aggressively seeking eager employees at customer service and management levels.
As one of the areas few companies that is rapidly expanding and hiring on a consistent basis, this is a tremendous opportunity to interview a Ryla representative and capture excellent footage of the anticipated thousands of job seekers.
The Cobb Galleria Centre is located at Two Galleria Parkway, Atlanta, Georgia 30339. Job applicants should bring their resume, two valid forms of photo identification, and be prepared for on-the-spot preliminary interviews. Interested parties can view a brief video of current Ryla employee comments by clicking here or by visiting Life@Ryla, on the company’s website.
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Tuesday, January 6, 2009
Mathematician Rated Nation's Best Job in New CareerCast.com Jobs Rated 2009 Report
/PRNewswire/ -- "I'm a Lumberjack and I'm OK" is a tune made famous by the Monty Python comedy troupe. In 2009, lumberjacks are far from OK. Mathematicians, on the other hand, couldn't be happier. These are among the nation's best and worst jobs compiled in the new "2009 Jobs Rated Report," an in-depth look at 200 jobs by CareerCast.com.
The editors at CareerCast.com, the nation's newest job portal, wanted to answer two key questions in this economic downturn: What are the best jobs out there, and what are the worst? Not in terms of glamour, or just in terms of salary, but in terms of things like job security, emotional stress, hiring outlook and basic physical safety.
When you're working in a job that you don't particularly enjoy - or if you've recently lost your job after many years - it's easy to imagine that the grass may be greener for people in other careers. But unless you pepper those people with questions, it's hard to find out what their work is really like. How stressful is their job, what's the work environment like and is there room for growth?
The criteria used by CareerCast.com researchers to determine the most--and least--appealing career opportunities include environment, income, employment outlook, physical demands, security and stress. Each occupation is ranked using data from such sources as the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics and the U.S. Census Bureau, as well as information provided by a wide range of trade associations and industry groups. The upshot: secure, well-paying office jobs, like mathematician, landed high. Physically demanding, high-risk jobs like lumberjack brought up the rear.
Based on these factors, here are the nation's 10 best and worst jobs. To see the full rankings of all 200 jobs, go to www.CareerCast.com or www.JobsRated.com.
BEST
1) MATHEMATICIAN
2) ACTUARY
3) STATISTICIAN
4) BIOLOGIST
5) SOFTWARE ENGINEER
6) COMPUTER SYSTEMS ANALYST
7) HISTORIAN
8) SOCIOLOGIST
9) INDUSTRIAL DESIGNER
10) ACCOUNTANT
WORST
1) LUMBERJACK
2) DAIRY FARMER
3) TAXI DRIVER
4) SEAMAN
5) EMERGENCY MEDICAL TECHNICIAN
6) ROOFER
7) GARBAGE COLLECTOR
8) WELDER
9) ROUSTABOUT
10) IRONWORKER
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The editors at CareerCast.com, the nation's newest job portal, wanted to answer two key questions in this economic downturn: What are the best jobs out there, and what are the worst? Not in terms of glamour, or just in terms of salary, but in terms of things like job security, emotional stress, hiring outlook and basic physical safety.
When you're working in a job that you don't particularly enjoy - or if you've recently lost your job after many years - it's easy to imagine that the grass may be greener for people in other careers. But unless you pepper those people with questions, it's hard to find out what their work is really like. How stressful is their job, what's the work environment like and is there room for growth?
The criteria used by CareerCast.com researchers to determine the most--and least--appealing career opportunities include environment, income, employment outlook, physical demands, security and stress. Each occupation is ranked using data from such sources as the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics and the U.S. Census Bureau, as well as information provided by a wide range of trade associations and industry groups. The upshot: secure, well-paying office jobs, like mathematician, landed high. Physically demanding, high-risk jobs like lumberjack brought up the rear.
Based on these factors, here are the nation's 10 best and worst jobs. To see the full rankings of all 200 jobs, go to www.CareerCast.com or www.JobsRated.com.
BEST
1) MATHEMATICIAN
2) ACTUARY
3) STATISTICIAN
4) BIOLOGIST
5) SOFTWARE ENGINEER
6) COMPUTER SYSTEMS ANALYST
7) HISTORIAN
8) SOCIOLOGIST
9) INDUSTRIAL DESIGNER
10) ACCOUNTANT
WORST
1) LUMBERJACK
2) DAIRY FARMER
3) TAXI DRIVER
4) SEAMAN
5) EMERGENCY MEDICAL TECHNICIAN
6) ROOFER
7) GARBAGE COLLECTOR
8) WELDER
9) ROUSTABOUT
10) IRONWORKER
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Monday, January 5, 2009
WANTED BY THE FBI: Talented Professionals to Serve the Nation
Attention job seekers: the FBI is looking for a few good men and women to fill a variety of mission-critical roles within our organization.
Well actually, we’re looking for a few thousand—just over 2,100 professional staff employees and 850 special agents, to be precise—in one of the largest hiring blitzes in our 100-year history.
The reason behind our mega hiring initiative? According to Assistant Director John Raucci of our Human Resources Division, it’s to bring more people on board with skills in critical areas, especially language fluency and computer science. “But,” explains Raucci, “we’re also looking for professionals in a wide variety of fields who have a deep desire to help protect our nation from terrorists, spies, and others who wish us harm.”
All 2,100-plus jobs are now posted on our redesigned FBI Jobs website. The positions are located throughout the nation—in virtually every FBI field office and at our Headquarters in Washington, D.C. You must be a U.S. citizen to apply.
Who we are looking for. According to Raucci, besides those skilled in computers and foreign languages we also need experts in:
* Finance and accounting;
* Security;
* Intelligence analysis;
* Compliance and quality assurance;
* Training and education;
* Records management;
* Fingerprint examination;
* Information technology;
* Nursing and counseling;
* Physical surveillance;
* Electrical engineering;
* Physical/natural/social sciences;
* Administrative/clerical processes;
* Automotive mechanics; and
* Management/program analysis.
The process. On the FBI Jobs website, take a look at available positions. If you see a job you think you’re qualified for, read our “How to Apply” page and then fill out the online application.
FBI employees in front of computers
Applications will be vetted, and best qualified candidates will be contacted for interviews. We will arrange regional “mega career invitationals” to speed up that process—all selected candidates will gather at designated locations to be interviewed. Those who are ultimately offered a conditional job will be scheduled for their polygraphs, drug screenings, and employment briefings. Candidates who make it past that stage are then ready for the final step—their background investigations.
Our pre-employment background investigations are, by necessity, very thorough and take some time, but we hope to have everyone hired and onboard by September 30, 2009. A hiring initiative of this magnitude requires a massive in-house response to quickly process the deluge of applications we expect to receive, so we’re reallocating personnel who will be dedicated exclusively to this initiative.
If you aren’t offered the specific job you have applied for but still meet the hiring criteria, your application will be kept on hand for possible consideration at a later time.
Interested in becoming a special agent? We also continue to recruit and process agent candidates. Since October 1, we have hired nearly 180 agents and plan to hire a total of 850 by the end of the fiscal year.
Like our professional staff applicants, we’re looking for agent candidates with foreign language fluency (especially in Middle Eastern and Asian dialects) and computer science backgrounds, and also those with skills in certified public accounting or tactics training. And we also need agent candidates with expertise in intelligence, law enforcement/military, engineering, law, and science. Read our Become a Special Agent webpage for more information.
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Well actually, we’re looking for a few thousand—just over 2,100 professional staff employees and 850 special agents, to be precise—in one of the largest hiring blitzes in our 100-year history.
The reason behind our mega hiring initiative? According to Assistant Director John Raucci of our Human Resources Division, it’s to bring more people on board with skills in critical areas, especially language fluency and computer science. “But,” explains Raucci, “we’re also looking for professionals in a wide variety of fields who have a deep desire to help protect our nation from terrorists, spies, and others who wish us harm.”
All 2,100-plus jobs are now posted on our redesigned FBI Jobs website. The positions are located throughout the nation—in virtually every FBI field office and at our Headquarters in Washington, D.C. You must be a U.S. citizen to apply.
Who we are looking for. According to Raucci, besides those skilled in computers and foreign languages we also need experts in:
* Finance and accounting;
* Security;
* Intelligence analysis;
* Compliance and quality assurance;
* Training and education;
* Records management;
* Fingerprint examination;
* Information technology;
* Nursing and counseling;
* Physical surveillance;
* Electrical engineering;
* Physical/natural/social sciences;
* Administrative/clerical processes;
* Automotive mechanics; and
* Management/program analysis.
The process. On the FBI Jobs website, take a look at available positions. If you see a job you think you’re qualified for, read our “How to Apply” page and then fill out the online application.
FBI employees in front of computers
Applications will be vetted, and best qualified candidates will be contacted for interviews. We will arrange regional “mega career invitationals” to speed up that process—all selected candidates will gather at designated locations to be interviewed. Those who are ultimately offered a conditional job will be scheduled for their polygraphs, drug screenings, and employment briefings. Candidates who make it past that stage are then ready for the final step—their background investigations.
Our pre-employment background investigations are, by necessity, very thorough and take some time, but we hope to have everyone hired and onboard by September 30, 2009. A hiring initiative of this magnitude requires a massive in-house response to quickly process the deluge of applications we expect to receive, so we’re reallocating personnel who will be dedicated exclusively to this initiative.
If you aren’t offered the specific job you have applied for but still meet the hiring criteria, your application will be kept on hand for possible consideration at a later time.
Interested in becoming a special agent? We also continue to recruit and process agent candidates. Since October 1, we have hired nearly 180 agents and plan to hire a total of 850 by the end of the fiscal year.
Like our professional staff applicants, we’re looking for agent candidates with foreign language fluency (especially in Middle Eastern and Asian dialects) and computer science backgrounds, and also those with skills in certified public accounting or tactics training. And we also need agent candidates with expertise in intelligence, law enforcement/military, engineering, law, and science. Read our Become a Special Agent webpage for more information.
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Saturday, January 3, 2009
IT Pros Discouraged by Dismal Job-Hunting Results Should Find Much Brighter Employment Prospects in Alternative Fields
/PRNewswire/ -- The recession is heightening competition for a dwindling number of IT jobs, while exerting downward pressure on compensation. Many IT professionals -- both employed and unemployed -- are considering changing careers, but are naturally concerned about wasting their investment in their education and experience. That concern should be dispelled by Debugging Your Information Technology(TM) Career (Elegant Fix Press - http://www.elegantfixpress.com/), which features 20 alternative fields where computer professionals' technical knowledge will be advantageous. An added bonus: Most of these fields offer strong protection from both offshoring and recessions.
Janice Weinberg (http://www.janiceweinberg.com/), the author, is a career consultant formerly with IBM and GE, whose IT background enabled her to identify the 20 careers she describes. While most of them aren't usually thought of as computer jobs, computer proficiency is a key qualification for success in each. For example:
-- An architect's knowledge of best practices in systems design would be
a strong asset in a technology due diligence position.
-- A business analyst who guided logistics staff in defining their IT
requirements would be a credible candidate for a strategic alliance
management position at a company marketing logistics software.
-- A NOC manager who upgraded a change-management function would bring a
valuable customer's perspective to a role as a change-management
software product manager.
-- A network security administrator could become a broker or underwriter
of cyberliability insurance.
-- A software engineer who supported CRM applications could parlay that
experience into a position selling CRM software.
-- Any IT professional who can assess the commercial potential of new
computer technology could qualify for a position as an equity analyst
covering the computer industry.
Most of the careers can be entered without further education beyond a BS in a computer-related discipline. Several -- for example, business continuity planner -- require a certification. Some readers may be motivated to become technology attorneys, forensic accountants or healthcare administrators. Many of the fields can be springboards for new consulting practices.
As Weinberg describes each career, readers will:
-- Realize why computer expertise is an advantage in delivering top
performance;
-- Be able to imagine themselves in the field by reading the hour-by-hour
Typical Workday;
-- Understand how a recession could undermine job security, while
learning career-planning strategies for minimizing or avoiding any
negative impact.
Readers will learn job-hunting techniques tailored to specific fields, including guidance in identifying and approaching employers, and in selecting those aspects of their experience to highlight in their resumes and interviews for greatest impact. Although most of the fields are highly insulated from offshoring, where vulnerability exists, Weinberg suggests job-hunting techniques to minimize one's exposure.
While there are many books providing IT career advice, Weinberg's gives new - and much broader - meaning to the term "computer job," demonstrating that an IT professional's knowledge constitutes precious currency in a world dependent on computer technology.
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Janice Weinberg (http://www.janiceweinberg.com/), the author, is a career consultant formerly with IBM and GE, whose IT background enabled her to identify the 20 careers she describes. While most of them aren't usually thought of as computer jobs, computer proficiency is a key qualification for success in each. For example:
-- An architect's knowledge of best practices in systems design would be
a strong asset in a technology due diligence position.
-- A business analyst who guided logistics staff in defining their IT
requirements would be a credible candidate for a strategic alliance
management position at a company marketing logistics software.
-- A NOC manager who upgraded a change-management function would bring a
valuable customer's perspective to a role as a change-management
software product manager.
-- A network security administrator could become a broker or underwriter
of cyberliability insurance.
-- A software engineer who supported CRM applications could parlay that
experience into a position selling CRM software.
-- Any IT professional who can assess the commercial potential of new
computer technology could qualify for a position as an equity analyst
covering the computer industry.
Most of the careers can be entered without further education beyond a BS in a computer-related discipline. Several -- for example, business continuity planner -- require a certification. Some readers may be motivated to become technology attorneys, forensic accountants or healthcare administrators. Many of the fields can be springboards for new consulting practices.
As Weinberg describes each career, readers will:
-- Realize why computer expertise is an advantage in delivering top
performance;
-- Be able to imagine themselves in the field by reading the hour-by-hour
Typical Workday;
-- Understand how a recession could undermine job security, while
learning career-planning strategies for minimizing or avoiding any
negative impact.
Readers will learn job-hunting techniques tailored to specific fields, including guidance in identifying and approaching employers, and in selecting those aspects of their experience to highlight in their resumes and interviews for greatest impact. Although most of the fields are highly insulated from offshoring, where vulnerability exists, Weinberg suggests job-hunting techniques to minimize one's exposure.
While there are many books providing IT career advice, Weinberg's gives new - and much broader - meaning to the term "computer job," demonstrating that an IT professional's knowledge constitutes precious currency in a world dependent on computer technology.
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