News Release
US Department of Labor announces first Johnson & Johnson Vision training program graduates at Jacksonville Job Corps Center
JACKSONVILLE, FL – In early November, the U.S. Department of Labor’s Jacksonville Job Corps Center signed a memorandum of understanding with Johnson & Johnson Vision to make its advanced manufacturing production technology training program available to Job Corps students.
On Dec. 17, the joint agreement moved three of the Florida center’s students one step closer to beginning their careers in robotics as the program produced its first class of graduates.
“Working together with Johnson & Johnson Vision, the Jacksonville Job Corps Center has graduated its first group of students and established a path toward good-paying jobs for these students and others who follow,” said Job Corps National Director Rachel Torres. “This graduation is also an example of how Job Corps’ ability to modify training programs to suit an employer’s specific needs which, in turn, creates more opportunities for our students and supports the economic growth of our partners.”
Students received training as manufacturing technicians using robotics for products including contact lenses made by Johnson & Johnson Vision, based in Jacksonville. As part of its program, Johnson & Johnson Vision retains oversight and provides input in development of the program’s curriculum.
The training combines e-learning and tracking materials, and supported hands-on instruction with equipment from Johnson & Johnson Vision. Graduates will have opportunities to compete for positions there and at other manufacturing companies. Job Corps provides job placement services for up to six months after separating from Job Corps and 12 months of career transition support after placement. Positions are expected to start at $23.00 per hour, plus benefits.
Founded in 1964, Job Corps is the nation’s largest job training and education program. It provides students from 16 to 24 years of age with vocational training and academic experiences to increase opportunities towards gainful employment and career pathways. Mostly a residential program in urban and rural areas, Job Corps centers include dormitories and a campus environment similar to small colleges. Job Corps provide programs and services to students free of charge.
Administered by the department’s Employment and Training Administration, Job Corps is the nation’s largest residential career-training program. There are currently 121 Job Corps centers in all 50 states, the District of Columbia and Puerto Rico.
