Workforce
The Urban League’s Urban Pathways Initiative is a FREE career training program that prepares students and adults for high-demand, high-wage employment opportunities.
Locations
- This is a hybrid training program. Some sessions will be held in person at the Urban League Technology Center, 145 Deweese Street, Lexington, KY 40507.
- Other sessions will be virtual or at pre-determined locations.
Schedule an appointment today! Call 859-233-1561 ext 208 or email James@ullexfay.org.
James McFarland
Workforce Development Coordinator
859-233-1561 ext 208
James@ullexfay.org
Services Include:
Self-Awareness
4 hours: career assessment, barrier removal, cultural sensitivity, unconscious bias training
Soft Skills
12 hours: resume writing, communication, interview skills, teamwork, leadership, problem-solving, time management, goal setting, professionalism, responsibility, etc
Ready for Industry Certification
15-20 hours: introduction into one of five high-demand, high-yield industries (Construction, Healthcare, Information Technology, Logistics, or Manufacturing)
Career Exploration
4 hours: career tours and interaction, professional mentor engagement
Success Strategies
6 hours: financial literacy, budgeting, emergency funds, goal setting, etc.
Workforce Wednesday Webinars
Workforce Wednesday Webinars (WWW) are a professional development series that helps diverse jobseekers develop new skill sets that will enhance their careers and influence their personal and professional lives. Through digital platforms such as webinars,YouTube, and Facebook, WWW provides an opportunity for remote professional development during the lunch hour.
SUCCESS STORY: William D. Brown
Program: “Ready to Get Back in the Workforce” – Stephon Way Out & Urban League
Overview
William D. Brown successfully completed the Ready to Get Back in the Workforce program, a partnership between the Urban League and STEPHON Way Out. This workforce development initiative supports individuals seeking to reenter the workforce by providing skills training, mentorship, and career development opportunities.
Program Services Provided
- Mindset Coaching and Personal Development using the STEPHON framework:
Success over Stress, Truth, Excellence, Proud, Honorable, One Day at a Time, No Backseat - Job Readiness Training, including soft skills and workplace professionalism
- Career Pathway Exploration
- 90 Days of Job Shadowing and On-the-Job Training
- Ready for Industry Certification Programs
- Supportive Services, including transportation assistance and community-based mentorship
Outcomes Achieved
- Earned his Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) and Bus Endorsement, with training support and referrals from the program and Community Action
- Gained full-time employment at Lextran as a professional bus operator
- Promoted to Trainer in the CDL program at Community Action
- Provides daily transportation for students attending BCTC Head Start, supporting early childhood education access
- Serves as the Events and Activities Coordinator for the Stephon Way Out program, actively giving back and mentoring others
Impact
Through a combination of determination and the resources provided by the program, Mr. Brown developed new skills, built professional confidence, and secured meaningful employment. He is now a leader in his field and a valued contributor to his community.
Mr. Brown’s journey reflects the impact of high-quality workforce programming—transforming lives through opportunity, guidance, and support.
Congratulations, William D. Brown!
You’ve worked hard, stayed focused, and continue to inspire others on their path to success.
