Empowering Women in the Workforce
CWDB is proud to spotlight projects that expand women’s opportunities to secure good-paying jobs. CWDB supports grantees in creating job quality, equity, and career advancement for disadvantaged workers, including women.
Participants receive training and wrap-around supportive services to improve access to quality employment opportunities that can lead to long-term careers.
By prioritizing the recruitment of women, CWDB grantees foster greater workforce diversity and address regional disparities. Check out the individual stories below to see how CWDB has helped female participants achieve their employment goals.
Julie Rubin
Graduate, Columbia College’s Certified Medical Assistant Training Program
Prior to Columbia College’s Certified Medical Assistant Training Program, Julie Rubin was working at a restaurant where she struggled with insufficient hours to support herself. While she enjoyed the service aspect of her job, the unpredictable schedule and inadequate income created ongoing instability in her life. The situation ultimately deteriorated when her lack of hours resulted in her being laid off.
Despite these challenges, Julie maintained her desire to make a meaningful difference in people’s lives. She began exploring opportunities that would allow her to enhance her skills while pursuing more fulfilling work. As she was considering her options, she came across a flyer advertising the Certified Medical Assistant Program. The timing couldn’t have been more perfect—it was exactly the right opportunity at precisely the right moment in her life.
Julie wanted to enhance her career prospects and earning potential by returning to the medical field. She hoped to renew her phlebotomy license already in her background, while also pursuing a Medical Assistant certification.
Her goal was to serve her community in a more meaningful capacity, combining these complementary skills to make a difference in people’s lives.
Julie’s successful participation in the training offered by Regional Equity and Recovery Partnership grantee Mother Lode Job Training (MLJT) was made possible through several key support elements. MLJT’s support services budget provided her with a wristwatch, which is essential for taking vital signs and timing procedures in medical settings. Additionally, the college covered the costs of her uniform and textbooks, eliminating significant financial barriers to her training.
In addition to material support services, Julie was able to turn to her MLJT case manager whenever she had questions or needed career guidance. This personalized support system helped her overcome challenges and make informed decisions about her professional development. Her classmates also played an important role by creating a collaborative study environment where they supported one another throughout the coursework. All supportive services were provided at no cost to Julie, making the training truly accessible.
Beyond the program’s core curriculum, Julie was also able to acquire additional technical skills that will substantially improve her employability. Now that she has graduated, she feels a renewed sense of purpose as she seeks employment as a Medical Assistant with support from her case manager.