Learning how to stay safe on the job is part of every Climb program and gives participants an edge with employers. Recent examples include First Aid/CPR and OSHA certifications in Cheyenne’s Pipefitting program, back care for Casper Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) participants learning to lift patients, and even ergonomics classes with Laramie physical therapists to help moms working in office careers.

The Sweetwater Area has added a special two-week safety program through Western Wyoming Community College to its spring Commercial Driving (CDL) training. Components will include prevention of on-the-job injury and illness, forklift operation, crane safety and hand signals, and First Aid/CPR. For the training, participants will be equipped with steel-toed boots, customized gloves, hard hats, and safety glasses.

When you haven’t experienced a professional work environment before, it can be hard to know some of the “hidden rules.” The Teton Area’s latest Office Careers training led a special “Professionalism 101” workshop with tips like “dress like your boss’s boss if you’re not sure what to wear,” advice on appropriate cell phone and social media use at work, and “dos and don’ts” at social gatherings with coworkers.

CNAs are in short supply in Casper—one of Wyoming’s major medical hubs—and the demand is growing, along with the population of aging adults in Wyoming and nationwide. Climb graduates in Casper are stepping in to fill these critical positions with care, skill, and compassion to help sick and elderly people with the tasks of daily living.