WIA eyes electronic network to connect employment sector By MARIAN A. MARAYA

Workforce Investment Agency Executive Director Felix Nogis is not ruling out the possibility of interconnecting local employment and training-oriented services agencies through an electronically-accessible CNMI-wide network eyed to enhance the employment process.

Mr. Nogis said WIA still has to look into the costs of setting up the technology envisioned to streamline communication and coordination efforts between employment and training service providers.

“I don’t how much it would cost to link up all the systems together but it’s something worth looking into,” said Mr. Nogis.

Meanwhile, the CNMI’s lead employment services agency intends to continue using the traditional means of inter-agency communication and referrals through facsimiles and telephone calls.

“I think we really should do it electronically. To my knowledge, I see no reason not to carry out this objective if we are really committed and willing to overhaul the system,” Mr. Nogis said.

With the aid of advanced and up-to-date technology, WIA would be able to perform well in responding to the needs of its consumers, added the executive director.

One of WIA’s mandate is to coordinate local service providers on employment referrals and job placements for local job-seekers.

Aside from WIA (formerly Job Training Partnership Act), consumers can now turn to other agencies such as the Office of Vocational Rehabilitation, the Public School System, the Northern Marianas College and the private sector for employment and training services, according to Mr. Nogis.

Northern Marianas College Adult Basic Education Director Fe Y. Calixterio, a member of the WIA board, has expressed willingness to cooperate with the lead agency on the undertaking.

“Despite the absence of a physical facility such as the one-step center, I am glad that we can still develop partnerships. I am looking forward to it and very much willing to cooperate anytime because I know it is a must that we assist people who need jobs,” said Ms. Calixterio.

The lead agency has disclosed plans to implement a uniform application and assessment system programmed to save time and provide convenience to clients, according to Mr. Nogis, also an member of the board.

“This is all in line with enhancing the services to be more effective and responsive to the needs of the people,” he added.