Tulsa Area Teens Get Ready For The 'Workforce'

By Jeffrey Smith, The News on 6

TULSA, OK -- With summer break right around the corner, some Tulsa teens are thinking about their future.

Hundreds of teens are applying for a Workforce Oklahoma program that will put money in their pockets for pursuing their dream jobs. But the competition is intense.

"I think it's important because I plan on going to college, and I plan on graduating," said Davonte Penny, a high school sophomore.

They're applying for the iJobs Program, sponsored by Workforce Oklahoma. The program targets low-income families, and pairs up teens with local businesses based on their dream careers.

Breana Brown is hoping to get hands-on experience so she can one day be a nurse.

"A learning experience, so that when I do get in the real world, I'll know what to do, and know what to expect," said Breana Brown, a high school junior.

Workforce Oklahoma says more than 1,000 high school students will apply, but only 300 will be accepted.

"It's a great resume builder, and when you go to fill out a college application or an application with an employer, to be able to show that you've been successful on a work site is extremely important to set yourself apart from your peers," said David Daugherty, with Workforce Oklahoma.

The iJobs Program is even bigger than last year, thanks to additional funding from DHS. The employers provide the supervisors, but Workforce Oklahoma pays the wages.

Davonte Penny, 16, says it's a great opportunity.

"It makes me feel like a mature adult," said Penny. "Because I think this'll help me learn responsibility and how to be independent on my own."

The students who get in will have two weeks of summer classroom training, followed by six weeks of paid work experience.

Applicants must attend an enrollment workshop before May 2nd, and be a resident of Tulsa, Creek, Osage or Pawnee Counties.

Workshops will be held at Green Country Event Center, 12000 East 31st Street in Tulsa. The workshops will be held April 18, 24, 25 and May 1, 2. To participate in an enrollment workshop, youth should plan to arrive at the Event Center between 9 and 2 p.m. on one of the days listed.

For more information on the iJobs Program, contact Workforce Oklahoma at 796-1226. Inc.