Join us as we talk with Cris Ritchie about the exciting new Teleworks Academy from the Eastern Kentucky Concentrated Employment Program (EKCEP). Learn how this enhanced program is creating personalized pathways to high-demand remote work opportunities, empowering Eastern Kentuckians to build stable, rewarding careers without having to leave home.The Teleworks Academy is an enhanced, free program by EKCEP, designed to equip Eastern Kentuckians with the skills, confidence, and connections needed to land and succeed in legitimate, long-term remote (work-from-home) careers.Core Mission: Its mission is to prepare, advance, and expand the workforce of Eastern Kentucky by making the global job market accessible from local homes. It focuses on turning job seekers into job ready candidates for high-demand remote roles.Biggest Benefit: The ability to secure a sustainable, higher-wage job while staying right here at home.Life-Changing Impact (ROI):Eliminates the Need to Move: Job seekers can access the global economy and better careers without the emotional and financial cost of relocating, keeping families and communities together.Improved Quality of Life: Less stress, lower costs (no commute), and more time with family (increased parental presence).Economic Stability: Provides a path to a career, not just a job, leading to higher annual wages and greater financial well-being.Teleworks USA (Old Model): Primarily focused on job-matching and offering quick workshops (e.g., customer service, digital literacy) to prepare candidates for immediate, entry-level remote jobs.Teleworks Academy (New Model/Enhancement): Represents a more comprehensive, structured career journey.Personalized Roadmap: Starts with a dedicated Career Advisor who assesses skills, creates an individualized training plan, and provides one-on-one guidance from enrollment through placement and beyond.Deeper Training: Offers recognized certifications and more in-depth, practical skills training developed with partners like the University of the Cumberlands.Sustained Support: Provides ongoing support even after a person is hired to ensure long-term job retention and success.Links: - ekcep.org - ekcep.org/programs-services/teleworks/- youtube.com/watch?v=LFrQAfLCh1c&t=9s