In the U.S., it's hard enough getting a job today. Now imagine being a highly skilled refugee who comes here with an engineering or similar degree and serviceable English skills but must construct a resume and cover letter for the first time -- and confront his lack of licensing and certifications needed for many professional posts.
The Refugee Career Mentoring Program was begun as a pilot program of the Allegheny County Department of Human Services in September, 2011 for 10 refugees from Iraq and Pakistan, many of whom have worked as interpreters for the military or U.S. contractors during the past decade of war. The program matched each one with a professional mentor who helped teach basic job-seeking skills and connect them with other local professionals
.
"It's been a really wonderful experience for everyone," says Program Chair Yvette Yescas. So far, one program participant who had worked in procurement overseas got a job as an accountant here. Another, with computer programming skills, secured a job in her field. "We've seen quite a few doors open for them. That was one of the surprises of the program."
Although similar programs exist in Los Angeles, Washington, D.C. and many Canadian cities, it may be fairly unexpected for once-insular Pittsburgh. Yescas is hopeful that the 10 local agencies that are currently overseeing the program can find a permanent home and funding for it in the near future.
"This is really a volunteer effort," says Yescas, "but we're working very hard to make it sustainable."
For more information on the Refugee Career Mentoring Program, contact Yvette Yescas
here or call 412-977-8576.
Writer:
Marty Levine
Source: Yvette Yescas, Refugee Career Mentoring Program