People who are looking for work or to change jobs can hear about a new, free job training program during the weekly, local public affairs program, Southern Tier Close Up.

SkillUp launched in mid January and Director of Employment and Training for Workforce New York, Sara Liu talks about how the program works.

Liu says residents can go online to complete work for badges for completed training in various fields.

Liu says many people have the wrong notion that there are no good-paying jobs in the region when, in fact, employers are finding it hard to find qualified applicants for over 2,500 open positions.

Some of the career fields looking to fill positions are in healthcare, customer service, clerical, skilled trade and warehousing. The program, meanwhile, can also tailor courses to the needs of a specific employer.

SkillUp initially has slots for 400 local residents to sign up for free online training but courses are also being offered in a classroom through the Binghamton City School District Adult Education Program.

Liu adds there are other resources available for job-seekers, including help in resume preparation through Broome/Tioga Workforce New York.

To sign up for the online training go to Broome.SkillUpAmerica.org.

Southern Tier Close Up can be heard Sunday at 6 am on 99.1 The Whale.

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