Catholic Charities of the Diocese of Arlington Migration and Refugee Services Help Prepare Refugees for Information Technology Jobs

Workshop Helped Refugees with Backgrounds or Interest in IT Identify Pathways 
to Contribute Their Skills Effectively in an Increasingly Competitive Market

ARLINGTON, VA - On Saturday, October 5, 2019, Catholic Charities of the Diocese of Arlington Migration and Refugee Services (MRS) conducted a workshop to help refugees prepare for careers in Information Technology (IT). The free almost two-hour training was part of MRS' ongoing workforce development efforts to prepare refugees to build effectively upon their current skills. It was held at MRS' Arlington offices located at 80 N. Glebe Rd.

“Workforce training is a key part of our mission and commitment to helping families and our communities flourish,” said Art Bennett, President and CEO, Catholic Charities of the Diocese of Arlington. “Our goal is to accompany refugees and others as they strive to integrate fully into our community and contribute their gifts and skills to the local economy.”

Refugees come to the United States with a wide range of experiences and skills. The workshop aimed to help participants compete in an increasingly competitive job market. It featured a panel discussion with Deloitte professionals on IT career pathways, a question-and-answer session, and personalized one-on-one guidance and resume review. Sixteen refugees with varying levels of experience in IT attended the training. Participants were encouraged to bring their resumes and prepare business profiles.

In addition, MRS collaborated with doctors from Georgetown University Hospital to offer a workshop for refugees interested in careers as medical doctors. The training took place Wednesday, October 23, 7:30 p.m. at MRS' Arlington offices at 80 N. Glebe Rd. 

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Catholic Charities of the Diocese of Arlington serves the poor and vulnerable who live within the 21 counties and seven cities of the Diocese of Arlington, which is led by Bishop Michael F. Burbidge. Catholic Charities provides food for the hungry, a free medical clinic for adults including prenatal care, adoption services, transformational housing for the homeless, mental health counseling, emergency financial assistance, prison ministry, workforce development and immigration and refugee services. Catholic Charities serves all, regardless of faith. www.ccda.net.