65+ NC Workers Prepare for Job Market

The North Carolina Employment Security Commission reports that more people older than 65, are hitting the job market.

They say in our state the number of workers 65+ re-entering the job market, is up 10%.

More seniors in the east are heading back to the classroom, because employers require them to have more skills.

But employment agencies tell us the competitive job market requires competitive applicants.

Some “prime-timers” never thought they’d be heading back to the classroom.
“Retired early,” said Theresa Thompson.  “But if I have to go back and get a job I need to learn more about the computer as well as a whole.”

But with the economy in the state it’s in, some under 65 refuse to slow down.
It’s a story college professors hear more and more, which explains why applicants for some computer courses at community colleges are on a waiting list.

“I think the toughest challenge is taking what they’ve learned here,” said Pitt Community College professor Don Hazelwood.  “Being able to make that relevant in the job market to show they do have the job skills and they can compete.”

So job seekers aren’t just bringing what they have to the table, but in this job market, they have to be prepared to compete.