MOLINE, Illinois -
When Sue Raymond's job was downsized due to the economy, she became another statistic. Like many packing the house at Moline's Library Tuesday morning, confused about applying for jobs at the Rock Island Arsenal.
"What's the difference between the two?" she asked.
But more than just a face in the crowd, she's seizing the moment and weaving her way through a maze of government red tape and applications to find a fresh start.
"It's a government position, so the opportunity for benefits they can provide is the most important thing for us," she said.
The Arsenal is making a conscious effort to forge partnerships with civilian firms to grow new jobs. The Joint Manufacturing and Technology Center alone added some 700 jobs during the past two years. The facility wants to remain vibrant when wartime ends. But getting hired here can be a battle itself.
"It wasn't a question of whether or not they were qualified," said Ken Lilly, a veterans employment representative. "It was the procedures, the steps that are taken in order to apply."
Reason enough for Lilly to guide the two-hour session. Unemployed nurse Kevin Alter was among those getting clearer directions.
"I was wondering why I wasn't getting responses before," he said. "And what he said in the first half-hour is pretty much the reason why."
Since a lot of people are looking for jobs these days at the Illinois Department of Employment Security office in Moline, the tips help applicants when competition is keen for Arsenal positions. According to Lilly, starting pay ranges from $37,000-97,000 for a variety of jobs.
That's enlightening for Sue Raymond, 46. The Eldridge wife and mom is learning the complicated moves through the application process.
"He gave us the correct information they need to get you through the front door," she said. "Hopefully, get an interview and a job as well."
A solid job through sluggish times.
The Illinois WorkNet Center hosts free employment success workshops at 9 a.m. each Monday. The sessions take place at 4703 16th Street in Moline.
"What's the difference between the two?" she asked.
But more than just a face in the crowd, she's seizing the moment and weaving her way through a maze of government red tape and applications to find a fresh start.
"It's a government position, so the opportunity for benefits they can provide is the most important thing for us," she said.
The Arsenal is making a conscious effort to forge partnerships with civilian firms to grow new jobs. The Joint Manufacturing and Technology Center alone added some 700 jobs during the past two years. The facility wants to remain vibrant when wartime ends. But getting hired here can be a battle itself.
"It wasn't a question of whether or not they were qualified," said Ken Lilly, a veterans employment representative. "It was the procedures, the steps that are taken in order to apply."
Reason enough for Lilly to guide the two-hour session. Unemployed nurse Kevin Alter was among those getting clearer directions.
"I was wondering why I wasn't getting responses before," he said. "And what he said in the first half-hour is pretty much the reason why."
Since a lot of people are looking for jobs these days at the Illinois Department of Employment Security office in Moline, the tips help applicants when competition is keen for Arsenal positions. According to Lilly, starting pay ranges from $37,000-97,000 for a variety of jobs.
That's enlightening for Sue Raymond, 46. The Eldridge wife and mom is learning the complicated moves through the application process.
"He gave us the correct information they need to get you through the front door," she said. "Hopefully, get an interview and a job as well."
A solid job through sluggish times.
The Illinois WorkNet Center hosts free employment success workshops at 9 a.m. each Monday. The sessions take place at 4703 16th Street in Moline.
