Eastern Kentucky Concentrated Employment Program (EKCEP) today announced the launch of the Teleworks Academy, a significant enhancement to its successful remote work division, Teleworks USA. The Academy is a free, comprehensive program designed to equip job seekers in the region with the specific skills, support, and credentials needed to secure high-quality, work-from-home careers.
A division of EKCEP, Teleworks USA empowers Eastern Kentuckians to participate in the global economy from the comfort of their homes. However, as the digital economy expands, the demand for remote work has created unprecedented opportunities. Today’s remote jobseekers often struggle due to intense online competition, a lack of specific digital certifications, and uncertainty about navigating the virtual job market. The Teleworks Academy is designed to directly address these challenges with a structured, supportive pathway to success.
“This isn’t just about finding someone a job; it’s about building a sustainable remote work ecosystem right here in Eastern Kentucky,” said Becky Carnes-Miller, Executive Director of EKCEP. “The Teleworks Academy empowers our workforce with the verified skills that remote employers seek. We are investing in our people, strengthening our communities, and ensuring that Eastern Kentucky is a competitive force in the 21st-century economy.”
The new academy model provides a personalized roadmap for each participant, beginning with a comprehensive needs assessment conducted by a dedicated career advisor. Based on the individual’s skills and career goals, they are guided through a tailored pathway that can include foundational support like résumé assistance and virtual interview preparation, as well as enrollment in key certification programs developed in partnership with the University of the Cumberlands. These free certifications cover essential areas such as customer service, financial literacy, and crucial soft skills.
Upon completion of their personalized pathway, graduates of the Teleworks Academy receive dedicated job placement assistance, connecting them with Teleworks USA’s network of employer partners and a curated portal with legitimate remote-job openings.
“We see talented, hardworking people every day who just need that extra edge to land a great remote job. The Teleworks Academy provides a clear, supportive roadmap to get them there,” Carnes-Miller added. “From the first assessment to the final job offer, we are with them every step of the way. We’re taking the guesswork out of getting hired from home and replacing it with confidence and credentials.”
Services through the Teleworks Academy are available at no cost to eligible individuals residing within the 23-county EKCEP service area. Residents interested in launching a remote work career or learning more about the Teleworks Academy are encouraged to visit ekcep.org/programs-services/teleworks.
EKCEP, a nonprofit workforce development agency headquartered in Hazard, Ky., serves the citizens of 23 Appalachian coalfield counties. EKCEP is funded by the federal Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act, along with various federal and state grants and private donations. Learn more at ekcep.org.