The Chester County Opportunities Industrialization Center (Chester County OIC), a nonprofit based in Chester County’s Coatesville, empowers economically disadvantaged individuals by providing vital resources and support to those striving for self-sufficiency.
But what does that look like in action? What programs are available, and how can you get involved?
To answer these questions, VISTA Today sat down with the Chester County OIC team for an in-depth Q&A series, offering a comprehensive look at this essential community resource. This is the first installment of a multi-part series — stay tuned for more insights into Chester County OIC’s programs, impact, and ways to get involved!
Can you give an overview of the different educational and workforce development programs CCOIC offers?
Max Hopton, Director of Workforce Education and Media Relations Manager, breaks this down, stating that Adult Education Services at Chester County OIC include ESL (English as a Second Language); an Adult Tutoring Program; and GED Classes.
“OIC offers five levels of instruction in both day and evening classes, in-person and virtual, twice a week,” said Hopton. “Students can be accommodated in beginning and intermediate English language skills to advanced civics education where they can study for U.S. citizenship.”
He states that tutoring is also available for ESL Support through the Exton Library: “A one-on-one volunteer tutoring program based in the Chester County Library in Exton offers an alternative to classroom instruction. This program serves ESL, TOEFL, ABE, and GED lessons.”
As for the OIC’s GED Classes, Hopton states that this program offers qualified adults without a high school diploma educational training in the four major subject areas, with the goal of passing the GED exam. GED classes are offered twice a week, in the daytime, or in the evening at various locations.
The GED and ESL programs are a significant part of CCOIC. What are some success stories from students who have completed these programs?
Hopton shares a recent success story, of a student named “KC” from the GED Class of 2025, who shared a lovely note with the OIC GED team:
“When I came to Careerlink in Exton, I was blown away by the help I received. I found an amazing teaching staff in Nina, Karin, Aeran, and Michelle. They are all great at their jobs. They know the material they teach, breaking down things that seem complex into simple steps that are easy to understand. More than that, they have cultivated a culture of love. No matter how frustrated I became when I couldn’t seem to find the answers to a problem, Nina, Karin, Aeran, and the rest of the team were always patient, compassionate, and encouraging every step of the way. They love their work, they love to help people, they love to see people learn and succeed, and they love to see people graduate. When I came here I found teachers that truly care about their students and that kept me coming back.”
“KC, like many of our GED and ESL clients, have abilities that they want to grow and their education or language confidence is a barrier that we can help with,” shared Hopton.
Are there any other programs that help with workforce reintegration?
David Day, Workforce Development Manager at Chester County OIC, outlines the following resources for those looking to re-enter the workforce with valuable skills:
“The Workforce Reintegration Program (WRP) uses a holistic, supported employment approach in working to help individuals overcome the multiple barriers that prevent them from finding and maintaining self-sustaining employment,” explained Day.
WRP serves Populations that the WRP serves include ex-offenders; the unemployed and underemployed; single parents; and veterans.
WRP provides:
- Identification and assistance in removing barriers;
- Assistance in creating a professional resume;
- Interview skills training;
- One-on-one skills assessment & goal setting.
- Online job search and networking assistance.
- Vocational training (i.e. forklift);
- Referrals to job locator services at PA Career Link;
- Transportation and clothing assistance;
- Free weekly and monthly employment readiness workshops;
- Job fairs; and
- Cross-referral into other workforce programs.
https://www.dol.gov/“In collaboration with OIC of America and through the U.S. Department of Labor, Chester County OIC offers workforce development and case management services for everyone, including young adults and adults who have been involved in the criminal justice system,” said Day. “The goal of the Workforce Reintegration Program is to help people make a successful transition into the workforce by earning Industry Recognized Credentials and becoming productive, responsible, and law-abiding citizens.”
Learn more at the Chester County OIC.
