UNL Workforce Expert and Volunteer Tutor Prepares Students to Land Good Jobs

People from all walks of life volunteer to be Lincoln Literacy (lincolnliteracy.org) tutors, but rarely does someone with the expertise of Dr. Rich Torraco appear at such an opportune moment. Responding to a COVID-19 unemployment spike, the UNL professor of workforce and human resource development is teaching a free class to help the jobless prepare for the kinds of work now available.

Torraco’s job-prep class does three things: improve English language skills, provide knowledge and skills for a specific job, and bolster computer skills. Each week, a new skill is introduced, from writing a cover letter to interview tips, and how to succeed on the job once you’re hired. Torraco believes it’s important for those who teach workforce skills to stay connected to the field. Lincoln Literacy students, who include refugees and immigrants as well as homegrown Americans, give him the chance to do just that.

“With Rich’s help, we plan to offer many more job-prep opportunities this fall,” says Lincoln Literacy Executive Director Clayton Naff.

Established in 1972, Lincoln Literacy has grown to become the community’s leader in helping residents gain the English language and literacy skills needed to become full and productive members of our community. It currently does this through free online classes and tutoring. Learn more at lincolnliteracy.org.