The EMPWR LA training program is a fast-paced, full-service pre-employment program that helps individuals gain the skills, knowledge, and certifications needed to enter the workforce. Through focused, short-term training, EMPWR LA prepares job-ready candidates to meet the needs of employers across Louisiana and beyond.
EMPWR LA is a workforce training program designed to quickly prepare individuals for entry-level roles in high-demand fields. In just six weeks, participants receive up to 240 hours of hands-on training using state-of-the-art equipment, led by expert instructors. The program mirrors a 40-hour work week and emphasizes professionalism through structured schedules, dress codes, and attendance expectations.
- Accelerated Training
- Six-week program (up to 240 hours)
- Hands-on and classroom instruction using state-of-the-art equipment
- Led by expert instructors
- Structured like a 40-hour work week
- Professional Preparation
- Emphasis on dress code, attendance, and workplace behavior
- Builds habits and expectations aligned with employer needs
- Industry-Based Credentials (IBCs)
- Earn up to 12 nationally recognized IBCs
- Demonstrates skills, knowledge, and job readiness to employers
- Direct Employer Connections
- Developed in partnership with industry leaders
- Guaranteed employer interviews in week four
- Training aligned with real-world job requirements
- Real Results
- Bridges the gap between education and employment
- Prepares job-ready candidates for high-demand industries
- Strengthens Louisiana’s workforce and economic growth
To meet industry needs, the training will focus on a primary entry-level role: Frontline Workers.
Frontline workers play a critical role in the production process, performing hands-on tasks that directly contribute to manufacturing operations. These employees work on the production floor in roles such as assembly line workers, machine operators, and quality inspectors. Their responsibilities often include assembling components, monitoring equipment, ensuring product quality, and maintaining efficiency in production. As the first point of contact with the products being made, frontline workers are essential to meeting production goals while maintaining safety and quality standards.
Participation in the EMPWR LA program requires candidates to meet specific eligibility criteria that ensure their preparedness for the program’s structured and intensive training. These requirements are designed to uphold high standards of professionalism, accountability, and workforce readiness.
- Participants in the program must be 18 years old by their first day of employment.
- All participants are required to pass a drug screening at a designated clinic before they are admitted to the training program.
- Individuals who do not pass the drug screening will not be permitted to participate in the EMPWR LA program until such time that negative screening is provided.
- Participants must demonstrate the mental and physical capabilities.
- This includes the ability to follow safety protocols, operate equipment responsibly, and work in environments that may require standing for extended periods, lifting materials of up to 70 pounds, pushing and pulling of large objects, or performing repetitive tasks.
- While reasonable accommodations may be available, participants must be able to meet the core physical demands essential to their training.
Enrollment in the EMPWR LA training program is limited to 15 participants per six-week session to ensure a high-quality, hands-on learning experience.
- To apply, interested individuals must first complete an interest form. After submitting the form, applicants will receive instructions on the next steps, including eligibility verification and how to complete the full application.
- Seats are filled in the order completed applications are received, so early submission is encouraged.
- Participants who choose to withdraw from the program while making satisfactory progress and remaining in good standing with the training college may reapply for a future session.
- Re-enrollment depends on space availability and current program requirements at the time of reentry.
- Participants who are removed from the program due to poor performance, attendance issues, or unsafe behavior will not be eligible to return.
EMPWR LA prioritizes a professional, respectful, and safety-focused learning environment, and all participants are expected to follow program expectations to support their success and the well-being of others.
EMPWR LA’s all-inclusive tuition is $2,495 and covers everything—courses, hands-on training, certifications, materials, and basic safety gear. There are no hidden fees, making it an affordable path to high-demand careers.
Financial aid may be available for eligible students. This program is eligible for funding through the MJ Foster Promise Program and the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA), and students are encouraged to apply for both.
EMPWR LA is powered by strong partnerships with top employers in advanced manufacturing, industrial production, distribution, and skilled trades. These companies are invested in building a skilled local workforce and providing real job opportunities for program graduates. By working closely with industry leaders, EMPWR LA ensures its training stays hands-on, relevant, and aligned with the needs of today’s job market—supporting both individual success and Louisiana’s economic growth.
CURRENT EMPLOYER PARTNERS
- ANDRITZ
- Bienville Lumber Company, LLC
- EI Williams
- Frymaster
- Johns Manville
- Red Ball Oxygen
EMPWR LA is committed to preparing participants for real-world career expectations, and punctuality, accountability, and reliability are key factors in their success. Participants are expected to demonstrate consistent and on-time attendance on training days to ensure the full benefit of the program’s hands-on learning activities and industry certification opportunities.
To successfully complete the program and remain in good standing:
- Participants must be present for all scheduled training days unless an absence is excused.
- Any participant who misses three (3) or more days of training, regardless of reason, may be removed from enrollment.
- Excessive tardiness or repeated absences may also result in dismissal.
To reinforce workplace readiness, participants are required to:
- Clock in at the start of each training day.
- Clock out at the end of the training day.
- Clock in and out for the designated lunch period.
Failure to follow these procedures may result in attendance violations and the potential for removal from the training program.
The program is committed to fostering a professional and safety-conscious learning environment. As is standard in skilled trades and manufacturing facilities across the nation, the use of cell phones during hands-on laboratory training is strictly prohibited.
- Cell phones must be stored away during all hands-on training activities.
- Use of personal devices is only permitted during designated breaks and lunch periods in non-lab areas.
- Instructors and program staff reserve the right to enforce this policy, and repeated violations may result in disciplinary action, including removal from the training program.
EMPWR LA emphasizes safety, professionalism, and engagement as essential qualities for workforce readiness. Adhering to this policy ensures that participants remain focused, safe, and prepared for real-world job expectations.
The EMPWR LA training program follows a structured schedule that reflects the expectations of a full-time work environment. Unless otherwise noted, classes are held Monday through Friday, from 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM.
To support productivity and engagement, participants will have:
- One 15-minute morning break
- A 30-minute lunch period
- One 15-minute afternoon break
This schedule ensures that participants receive intensive, hands-on training while maintaining a balanced and focused learning experience.
In week four of the program, students focus on résumé writing, interviewing skills, and communication strategies—culminating in an on-campus event that includes guaranteed job interviews with our industry partners. While job placement is not guaranteed, the goal is for every student to complete the program with a clear pathway into an entry-level position that leads to a family-sustaining wage.
For the duration of the program, participants in the program must adhere to the professional and safety-focused dress code standards. These guidelines are designed to reflect industry expectations while ensuring the safety and well-being of all participants during hands-on training activities.
REQUIRED ATTIRE
- Long pants (e.g., jeans or work pants) must be worn at all times—shorts, skirts, or dresses are not permitted.
- Closed-toe, sturdy shoes or work boots are required. Sandals, flip-flops, and open-back shoes are strictly prohibited.
- Loose jewelry is not allowed in laboratory settings or hands-on training activities, as it poses a safety risk. This includes dangling earrings, necklaces, bracelets, and rings that could get caught in equipment.
- Shirts must have sleeves—tank tops and sleeveless shirts are not permitted in lab areas.
HIGH-VISIBILITY SAFETY JACKET
- EMPWR LA provides each participant with a high-visibility safety jacket, which must be worn whenever in a laboratory setting or while participating in hands-on learning activities.
- Failure to wear the required safety jacket may result in removal from the training session for the day.
PERSONAL PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT (PPE)
At times, training may require additional college-provided PPE, including:
- Hard hats
- Safety gloves
- Protective eyewear (safety glasses or goggles)
- Hearing protection (earplugs or earmuffs)
- Respiratory protection, if applicable
All PPE must be worn as directed by instructors and in accordance with industry safety standards. Failure to comply with PPE requirements will result in disciplinary action, up to and including removal from the program. By adhering to this dress code and PPE policy, participants demonstrate their commitment to professionalism, workplace readiness, and safety.
CONTACT INFORMATION
Kathy Dewitt
Workforce Training Coordinator
A-205
318-678-6492
kdewitt@bpcc.edu