THREE enterprising women took threats to their jobs as a spur to learn new skills to make them more employable.
They took themselves along for IT training at the Luton Learning Centre in Upper George Street and have secured or won new jobs as a result.
Noleen McLoughlin, who works in the NHS, knows her job may be at threat so gave up her lunch hours three days a week to study for her IT qualification.
“I hope this means that it will help me keep my job or if the worst happens, I am better equipped to find another,” said the busy mother of two who celebrated her 10th wedding anniversary this year.
Sandra Gregory was made redundant after more than 30 years as a tailoress. She went to the Learning Centre to gain her ITQ and in so doing has made herself a more valuable member of staff at a chemist in High Town where she works part time.
Sue Short is a great example of how lifelong learning can keep you young and in demand.
Now in her 60s Sue visited the Learning Centre in her spare time to keep her IT skills up to date and has progressed to the more advanced Level 3 in some courses
She expected to lose her job at Luton Borough Council, but won a new post at least in part because she was able to demonstrate her modern IT skills.
Sue also won the prize draw at a presentation evening at Luton Learning Centre on Wednesday and was presented with a lap top by Pete Burton. director of Bright Learning Solutions.
Bright Learning Solutions are partners with Bedford College in running the IT training centre.