BDI's Office Essentials vocational training program teaches participants the skills necessary to survive—and succeed—in the modern office environment. With the essentials in hand, participants experience the pride and confidence that comes with knowledge. This innovative five-week program prepares participants for clerical and secretarial work by offering customer service and computer training. Participants learn the importance of showing up to work, getting along with coworkers, and being responsive to supervision. In addition, they learn how to use Windows, the Internet, and a variety of computer applications, including Microsoft Word, Excel, Access, Outlook, and PowerPoint. At the completion of this program students should have the ability to:

• Understand and employ basic Windows 98 and Office 2000 skills.
• Understand and employ basic keyboard technique.
• Understand and employ basic Microsoft Word skills.
• Use effective learning techniques to acquire and apply new office knowledge and skills.
• Take initiative to accomplish tasks in a timely manner.
• Demonstrate dependability and responsibility in an office environment.
• Work to satisfy customer or client expectations.
• Operate and maintain office equipment safely.

"I had nowhere to turn until I found BDI. I was assisted in job training skills through the Office Essentials class and later was placed in a professional job field. If it can happen for me, it can happen for you!"
-Pam, former participant