Program Staff:
Katie Haigler, Center Manager
Marilyn Pickering, Counselor
Natasha Grigg, Recruitment Counselor
Brandi Mintz, Administrative Assistant
Assist To Work

THE ASSIST PROGRAM The Accessible Support Services and Instruction for Sustainable Transition (ASSIST) to Work program is a comprehensive and customizable education and support services program that will prepare participants for the competitive global workforce.
The objective of the ASSIST program is to deliver quality technological education and career training to South Carolina workers. The program ensures that Trade Adjustment Assistance (TAA) candidates, dislocated, displaced, unemployed and incumbent workers are at ease in learning and working around technology-enriched environments. It is this educational technology training that will provide a sound foundation for a lifetime of learning and experience for the 21st century employee.
An essential part of ASSIST is the Academic Success and Career Center (ASCC). Our focus is to support and guide participants through their educational endeavors and job skills training. With this gained knowledge and experience, participants will be more competitive in today’s global workforce. We are committed to helping participants find their academic and career pathways and strive to provide the assistance needed to ensure that these pathways are successfully accomplished.
LOCAL PARTNERSHIPS Local business partners play an important role in the ASSIST program. Regional business leaders guide program content and curriculum to ensure that students learn the skills and competencies required by employers. This is accomplished through the close relationships between OCtech and local business partners as well as through surveying regional businesses to help determine specific educational needs and advanced technical skills required for today’s workforce. ASSIST (and ASCC) staff members work closely with these business leaders to establish educational opportunities for participants, such as internships, assistantships, on-the-job training, and apprenticeship programs. We offer the tools and insights that help shape meaningful academic, internship, and employment experiences. These programs will improve employment opportunities for students participating in the ASSIST program so they will be ready for full-time employment upon graduation.
This workforce solution was funded by a grant awarded by the U.S. Department of Labor’s Employment and Training Administration. The solution was created by the grantee and does not necessarily reflect the official position of the U.S. Department of Labor. The Department of Labor makes no guarantees, warranties, or assurances of any kind, express or implied, with respect to such information, including any information on linked sites and including, but not limited to, accuracy of the information or its completeness, timeliness, usefulness, adequacy, continued availability, or ownership.

Hours: Monday-Thursday: 8:00am-7:00pm & Friday: 8:00am-1:30pm
Location: Building S - Tourville Lab - Room 201
Contact Information: 803.535.1347 or
ASCC@octech.edu