IELCE: Supported Occupational Training for English Language Learners

Are you an ESL student who has reached Level 5 or higher, or even exited the ESL program? Congratulations! But maybe you're wondering, "What's next?"

IELCE Program

  • Free: tuition, books, fees, and services
  • Quick: classes are 8-16 weeks
  • Contextualized: English language support classes focused on the language for your job training courses

IELCE Classes

Not sure if college or a specific career is right for you yet? The IELCE program offers classes to help you transition to your next big step.

  • Introduction to Information Technology (IT) Course

    The Introduction to Information Technology (IT) course is a 16-week class that is designed to equip you with essential skills and terminology for success in future IT curriculum or continuing education. Participants will not earn an industry certification, but is designed to prepare you to be successful in an IT certification course in the future. The course will explore key IT topics including keyboarding, hardware fundamentals, operating systems, career pathways in the IT field, internet servers, and basic programming concepts.

    Details

    • 16-week course every spring and fall semester
    • Asynchronous homework in Brightspace
    • In-person morning computer lab classes.

    Requirements

    To take this course, you must:

    • have completed ESL level 5 or higher, including students who may have tested out of ESL
    • take Northstar Digital Literacy tests
    • have a history of good attendance
    • be willing to complete homework
    • have a valid test score
    • have strong verbal skills (interview required)
  • Transitions to College and Career Pathways

    This course helps you develop skills for success at Central Piedmont, including learning about programs, admissions processes, resume writing, interviewing, and job search techniques.

    Details

    • 8-week course
    • Learn how to apply to Central Piedmont.
    • Explore different careers and discover the perfect program for you.
    • Learn essential skills for writing a resume and interviewing.

    Requirements

    To take this course, you must:

    • have completed ESL level 5 or higher, including students who may have tested out of ESL
    • have a history of good attendance
    • be willing to complete homework
    • have a valid test score
    • have strong verbal skills (interview required)
  • Working Smart

    Ready to jump into the workforce? This course teaches valuable soft skills and American work culture. You can earn a certificate upon completion. Working Smart is recognized and valued by Mecklenburg County employers.

    Details

    • 8-week course
    • Learn how to communicate confidently with colleagues and supervisors.
    • Understand employer expectations and impress at your job.
    • Succeed in the workplace and achieve your career goals.

    Requirements

    To take this course, you must:

    • have completed ESL level 5 or higher, including students who may have tested out of ESL
    • have a history of good attendance
    • be willing to complete homework
    • have a valid test score
    • have strong verbal skills (interview required)

IELCE Career Training Courses

Already have a career in mind? IELCE offers a variety of training programs where you can earn industry-recognized certificates.

  • Basic Auto Repair: Light Auto Repair and Maintenance

    The Basic Auto Repair Program is a nine-week program that will support you as you gain basic automotive skills and prepare for a career in the automotive fields. The entry level auto repair and maintenance track will include the NCSI certification and OBD II Certification. Upon successful completion of the program and exams, you will be qualified for employment in various automotive technician or mechanic positions.

    Learn more about becoming an automotive service technician and mechanic.

    Details

    • 9-week course every spring and fall semester
    • Dual enroll in continuing education and ESL support classes
    • Hands-on practice
    • Asynchronous homework in Brightspace
    • Morning classes at Levine Campus

    Requirements

    To take this course, you must:

    • have a valid driver's license
    • have completed ESL level 5 or higher, including students who may have tested out of ESL
    • attend an orientation session
    • be comfortable working in a typical automotive garage environment
    • have a history of good attendance
    • be willing to complete homework
    • have a valid test score
    • have strong verbal skills (interview required)
  • Community Health Worker

    This 16-week program equips you with the knowledge, tools, and resources to become community health workers (CHW) in various settings, including health departments, hospitals, and faith-based organizations. This course is designed to cover core competencies essential to working as a certified CHW, including communication, connecting people to services, advocating for health needs, and reaching out to the community. Upon successful completion of the program and exam, you will have the opportunity to receive your certificate from the North Carolina Community Health Worker Association.

    Learn more about becoming a community health worker.

    Details

    • 16-week course every spring and fall semester
    • Dual enroll in continuing education and ESL support classes
    • Asynchronous homework in Brightspace

    Requirements

    To take this course, you must:

    • have a high school diploma or GED
    • have completed ESL level 5 or higher, including students who may have tested out of ESL
    • attend online classes with mandatory weekly virtual meetings
    • have a history of good attendance
    • be willing to complete homework
    • have a valid test score
    • have strong verbal skills (interview required)
  • Fundamentals of Food - ServSafe® Manager

    This 10-week course provides up-to-date information for all employee levels on aspects of handling food. This program will prepare you to pass the ServSafe® Manager certification exam. You will learn about food safety and prepare for employment in the restaurant industry. Upon successful completion of the program and exam, you will have the opportunity to receive your ServSafe® Manager Certification.

    Learn more about working in a restaurant.

    Details

    • 10-week course 
    • Dual enroll in continuing education and ESL support classes
    • Hands-on practice
    • In-person evening classes at Central Campus

    Requirements

    To take this course, you must:

    • have completed ESL level 5 or higher, including students who may have tested out of ESL
    • have a history of good attendance
    • be comfortable working in a typical kitchen environment
    • be willing to complete homework
    • have a valid test score
    • have strong verbal skills (interview required)

Ready to take IELCE Classes?

Schedule an appointment with an IELCE advisor in person, on the phone, or through Teams.

  • Details

    Follow these steps to schedule your appointment online:

    1. Select Central Campus as your location.
    2. Choose IELCE advisor.
    3. Pick a date and time that works best for you from the available options.
    4. Enter your preferred type of contact.
    5. In the comment sections, write the course you are interested in.
    6. Select the "Schedule Appointment" button.