The first day of training for 142 former Levi Strauss employees began this week at San Antonio College, including an orientation session in McCreless Auditorium. The college's Continuing Education Training Network offers the training, which ranges from 10-18 months depending on students' needs.

The former employees are qualified for training under the Workforce Initiative Act. Funding for the programs, valued at approximately $6,000, is provided by the Federal Trade Adjustment Act and is administered by Alamo Workforce Development and the Texas Workforce Commission.

One group of students will study April 5, 2004 - Feb. 4, 2005 in General Diploma Certification (GED) Preparation and Job Skills training in Pharmacy Technician, Microsoft Office Specialist, or General Office Clerk programs. Another group will initially study English as a Second Language April 5, 2004 - Feb. 4, 2005 then receive GED and Job Skills training Feb. 7 - Nov. 2005. Classes will be held Monday-Friday, 9 a.m.-4 p.m.

For more information, call Tim Rockey, Information/Advisement Specialist, at 733-2652.