In October 2017, Greater Phoenix Chamber Foundation (GPCF) in partnership with the City of Phoenix ARIZONA@WORK office, launched a pilot program dedicated to preparing individuals to pass the Series 7 License exam.
The first cohort started on Nov. 6, 2017, and completed their training program Jan. 19, 2018. Using a preferred education provider, 13 individuals received training utilizing federal workforce dollars, preparing them to sit for the Series 7 exam. Eight individuals successfully completed the midterm exam and became eligible for employment with participating employers. Most of those individuals have been hired and will start employment immediately, beginning a new career path in the financial services industry.
A second cohort begins in February 2018.
The Series 7 training model prepares individuals to pass the Series 7 License exam, a requirement for many financial services careers, including financial services advisors and analysts. With this program, individuals prepare for the Series 7 exam through an eight-week online course.
Students are also able and encouraged to connect with participating companies through a series of mixers held during the training. This provides insight into the culture of their organization and the types of financial services positions they have available.
Mamboleo had interviews with three financial services investment firms scheduled before he completed the training program.
By partnering with the City of Phoenix Arizona@Work Office, GPCF is helping to create opportunities for individuals to train for in-demand positions. Through the Financial Services workforce collaborative, GPCF aims to address critical shortages for entry-level financial advisors and financial analysts.
With the creation and implementation of this job readiness training program, GPCF is working with community partners to bridge the skills gap in financial services and better prepare individuals to pass the necessary exams and provide screenings to individuals to assess their skills at the front end.
Access to a larger pool of qualified talent will enable existing Arizona financial services companies to expand their footprint and grow the economy.
Interested in enrolling in the program? Email phoenix.business.center@phoenix.gov, call (602) 256-3147 or stop into an ARIZONA@WORK office. For a listing of offices near you, go to www.arizonaatwork.com/az-locations. The ARIZONA@WORK Team will verify your eligibility to receive tuition funding and after approval of funding, will assist you with the final enrollment process into the Series 7 Program.