WorkFirst

You and your family deserve a better life – education can make a difference.

WorkFirst students at Renton Technical College find success in intensive training programs that mirror the workplace. Our WorkFirst team will work with every student to find a training program that is a good match. We provide the support students need to complete successfully and move into a family-wage career path.

The RTC WorkFirst Eligible Programs can be completed in 12 months or less and students may extend their education to 24 months. The work-study program is a great way to gain experience and support living costs while enrolled in college training. Explore more specific information about the training and the employment field of choice.

Short-Term Available Programs:

  • GED, High School Plus, Bridge to College: Students can brush up on basic skills while exploring career options and planning their next steps. The WorkFirst staff will assist in enrollment coordination with the College Career Pathway department.
  • Office Assistant Program: This 10-week program provides training in office computer skills, office procedures, business math, and keyboarding with document processing.
  • Accounting Clerk: The Accounting Clerk program instills fundamental skills in accounting theory and procedures. Students receive training in word processing, database, electronic spreadsheets, and general ledger.
  • Allied Health: Nursing Assistant, Medical Assistant; Phlebotomy, Central Service Technician.
  • Early Childhood Careers: Learn how to design curriculum, create positive learning environments, provide developmentally appropriate activities, and respect and accommodate cultural differences. Students must complete an internship at a childcare center as part of the program.
  • Property Maintenance: For ESL students, this program integrates English skills with vocational training in maintenance skills for apartment buildings and other residential settings. This 26-week program runs from September through March.
  • Life Skills (Career, Life, and Student Success): While students are waiting to begin a training program, take advantage of classes that will teach them to build on their personal strengths with skills and strategies for success in school and work. The two credit Life Skill classes are available between quarters to achieve student goals towards employment.

WorkFirst staff is here to help!

No appointment needed, drop-in Zoom sessions are available:

WorkFirst Virtual Welcome Center

  • Nate Ezelle, WF Service Delivery Coordinator
    • Students with last names A-L
    • New Student Intake
    • (425) 235-2110
    • nlezelle@rtc.edu
  • Jean Munro, WF Service Delivery Coordinator
    • Students with last names M-Z
    • Mondays from 3 – 4 p.m.
    • New Student Intake
    • (425) 235-6684 
    • jmunro@rtc.edu
  • Jennifer Davis, WF Reporting Coordinator
    • Attendance Information for all WorkFirst students
    • Mondays from 3:30 – 4:30 p.m.
    • (425) 235-6681
    • jdavis@rtc.edu
  • Shanteal Valteau, WF Services Specialist

To explore WorkFirst opportunities at Renton Technical College, visit the Get Started at Renton Technical College page, complete the initial entry survey, and apply for admissions. Students will also need to contact their DSHS case manager to ask for an educational referral.