With a mix of nerves and excitement, Kelsey Gologergen joined Kawerak’s Administrative Assistant Trainee program last fall. Coming from a background working in schools at home in Savoonga, she thought applying for and working in this job would create new experiences and give her the chance to develop new skills.
“What motivated me to apply was that I thought it would be a great work experience, and it was something new to me, which excited me,” Kelsey said.
Kawerak’s Administrative Assistant Trainee program began in 2023 with a spring cohort and a fall cohort. The program offers participants on-the-job training for about 6 months, an experience level many employers like to see in applicants for administrative assistant positions. Kelsey assists the Employment, Education and Supportive Services Department with front desk responsibilities. She answers phones and emails and supports programs in the office with projects.
“This position has opened up my thoughts on having a different career. My resume has expanded and this job has shown me all kinds of new stuff like working at a desk, answering phones, making phone calls, sending and receiving emails, and knowing I can learn to work with people I have never met before and get along with them,” Kelsey said.
The Administrative Assistant Trainee program was created with built-in support from staff and supervisors within Kawerak’s EESS Department. Kelsey appreciates the opportunity to learn and grow within the job, which is tailored to guide the trainees into more responsibility.
“My favorite part of being in this position is the great help I get from my supervisor and the team we have made. Brandolyn and Lena were patient with me and taught me so much! And if I needed guidance, they would stop and assist me or teach me,” Kelsey said.
Brandolyn Ahyakak is Employment Specialist in Kawerak’s EESS Department and supervises participants in the Administrative Assistant Trainee position. She said the primary goal of the program is to help tribal members enter the workforce in their field of interest. This program is a great opportunity for new employees to gain valuable skills on-the-job, creating a base level of experience on which to build toward future employment with Kawerak or wherever their job path leads. And the program supports the trainees by creating a positive and work environment where participants feel valued, take pride in their work, and enjoy what they do.
Trainees work through structured online courses to cultivate a base level of knowledge in a variety of areas that pertain to work in an office setting. These skills create groundwork for the participants to grow and develop. But the focus is not simply black and white skills for their resume. Brandolyn said that some of the most important learning comes from off the screen.
“One of the most important components I emphasize is hands-on, independent interaction with clients and staff,” she said.
Administrative assistants are often the first point of contact in an organization, so gaining confidence in assisting others is essential. She knows that trainees will learn to trust their own skills and abilities if they have the opportunity to make decisions and address clients directly. And as the supervisor, she remains close by for questions and affirmation or constructive criticism, when needed.
“Building their confidence is a major priority,” Brandolyn said. “It allows them to succeed in any office setting they choose to pursue.”
In addition to front desk duties and online skills building, Kelsey has taken on projects to support work in the EESS Department during her time as Administrative Assistant Trainee. She recently helped process applications for Kawerak’s Summer Youth Employment Program, further developing her work experience.
Kelsey is thankful for the experience she’s gained through the Administrative Assistant Trainee program and is excited to show her kids that taking a risk and working toward a new future can pay off.
“I can show my children that if I can get out of my comfort zone and do the impossible; leave home and search for a job, hopefully for a place to stay and call home, then they can do that too,” she said.
Kawerak’s Administrative Assistant Trainee program will be rolling out applications for the next cohort soon! Keep an eye out at www.kawerak.org/aes and on social media: www.facebook.com/kawerak.
