Maine PBS show on career changes

BANGOR – For years, Richard Schilling has wanted to turn his passion for woodworking into a full-time career. After 25 years in the corporate world, he has done just that by opening his own business, The Gentleman Cabinetmaker.

On Sept. 22, Maine PBS will tell the story of Richard Schilling, and others like him who are changing vocations, during “Career Crossroads,” the newest edition to the Reaching Higher series. The live call-in program focuses on people who are taking on new professions, either by choice, through layoff or displacement.

Schilling, of Portland, left his information technology job at Hannaford in May 2003 to pursue his dream of building custom furniture and cabinets. To prepare for his new business, Schilling enlisted the help of the Maine Department of Labor for guidance in production, marketing and administrative needs.

“Career Crossroads,” which airs at 8 p.m. Wednesday, Sept. 22, will feature personal stories about layoff experiences, how families are affected and how people succeed in changing careers or finding new employment. The show will consist of taped segments and live studio guests.

June Rowbotham, of Sebago, whose information technology job was eliminated earlier this year, is in the process of opening her own personal chef business. Rowbotham will be in the studio during the program to discuss the psychological effects of being downsized as well as her aspirations for her future.

An interview with Laura Fortman, commissioner for the Maine Department of Labor, will feature the emotional aspects of losing a job and highlight the services Maine offers through organizations such as CareerCenters, Small Business Administration, and Women, Work and Community.

Representatives from the CareerCenter and the Department of Education will be on hand to answer call-in questions and speak about opportunities available through adult education and the Community College System.

“Career Crossroads” will be rebroadcast at 10 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 25, and at 2 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 26.

During the program, viewers are encouraged to call in with comments or questions, or to obtain a special information packet about literacy, GED and adult education resources in the state. Phone operators will include literacy volunteers and adult education professionals.

Reaching Higher is a series of programs targeted at a variety of Maine learners such as high school students, displaced workers, adults seeking post-secondary education, government assistance recipients and others.

The first program, “Financial Aid,” reviewed the financial aid process including the different types of aid, and the various savings and loan plans available in Maine. “Continuing Your Education,” the second show, covered higher education choices and highlighted the University of Maine, private colleges, the Maine Community College System, adult education and distance learning. The third show, “Right to Read,” centered on educational opportunities. The program provided information about literacy skills and high school equivalency certifications.

For more information about Reaching Higher and links to education resources, visit the www.mainepbs.org and click on Reaching Higher.