Work Ready is a nationally recognized program through ACT, Inc. It leverages the ACT WorkKeys National Career Readiness Certificate (NCRC) to build common frameworks that link and align the workforce and workforce development efforts.

We have tested thousands of residents who have illustrated their skill in applied math, workplace documents and graphic literacy and earned a NCRC at either the Bronze, Silver, Gold or Platinum levels.

More than 200 employers of all sizes who have joined us by recognizing the value of the NCRC.

WorkReady for Businesses

As a business, joining a WorkReady Community can have many benefits. By using the National Career Readiness Certificate (NCRC) in your hiring and employment practices, you can:

  • Reduce employee turnover
  • Lower hiring costs
  • Improve employee performance
  • Increase hiring effectiveness

Applicants who have the NCRC have demonstrated proficiency in basic reading and math skills needed for most jobs. Moreover, this can help your company identify skills gaps, necessary training, and opportunities for advancement for your current employees.

Explore current Ohio Employers Supporting NCRC and refer to the FAQs below to learn more.

Become A WorkReady Employer
  • How can ACT WorkReady help my business?

    This toolkit explains how WorkReady benefits your business and includes examples of how other businesses have used the program.
    View Toolkit

WorkReady for Job Seekers

WorkReady Lucas County is a program that helps workers improve their reading and math skills for free. The program awards the WorkKeys National Career Readiness Certificate (NCRC), which measures and certifies the skills needed to succeed in jobs across different industries and occupations. We also use the NCRC to identify suitable candidates for our WIOA training programs. Learn more about ACT WorkKeys for Job Seekers and refer to the FAQs below for additional information.

Learn More
  • How can I sign up to take sign up to take the WorkKeys NCRC assessment?

    Call 419.213.JOBS (5627) or walk into our OhioMeansJobs Center. Let the staff know you are interested in WorkKeys, and they will help get you started on the process.

  • What do I need to bring with me when I come to take the WorkKeys NCRC assessment?

    All you need to bring is yourself, a photo ID and the confidence to know you’ll do great!

  • When can I take the WorkKeys NCRC assessment?

    Proctored assessments are currently scheduled on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays starting at 1:00 p.m. It may be possible to arrange an alternate day and time that fits your needs. You can call 419.213.JOBS (5627).

  • How long do each of the sections of the WorkKeys NCRC assessment take and do we get any breaks?

    Each section of the assessment (Workplace Documents, Graphic Literacy, and Applied Math) takes about 55 minutes, and there is a break between sections.

  • How long before I get the results of my WorkKeys NCRC assessment?

    You will get your results immediately upon completing the assessments, as well as a copy of your scores in each section. Your actual certificate will arrive in the mail approximately two weeks after you take the assessment.