Idaho makes basic Career Information System free to public

The basic service of the Idaho Career Information System is now available free to the public.

“These resources will allow all Idahoans to explore careers, find detailed information about hundreds of occupations and the training or education needed to get jobs, schools that offer the training, financial aid information and more – all at no cost,” Administrator Christie Stoll said.

Free access to the basic software for both the main system, eCIS and the CIS Junior for younger students coincides with Gov. C.L. “Butch” Otter’s proclamation declaring November 2010 as Career Development Month in Idaho, underscoring the 30th anniversary of the Idaho Career Information System. November is Career Development Month nationally.

In accessing the system at www.idahocis.org, people will be prompted to select their city and enter the corresponding zip code. The Idaho Career Information System, a division of the Idaho Department of Labor, is the only comprehensive source of Idaho-specific career information on a broad array of topics including jobs, career requirements, postsecondary schools, financial assistance, scholarships and sources of education or training needed to qualify for specific occupations.

“We felt that it was important to increase the public’s access to this invaluable tool,” Stoll said. “We’re thrilled to be able to provide a resource that helps people make informed career and educational choices.” 

 Additional financial support from the Idaho Department of Labor this year eliminated basic fees for all schools and agencies including libraries. That has now been extended to any Internet access. Options such as portfolios, administrative support services, exploration tools and modules such as the IDEAS assessment, Peterson’s Practice Tests and Dependable Strengths will continue to be available for an additional fee.

 The Idaho Career Information System is also celebrating its anniversary with the sealing of a time capsule at the Labor Department’s Boise office on Nov. 30 at 1:30 p.m.  Schools and organizations have contributed artifacts that represent Idaho’s commitment to ongoing career development and the strengthening of its work force.

The capsule, to be opened in 2030 on the system’s 50th anniversary, highlights the work of state agencies, schools and libraries in helping Idaho citizens make informed career decisions.

 The schools and sites that have continuously used the Career Information System over the last 30 years are also recognized at www.idahocis.org.

 “CIS helps people make informed career decisions,” Stoll said. “Idaho is one of the nation’s leaders in providing unprecedented access to career and education planning resources to its citizens.”