Career Training
The Heartline Education Center
At our Education Center in Port-au-Prince, Heartline provides year-round career training to adults seeking income-generating skills like computer literacy or culinary arts.
Students have the opportunity to study trades, learn skills, and expand their mastery of Haitian Creole. They study year-round in classes taught by fellow Haitians, and learn outcome-driven, employment-focused curricula designed on the ground by their teachers. We focus on offering educational options that complement a developing nation's economic landscape and challenging job market.
The Education Center was established in 2007.
Courses Offered
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This course provides an introduction to the fundamentals of information technology (IT), covering essential concepts, skills, and applications in computing. Students will explore various aspects of IT, including computer hardware and software, networks, data management, and digital security.
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This introductory cosmetology course provides students with a foundational understanding of beauty and skincare practices, emphasizing both the theory and the practical skills essential for a career in the beauty industry. Through hands-on training and demonstrations, students will explore various aspects of cosmetology, including hair care, skincare, makeup application, and salon professionalism. Students graduating this course will have an opportunity to feature their work in a Heartline sponsored student expo.
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This course is designed to explore the art and techniques of decorative crafting, providing students with the skills and creativity to design and create beautiful handmade crafts. Through a series of hands-on projects and guided instruction, students will learn various crafting techniques and become familiar with the materials and tools needed to produce decorative items: for personal use, as products to be sold, or as gifts. Emphasis will be placed on developing craftsmanship, creativity, and an appreciation for handmade arts.
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This cooking class is designed to introduce students to the art and science of cooking; students will learn fundamental techniques, expand their ingredient knowledge, and create traditional Haitian meals alongside dishes from other culinary traditions. This course will provide hands-on experience and practical knowledge. Students will additionally learn table presentation, etiquette and basic service skills.
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This driver's education course is designed to equip students with the essential knowledge, skills, and attitudes necessary to become safe and responsible drivers.
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This ESL course is designed to help non-native English speakers develop and improve their proficiency in the English language across all skill areas: speaking, listening, reading, and writing. This course caters to individuals at different proficiency levels, from beginners to intermediate learners.
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This course serves as an introduction to the fundamental principles and practices of electrical systems and technology. Aimed at individuals interested in pursuing a career in electrical engineering, maintenance, or construction trades, this course provides foundational knowledge in electrical theory, circuitry, components, and safety procedures.
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This course provides an introduction to the foundational principles and practices of plumbing, preparing students for entry-level positions or for further education and apprenticeship opportunities.
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This course is designed to empower Haitian adults with foundational literacy skills in Haitian Creole: enabling them to bettter navigate everyday tasks, communicate effectively, and participate more fully in their communities.
Students will engage in activities that promote reading comprehension, writing proficiency, and oral communication skills. The course will emphasize practical applications of literacy skills relevant to daily life, work environments, and personal development.
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This course is designed to provide students with a foundational understanding of sewing techniques and skills. This class will cover essential techniques to help you start creating your own sewn projects. Through hands-on practice and demonstrations, students will learn how to operate a sewing machine, understand basic sewing terminology, and practice fundamental stitches. Additionally, the course will introduce students to essential tools and materials used in sewing, including fabrics, threads, and notions.
The advanced sewing course is designed for students who have a solid foundation in basic sewing skills and are eager to expand their knowledge and proficiency in garment construction and advanced techniques. Through a combination of guided projects and skill-building exercises, students will refine their sewing skills, explore complex garment construction techniques, and gain confidence in tackling more challenging sewing projects. The course will emphasize precision, creativity, and attention to detail in garment making. Students graduating this course will have an opportunity to feature their work individually or collaboratively with other students in a Heartline sponsored fashion show.
Outcomes
Community-Building
At the Education Center, likeminded students get to spend time with their cohort and with accomplished professionals in their chosen trades. The value of this communal time is immeasurable and provides an intangible benefit on top of the hard skills students learn and economic impact they experience.
Family Preservation
In Haiti, the vast majority of children in orphanages have at least one living parent. But many families living in poverty relinquish their children to orphanages, hoping that they will be better provided for there. That’s almost never the case.
The increased financial security Education Center graduates experience help keep their families stable and together. The wages and benefits we pay our Education Center staff do the same for them.
Economic Security
Education Center graduates have increased income potential and self-confidence.
In an unstable economy like Haiti’s, having income-generating skills of your own without depending on an unreliable employer is invaluable.
Gender Equity
USAID reports that the average Haitian woman over 15 years old has completed less than four years of formal schooling. Illiteracy among this group nears 42%. Only one Haitian woman is enrolled in postsecondary education for every three men.
At Heartline, we believe removing educational barriers for girls & women is an act of revolution – setting the stage for the future of an entire nation. The vast majority of our students are young women, who are getting an education at heavily subsidized rates, a precious rarity in Haiti.
Entepreneurship
Graduates of the Education Center primarily employ their skills to start small enterprises of their very own, meeting the financial needs of their families and offering useful services in their home communities.
Job Creation
The Education Center is staffed entirely by Haitian educators and support staff. We’re proud to employ over 70 Haitian men & women, 24 of whom make up the Education Center team.
Some of these team members started at the Education Center as students themselves – a point of pride, as the Center becomes a pipeline of education and long-term employment.