skilled workers getting job training through federal programs

Are you unemployed or underemployed? Are you being held back due to a lack of money for job training? Are you hoping to change careers or join the workforce in a skilled role? Are you a trades worker looking to elevate your career, achieve journeyman status, or obtain necessary licenses?

Many people who find themselves in these positions may think that education is impossibly expensive or too hard to access. The costs of classes can create barriers to learning, and expenses like childcare or commuting while taking classes may make this dream seem impossible.

What if we told you that there is a federally funded program that can give you financial support to accomplish your dreams? What if there was money available for people to spend on training, expenses during transitions, and expert guidance through the entire process?

Introducing: The Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act.

What is WIOA?

The Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) is a federal program designed to improve the American workforce by giving willing job seekers access to training, education, and supportive services to obtain elevated employment. This comprehensive federal program offers various forms of assistance to help workers like you gain the skills and credentials needed for better employment opportunities.

The WIOA supports the American economy by strengthening the labor market and giving employers access to trained and skilled workers. It does this by enhancing workforce development in the United States, ensuring that workers have the skills needed to meet the demands of the modern labor market.

Laborers train in new warehouse technology via WIOA funding

History and Purpose

This act was signed on July 22nd, 2015 by President Barack Obama. The bill received bipartisan support, meaning that members of Congress from both the Republican and Democratic parties voted in favor of the program.

The program was designed with two-fold benefits. First, it helps job seekers access education, training, and career support services to acquire skilled work. Secondly, it helps employers and supports the labor market and economy by providing trained employees.

The modern workforce is changing as tools, systems, and job sites become more technologically advanced. The labor market must adapt in order to keep up with demand and continue to compete with other global economies.

Who Qualifies for WIOA Funding?

Each state and local workforce development board may have specific criteria and processes for determining eligibility. Generally, applicants must provide documentation of their employment status, income level, and any barriers to employment they face.

Unemployed workers: WIOA supports individuals who are not employed and who are actively seeking employment.
Dislocated/laid-off workers: People who are unemployed due to economic factors including company closures or layoffs.
Underemployed workers: The term Underemployed refers to people whose jobs do not fully utilize their skills or provide sufficient income. These individuals may be working part-time or for low wages. WIOA may help these people gain the skills and knowledge they need to access higher-paying and more fulfilling roles.
Low-Income Individuals: People whose earnings fall below certain income thresholds are eligible for WIOA assistance to improve their economic circumstances.
Veterans and their spouses: Honoring the sacrifices made by military families, WIOA supports veterans and their spouses by granting access to resources needed to successfully transition to a civilian career.
Youth: Those aged 14-24 who are out of school and face barriers to employment may apply for support. These barriers can include being a school dropout, homeless, a foster youth, a young parent, or involved in the juvenile justice system.

State-Run Programs

Each state has its own programs for processing this federal funding and choosing where it can be spent. State agencies conduct advanced analysis of the job market and their economy’s unique needs. States set specific eligibility criteria, but generally, WIOA is intended to assist those most needing job training and employment services in the industries most in need of qualified workers.

For example, if it is found that there is a shortage of electricians in Texas, the state of Texas may choose to offer more money for job training to more people seeking training in electrical work than states where there is no shortage.

All of this is to say that every state operates this program differently! What is offered to someone in Georgia could be very different than what someone in Maryland is given. To learn about the programs available in your state, look it up here!

What types of assistance are covered?

Some main categories of assistance may include:

Career services: Job search assistance, career counseling, resume optimization, and workforce preparation exercises.
On-the-Job Training: Partnerships with employers can provide job seekers with hands-on training while getting paid.
Support services: Childcare, housing support/rent abatement, transportation costs, and needs-related financial support.
Direct educational expenses: Courses, tuition, exam costs, books

There are many types of support services depending on the situation and barriers you are experiencing. The goal of the program is to get you trained and job-ready. Best of all, you do not have to pay it back!

Examples of Program Use

A single parent is working a low-paying part-time job. They have dreams of becoming a plumber, but they can’t afford to take time off work or put their kids in daycare to get the training they need to advance in this career path. They access WIOA funding to secure reliable childcare and take classes at their local vocational school to complete their plumbing certification.

A laid-off factory worker is given WIOA funding to enroll in an electrical apprenticeship program. The funding available is enough to cover their tuition, and they are also given the money to purchase tools and transportation to apprenticeship. This person can complete their apprenticeship and earn their journeyman license. They are qualified for full-time employment as an electrician and can earn a competitive salary with job security.

Tradespeople train for certification with federal financing programs

What does this mean for people in the trades?

People looking to get into the trades or acquire elevated skills and certifications that make them eligible for employment can apply for these grants, receive money for job training, and advance their careers. There are apprenticeships, certification, licensure programs, and other means of advancing your eligibility and skills.

Whether you’re looking to become a journeyman, obtain a specific license, or improve your employability, WIOA may provide the resources and support necessary to reach your goals. By tapping into this program, you can increase your earning potential and job stability in a highly competitive job market.

This program is certainly available to people from many different industries, but we’re really into the trades so this article focuses on our favorite skills and gigs!

How to apply

Applying for a federal financial program might seem daunting, but it all starts with one easy step!

Visit Your Local American Job Center (AJC): Find your nearest AJC by visiting the CareerOneStop website. AJCs provide comprehensive services and resources to job seekers. You can also call the toll-free helpline at 1-877-US-2JOBS (TTY: 1-877-872-5627).
Meet with a Career Counselor: A program provides free sessions with a career counselor who will assess your eligibility and help you develop a personalized career plan.
Complete the Necessary Paperwork: You’ll need to provide documentation of your employment status, income, and other relevant information.
Enroll in an Approved Program: Work with your career counselor to identify and enroll in a training or certification program that aligns with your career goals.
Utilize Support Services: Take advantage of the various support services offered, such as transportation assistance or help with purchasing tools.
Land your dream job!

Conclusion

The Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act is a powerful option for trades workers hoping to begin, advance, or pivot their careers. WIOA helps you gain the skills and credentials needed to thrive in the trades by providing access to training, support services, and job placement assistance. Don’t let financial barriers hold you back—explore how WIOA can support your journey to a fulfilling career in the trades!

Federal Funds for Job Training and Career Advancement: WIOA