Leaves are falling in the world of WIA

HomeLeaves are falling in the world of WIA

Leaves are falling in the world of WIA

It may be May, but to paraphrase Led Zeppelin, leaves are fallin’ all around, it’s time you were on your way!

Which means that if you’re interested in getting Workforce Investment Act (WIA) Classroom Training funds for post-secondary educational programs that start this fall, it’s time for you to be on your way in the process now!

Through the WIA, Charlotte Works provides sponsorship for eligible and suitable clients to attend physical and/or online classes and training programs that lead to skills attainment and/or professional certification.

Although it’s spring and the grass is green, leaves are falling in the world of WIA. Fall admission deadlines at many institutions are rapidly approaching. If you’re considering enrolling in a college classroom or other training program, “you need to be taking the necessary steps now,” says Training Coordinator Jeanease Lucas.

She outlines those steps:

  • Register and build a profile on NCWorks Online.
  • Attend a general Charlotte Works orientation. (You can register on the events calendar on NCWorks Online.)
  • Attend a WIA information session to learn more about the eligibility requirements, available training options and providers and the next steps in the process, and get the documentation you’ll need to complete.

“WIA information sessions are filling up pretty quickly right now,” Lucas warns. “Keep checking the events calendar for cancellations so you can take a slot as it opens up.”

She says if you can’t attend a WIA information session by the end of June, your chances of completing the process and obtaining your training voucher for a program that begins in the fall will be slim.

“Be proactive and prepared by researching programs and schools,” advises Lucas. “Look at alternate start-dates at your preferred training provider or find an alternate provider that has a different start date.”

In addition, she suggests taking advantage of the workshops at Charlotte Works to bolster your chances of employment; specifically, she recommends a resume class or session with a resume coach and mock interviews. You can register for any workshop on NCWorks Online.

 

Things to know about WIA Classroom Training

  • You must have a minimum of a high school diploma or GED to qualify.
  • The training in which you’re interested must be “in demand” in the Charlotte area. Review our occupations-in-demand list to make sure your area of interest is on it.
  • There’s a limit to the funds you can get, both on annual and lifetime bases.
  • Funds can be used for tuition, fees, books, tools and testing and certification fees.
  • You must complete your training within six sequential semesters (two years) or less.
  • Do not register for a class or make a payment commitment before you’ve met with our WIA team and completed the enrollment process.

 

WIA Training Fast Facts

(For the program year from July 1, 2013 through April 30, 2014)

  • 656 clients served with WIA funding
  • $1,050,657 invested in training

 

Want more information about WIA training opportunities? Check out our WIA FAQs



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