1. Introducing WIA Processes for WIA Grant Funded-Staff Assisted Services Program Year 7/2008 – 6/2010

2. What is the Workforce Investment Act? Federal legislation that provides funding for employment related services Administered in our area by the Charlotte Mecklenburg Workforce Development Board Goal is for individuals to become gainfully employed and self-sufficient

3. WIA Objectives Find a job Keep a job Make more money

4. Eligibility: Dislocated Worker A dislocated worker is an individual who meets one of the following categories:  Terminated/laid off or notified of lay off and  Eligible for or has exhausted Unemployment Compensation Benefits or has worked long enough to establish an attachment to the Labor Market and  Unlikely to return to his/her previous occupation or job

5. Eligibility: Dislocated Worker Also individuals who are laid off due to: Plant closures or substantial layoffs at a plant or facility  If the employer has made a general announcement that plant closure will occur within 180 days Also displaced homemakers. Individuals who have been dependent upon the income of another but who have lost that income because of unemployment, divorce, separation, disability or death.

6. Eligibility: Adult Household must meet the Federal Poverty income guidelines (If receiving public assistance you meet income guidelines) Must be a resident of Mecklenburg County Must be able, available, and looking for work

7. Training Services Information TABE test is waived for individuals who have a two or four year degree. Otherwise, the TABE is administered to assess skills in reading comprehension and problem-solving and an achievement level of 9 th grade is required. A minimum high school diploma or GED is required to qualify for training. Training must be in an Approved Curriculum for an Occupation in Demand. The local area limit for training services is established by the Board. Additional funds may be accessed for support such as books, tools, supplies, testing fees and licenses.

8. Training Services Information Training may include classroom training, internet training or on the job training. WIA funds may also be utilized for the Career Readiness Assessment. Training must be completed in six sequential semesters (2 years) or less. Individuals may be eligible to receive assistance with child care and transportation expenses during training, depending upon funding availability.

9. Required Documentation Social Security Card Drivers License or State ID with current address Proof of citizenship or right to work: birth certificate, voter’s registration card, passport, green card, or DD 214 DD 214 for Veterans Proof of Selective Service Registration for males born on or after 1/1/1960 High School or College Diploma, Degree or Transcript Results of application for financial aid.

10. Additional Documentation Dislocated Workers who have not begun to receive unemployment benefits, need letter confirming dislocation Adult Services clients must provide verification of household income for last six months OR DSS participation and program status letter

11. Training Options Academic/Classroom Training Occupations in Demand Approved Training Curricula and Vendors Training can be short term, or last up to two years Local area has set limits per year and per participant

12. Training Options OJT Utilize transferable work experience with a employer willing to train you in a new skill. WIA will reimburse an employer up to 50% of the trainee’s salary for six months. Clients need to market themselves into these opportunities and contact a WIA Counselor if there is any interest.

13. Training Options Short-term training that will upgrade your skills Training to obtain a particular certificate that will enhance your employability Courses to prepare for professional tests Exams Licenses & Certifications

14. Training Options Career Readiness Certificate A job skills assessment that measures "real world" skills that employers believe are critical to job success. These skills are valuable for any occupation, skilled or professional and at any level of education Available free of cost to individuals enrolled in WIA services A portable certificate that will enhance your marketability

15. Steps toward Academic/Classroom Training Meet with a WIA Case Manager to review your documents and eligibility status. Meet with a WIA Case Manager with three training options to explore and justification (job postings, etc.) as to why a particular training will enhance your employability. Follow your WIA Counselor's instructions regarding additional Required Documentation and process steps.

16. Steps toward Training Take Placement Tests as required by training facility Meet all documentation requirements before Vouchers and Authorizations can be issued, and before registering for class.

17. What can I do now? Apply for financial aid. REQUIRED http://www.fafsa.ed.gov http://www.cfnc.org http://www.cpcc.edu Review available training at www.ncstars.org. (Special approval is possible for programs not listed.)www.ncstars.org Visit http://online.onetcenter.org/ to research occupations, explore your interests and match your skills. Research jobs in demand and short-term training at www.cpcc.edu/changingcareers. Click on “Jobs in Demand” and research by industry. Complete the Grant Application. Collect required documentation. Visit your potential training provider. Do not register; do not sign paperwork.

18. The Next Steps, cont’d. After you submit your intake form ( as you have been instructed) you will be notified of your eligibility and an appointment scheduled with WDB/WIA staff. Bring your documents to the appointment Complete your assignment! Be sure: you have done your research and are prepared to discuss with your Case Manager three possible training options and to explain why they are a good choice for you. Consider your experience, skills, interests and industries where jobs will be available. Be able to substantiate your choices with your research, including current position postings.

19. QUESTIONS?? Reach WDB staff at smerkin@ci.charlotte.nc.us smerkin@ci.charlotte.nc.us Please fax your completed Intake to 704-336-7259