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Participants may require specific training or skill-building opportunities to prepare for their desired careers. A variety of community programs are available to help them gain the necessary knowledge, including short-term training, occupational skill development, and internships. Many of these opportunities are either free or have funding and sponsorship options available. Explore the options below to learn more about what is available to participants.
WorkSource Scholarships for Workforce Preparation and Occupational Training
WorkSource Scholarships for Workforce Preparation and Occupational Training
WorkSource offers funding for two types of training for participants funded by federal, state, or other public and private grants: workforce preparation activities and occupational skill training. To be eligible for funding opportunities, participants must have completed their WorkSource registration and meet the eligibility criteria for the specific scholarship funds used.
Workforce Preparation Activities
The first type of training WorkSource supports is workforce preparation activities, which are short training sessions often required for specific positions (i.e., forklift certification, flaggers certification, CPR, food handlers card, OSHA safety training, etc.). They typically take a day or a weekend to complete. If a participant is interested in having one of these trainings funded, they should first make sure they have a current WorkSource registration. Then, they should find the training provider they would like to go to and then send an email request to the WorkSource Liaison or the WorkSource Skillsteam with the following information:
The name of the training, the training provider and the website information.
Some centers may request a completed Training Provider Worksheet.
A tuition cost itemized sheet or screenshot/picture of the cost.
To aid in determining if training is appropriate for funding.
A description of why they need the training and how it supports their career goals.
A copy of their Career Map and Career Plan.
A copy of their Prosperity Planner.
In the subject line of the email, write “Workforce Preparation request for APN Customer” and add the participant’s Job Seeker ID (JSID).
The Skillsteam will then determine if they have the funding available to meet the participant's request, and if there is funding, the Skillsteam will pay for the training. Most centers will pay the training provider directly.
*Please contact your WorkSource Liaison if you or your participant are making a request, if either of you is uncertain about how to proceed with any of these steps, or if you are unsure whether the training qualifies as Workforce Preparation or Occupational Skills Training.
WorkSource Scholarships for Occupational Training
The second funding available is WorkSource ITA Scholarships, which provide financial assistance for participants seeking occupational training in specific target industries. To be eligible, the training must be listed on the Eligible Training Providers list (ETPL). Coaches should familiarize themselves with ETPL offerings to help participants identify eligible training programs that align with their career goals.
Once a participant selects an eligible training, they must complete and submit the ITA Scholarship Application to the Skillsteam or a WorkSource Liaison at least 2 weeks before the training begins, though 3-4 weeks is recommended. WorkSource cannot fund training that has already started.
After approval, WorkSource staff and coaches will continue to support participants in achieving training milestones and progressing toward their career objectives. It is important to note that due to limited funds, WorkSource may not be able to cover the full cost of training, even for eligible programs. To learn more about this process and how to apply, please see our ITA Application Scholarship Process Guide.
Short-Term Trainings
Short-Term Trainings
These short-term, cohort-based trainings are free for WorkSource enrolled participants. They prepare individuals for careers in banking, healthcare, IT, and more, typically taking 12 weeks or less. These programs are great for participants who want to move into a career quickly and cannot commit to long-term training.
Eligibility for the programs vary. Screening and eligibility are often done after the interest forms are completed. See the Google Sheet below for the list of no-cost short-term cohort training.
Stipend Training and No Cost Trainings with Employers
Stipend Training and No Cost Trainings with Employers
These trainings are free to the public and offer another option for participants to earn while learning or to partner with a company for potential employment after training. Participants can gain hands-on experience, earn a certificate of completion, or obtain a license to work in the field. See the Google Sheet and embedded attachments for up-to-date information on each free or low-cost training.
Apprenticeship Training Opportunities
Apprenticeship Training Opportunities
Below are opportunities for participants to enter training programs that prepare them for a career in the skilled trades. The careers, like welding, electrical work, and carpentry, are hands-on and typically require manual skills and specialized training.
Pre-Apprenticeships
A pre-apprenticeship program is a structured training course designed to prepare individuals for entry into an apprenticeship. It provides foundational knowledge and skills relevant to a specific trade or industry, helping participants understand the work involved and increasing their chances of securing an apprenticeship position. For example, a pre-apprenticeship program in electrical work might include coursework on basic electrical theory, safety practices, and tool usage. Additionally, participants would receive hands-on training, such as wiring circuits and installing electrical fixtures, giving them a practical introduction to their chosen field and helping them develop the basic skills needed to start an apprenticeship.
Pre-apprenticeship programs typically combine classroom instruction with practical experience, ensuring that participants are well-prepared for the demands of an apprenticeship. Moreover, these programs often include career readiness components, such as resume building, interview preparation, and networking opportunities with industry professionals. Completing a pre-apprenticeship demonstrates commitment and preparedness, making a well-qualified and motivated candidate who will stand out to unions, thereby greatly enhancing a participant's prospect of being selected for an apprenticeship position.
See the Google Sheet below for a list of pre-apprenticeship Programs.
Apprenticeships
An apprenticeship is a training program that combines on-the-job learning with classroom instruction. By design, it provides individuals, known as apprentices, with hands-on experience in a specific trade, profession, or skill set under the guidance of experienced professionals, known as mentors or journeyworkers.
Apprenticeships offer a valuable opportunity for participants to gain practical skills, industry-recognized credentials, and real-world experience while earning a wage. These programs typically vary in length, depending on the industry and the complexity of the skill being taught, and often result in apprentices obtaining a certification or qualification upon successful completion. Many registered apprenticeship programs are open to applicants and allow any interested person to submit applications for selection—most of the traditional construction trades use this system. Other programs are employer-sponsored and select apprentices only from a pool of existing employees—most industrial trades use this system.
Who Would Be a Good Fit for an Apprenticeship?
Motivated Individuals: Those who are eager to learn and are committed to developing their skills over several years.
Hands-On Learners: People who prefer learning through doing, rather than through traditional classroom settings alone.
Team Players: Individuals who can work well in a team environment and are willing to take direction from more experienced professionals.
Physically Fit: Many trades require physical stamina and strength, so those who are in good physical condition may find these programs more suitable.
Problem Solvers: Apprenticeships often involve troubleshooting and resolving issues, so having a problem-solving mindset is beneficial.
Common Requirements for an Apprenticeship
Educational Background: Typically, a high school diploma or GED is required. Some programs may require specific coursework in subjects such as mathematics.
Math Skills: Basic to intermediate math skills are often necessary, with some programs requiring proficiency in algebra or geometry.
Age Requirement: Most programs require applicants to be at least 18 years old.
Physical Requirements: Depending on the trade, there may be physical requirements, such as the ability to lift a certain amount of weight or work at heights.
Aptitude Tests: Some programs require applicants to pass an aptitude test that measures basic math, reading, and mechanical comprehension skills.
Drug Screening: Many programs require applicants to pass a drug screening as part of the selection process.
Driver’s License: A valid driver’s license is often necessary, especially for trades requiring travel to various job sites.
Find additional information and apprenticeship programs on the Google Sheet below.
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