Training

In a constantly changing work environment, the key to landing a good job is having the right skills at the right time. CareerWorks can help you identify training and education programs that are right for you. Currently CareerWorks oversees several state & federal programs targeted to assist dislocated and economically disadvantaged job seekers with their reemployment and training needs.

Training funds may be available to you if you meet eligibility criteria under the Trade Adjustment Assistance (TAA) program, the National Emergency Grants (NEG), the Workforce Investment Act (WIA), the Education Rewards Loan Program, and the Federal/State Financial Aid (Pell Grants, Scholarships and Stafford Loans).

Frequently asked questions about training

Q: What kind of training do you offer?
A: CareerWorks does not provide training. However, we conduct the screening needed to determine if you are eligible for training grants, and to help you identify an appropriate training program. CareerWorks offers in-house workshops that help you in the job search process, and that are listed on our CareerWorks Calendar.

Q: Is training available to everyone?
A: No. Training funds are based on availability, individual need and income guidelines. Note: Job seekers who lack marketable skills, need to upgrade their skills, or are economically disadvantaged, are most in need.

Q: How will I know if I meet the training eligibility requirement?
A: If you want to learn more about training options you should attend the Training Options Seminar offered at CareerWorks (prerequisite: Career Center Seminar). You will learn about eligibility requirements for various training programs. If you feel you meet minimum eligibility criteria and demonstrate that you need training/intensive services, you will be assigned a Career Specialist to help you evaluate your needs.

Q: How do I demonstrate that I need training?
A: There are a number of ways to show need:

Showing that you cannot get a job with your current skills.
Showing that you are not physically able to do the type of work for which you are currently trained.
Showing that the training you want will enhance your chances of securing employment.

Q: What is the difference between being eligible for training and being approved for training?
A: Being eligible means you have met the eligibility criteria set forth in Title I of the Workforce Investment Act, which is available on the Department of Labor (DOL) web site, and is discussed at the Training Options Seminar at CareerWorks. Being approved for training means that:

1) You demonstrated a need for training/intensive services.
2) You completed all required research.
3) Training funds are available.
4) You received formal notice to proceed.

Q: If I meet the eligibility criteria, am I guaranteed to receive training funds?
A: No. If program funds are not available, you will not be able to enter a training program even though you may be eligible (unless you have other means of paying for the training). However, you may be placed on a waiting list to participate in training when additional funds become available.

Q: How long will it take before I can start a training program?
A: It can take from 4-6 weeks from your first meeting with a Career Specialist to receiving your Notification of Approval to enter a training program.

Q: What is the maximum amount that could be awarded for training?
A: The maximum that can be paid for a training program using WIA Title I Funds is $3,250. The maximum dollar amount allowed under the other programs varies.

Q: How will I know what training is available?
A: The process of identifying training is very self-directed. Two useful website are Massachusetts Career Information System and Massachusetts JobQuest. Think about the type of job you want and the skills required to do that job. You can attend a Career Exploration workshop to assist you with this research or you can access the web sites above to find out who offers the training you are looking for.

Q: What is the difference between a workshop and training?
A: A workshop is a one-time, two-hour free information session offered by CareerWorks staff to help you in the employment process. Training is an instructed program designed to develop job competence and often is a course or class held at a school of higher learning. With training there are a set number of hours per week you must attend and a certificate of completion and/or college credit is granted upon completion.