Job Training and Adult Education
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
Question: What types of education and training programs are available for adults seeking to improve their job skills?
Answer: A variety of options are available to adults. They include:
- Apprenticeship training in various occupations through a combination of supervised on-the-job instruction and related classroom instruction
- On-the-job Training, training provided at the work-site that ranges from a month to over one year and is sometimes provided along with classroom training
- Pre-employment training is provided directly to a labor pool in order to help them qualify for jobs in advance of becoming employees
- Vocational education or career and technical education, the majority of which is provided at the high school level and by community colleges
- College education, typically this is a four year program that grants the student a bachelor's degree at the completion of study
Question: How can I find out about educational and training opportunities in my state?
Answer: The Career One Stop Center is a collection of nationwide employment and career information on the Internet that provides links to education and training opportunities, testing and assessment, and certification requirements.
America’s Service Locator, a web site operated by the U.S. Department of Labor, can help you identify the one-stop center closest to you. You will be asked to enter your ZIP code and/or city and state. You can then choose from the type of service (education and training, job search, etc.) you need and a list of contacts will be provided. For direct assistance, call 877.US.2JOBS (877.872.5627).
See the Rural Assistance Center's Health Education Financial Aid topic guide for locating education fellowships as well as funding for pursuing higher education.
Question: How do I find information about transportation programs in my area that will assist in getting to work?
Answer: Information on transportation options should be available at local human service offices, local transit authorities, community and faith-based organizations, and regional planning organizations. Contact your local county social service agency, your community action agency, and/or call 2-1-1 if this service is available, to find out what programs are in your area. If at the local level you are not finding out sufficient information call your state RTAP office. For additional information about transportation issues in rural areas see RAC's Transportation topic guide.
Question: What funding sources are available to support job retention and advancement?
Answer: States generally fund employed worker training programs from two or more offices, including those responsible for workforce development, economic development, and TANF education and training funds; most of these offices coordinate their training efforts formally and informally. Temporary Assistance to Needy Families (TANF), and funding through the Workforce Investment Act (WIA) can support services and programs that promote job retention and career advancement. TANF agencies have the flexibility to extend eligibility for work supports and employment related activities to all low-income families, not just welfare recipients. TANF funds can be used to support post-employment services, job training, and tuition assistance. WIA funds can be used to support on-the-job training, customized training, and incumbent worker training through the development of individual training accounts.
Information regarding other sources of funds available to support job retention and advancement programs may be available from the county social service agency, the local community action program, and the county extension office. Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) funds may be used in conjunction with economic development activities. In addition, most states have state-funded incumbent worker programs, which are financed through state general fund appropriations, the unemployment insurance program, and the sale of bonds or a combination of funds.
Credits
Last revised 01/31/2012
