Tennessee Career Centers

WIA Training And Education Services

TN Career Center Customer Scholarship/Individual Training Account (ITA)

Steps for Getting Into Workforce Investment Act (WIA) Funded Training

Meet with a Career Advisor at the TN Career Center that serves your county to determine:

IF you qualify for funding for school/training.
WHAT your training options and/or limitations may be.
Complete a skills assessment (may include reading/math testing, interests aptitudes and other tests to determine which careers and/or jobs might be a good match for you.)

Research your career goals. Computer software (available on computers in the Career Center) can help you with your research. Look for:

Availability of jobs in your chosen field.
Wages you can realistically expect in the profession.
Growth expectations for the occupation.
Training and certifications required for employment in the field.

Review the training options in choosing the school/training provider. Investigate:

WIA funded training is on the TN Eligible Training Provider List. http://www.tennesseeanytime.org/wiaetpl/
That the training is sufficient to qualify you for employment in your target field.
Whether fees for required licenses or certifications are covered expenses.
If you will be able to attend the classes on the days/times scheduled.
How long the school/training will last from start to completion.
Financial planning for income during your retraining period. Keep in mind that your tuition, books and supplies are paid for through WIA training.
A visit to the training institution may be in order prior to making your final decision. Look over the facility and talk to some of the instructors.

Select your career goal and your training provider. Then:

Apply for financial aid, such as PELL and/or HOPE grants if they apply to your training program.

During your training, maintain monthly contact with your Career Advisor about your progress. Within 30 days of completing your training, contact your Career Advisor to begin job search preparation. Complete your training as well as any required testing for licenses and/or certifications. Begin your job search immediately and contact your Career Advisor if you need additional assistance. Check in with your Career Advisor every three months for a year after training with your progress.

Things to Remember:

1. Do not attend classes that you expect to be paid for by WIA funding until your training plan is completed, signed and approved by you and your Career Advisor.

2. Consult with your Career Advisor before signing any loan applications or contracts.

4. This program does not provide direct reimbursement to the student.

5. Once you have completed your training and begun your new career, keep in touch with your Career Advisor regarding your employment status.