About WIA

The Workforce Investment Act of 1998 (WIA) established a One-Stop system for adults and dislocated workers¹ (including displaced homemakers²) ages 18 and older to receive core, intensive or training services. Core services consist of information and resource tools available at the One-Stop centers to assist job seekers in achieving their employment goals. Core services are intended to be self-directed and user friendly. Intensive and Training Services are provided to individuals in need of staff assistance and can include specialized assessments, case management, short-term training, and other services as described below.

To access the Workforce Investment Act Program and Services:

The customer's first step is Core Services. Core Services are self-directed activities that are customer driven and include activities such as creating resumes, or cover letters, seraching and applying for jobs, attending job fairs, or seeking information on and applying for other needed One-Stop programs.

CORE SERVICES

Core Services may be the only service you need if:

You are able to successfully conduct job search activities. With little to no help, you are able to operate a computer in order to create resumes and cover letters, able to navigate the Internet to apply for jobs, etc.

You meet the minimum requirements for the job. Your skills and qualifications are a match to the job and you are able to pass any pre-employment activities such as drug tests, criminal background and/or credit checks.

Personal matters do not affect your ability to work. You have reliable transportation, childcare, etc.

As you participate in Core Services to look for work, we recommend that you use the following job search resources:

SC Job Link - a website administered by the SC Employment Security Commission. Workers my conduct pre-employment activities, search for jobs, and apply for initial unemployment benefits.

SC Virtual One-Stop System - a website administered by the SC Department of Commerce and the Workforce Investment Act (WIA) program. Workers may conduct pre-employment activities, search for jobs, and pre-register for the WIA program in the event that future Training Services are needed.

Job Fairs - One-Stop hosts job fairs and special recruitment events for local employers. Informational flyers will be posted within the One-Stop Center to announce these events.

We also recommend using other Core Services such as:

Labor Market Information - researching employment patterns and trends will help you choose a demand occupation and to project future training needs.

Self-Assessments - using computerized and Internet-based programs to help determine your basic skill levels and career interests.

WIA Eligibility Determination - in the event you need staff to help with your job search or require Training Services, applying for the WIA program as a Core Service will save you time in the long run. A copy of the WIA Application and Instructions may be obtained from the One-Stop Center.

Free Workshops - sign up to attend workshops and networking opportunities. Career topics are covered such as job search techniques, credit counseling, financial planning, etc.

INTENSIVE SERVICES

If you are not able to successfully find a job after using the available Core Services, then Intensive Services may be provided through the WIA program. A WIA Career Specialist will be assigned to help you plan for and participate in a combination of activities leading to employment such as:

Pre-employment workshops - seminars and classroom instruction on topics such job hunting, marketing your skills, etc.

Specialized assessments - conducting a review of your skills using tools such as evaluation tools like WorkKeys, TABE, etc.

TRAINING SERVICES

After participating in the Intensive Services and you are not able to find or keep a job, the WIA Career Specialist may recommend you for Training Services.

In general, Training Services may include activities such as basic literacy skills training (including GED), English as a Second Language (ESL), and/or vocational skills training. The WIA Career Specialist will help you to select the right training program or combination of training programs based on your needs. Vouchers will be issued to training participants to pay the costs for tuition, books, and supplies. More detail on the WIA program and requirements is addressed in the WIA Application and Instructions packet.

A statewide list of approved WIA training programs may also be viewed over the web at: http://www.sccommerce.com/wia/ServiceSearch.html

Types of WIA Training Programs:

Occupational Skills Training - classroom instruction and vocational training provided through local technical colleges and community training providers.

Work Experience - can be accompanied by Occupational Skill Training and pays an hourly stipend to assist the participant with obtaining valuable work experience.

On-the-Job (OJT) and Apprenticeship Training - this is an earn as you learn opportunity where employers hire and train eligible workers while on the job. The employer may qualify for financial incentives to reduce their cost for providing the training.

Entrepreneurial Training - a great opportunity for those who want to start their own business. Did you know that small businesses make up the majority of the companies in SC?

Contact Us

An equal opportunity employer/program. Auxiliary aids and services are available upon request to individuals with disabilities. TTY: 711