Opportunity Training Grant will Help Workers Gain Skills

The North Central Wisconsin Workforce Development Board received $87,500 from the Department of Workforce Development to implement Gov. Doyle’s Opportunity Grant Program, an initiative that is part of his Grow Wisconsin plan. The goal of the program is to help individuals not otherwise eligible for financial aid, improve their skills at technical colleges, earn certificates or degrees and pursue career pathways to better jobs in high-demand occupations, including registered apprenticeships.

Eligibility for an Opportunity Grant is two-fold.

Applicant requirements:

Must be at least 18 years old
Be employed or in temporary layoff status (with documentation) but earning an income at or below 200 percent of the Federal Poverty Guidelines
Possess a high school diploma or equivalent. (Applicant cannot possess a college degree)
Be enrolled half-time or less in technical college classes (eight credits or less)

Field of study requirements:
Occupational training must be consistent with the Workforce Development Board determined demand occupations or in support of regional sector strategies including health care, advanced manufacturing, biotechnology, information technology and energy.

Opportunity Grants can cover up to $1,000 of instructional costs and fees paid directly to the school, books and consumable supplies/materials. The grant also can provide wrap-around or support services to include the cost of uniforms, tools, licensure exam fees, transportation assistance, child care and other supports necessary for the successful participation in training.

For more information, or to apply for the Opportunity Grant, contact Jane Spencer, WIA program coordinator, North Central Wisconsin Workforce Development Board, 1121 W. Grand Ave., Wisconsin Rapids, WI 54495, 422-4701 or jspencer@ncwwdb.org.

WISCONSIN RAPIDS TRIBUNE