Training is the key to obtaining better job opportunities and higher wages. If you are interested in developing the skills needed to succeed in a fulfilling career, check at your local Workforce Center.

 There are many  programs and services offered through the Workforce Investment Act (WIA) available to eligible employed, underemployed and unemployed youth, adults and workers affected by lay-offs (dislocated workers). Please contact your nearest center for eligibility requirements.

Services may include:

• Occupational Skills Training: Acquiring or upgrading skills in an approved program provided by an educational institution. Funding is provided through the Workforce Investment Act.  For a list of high demand occupations in Milwaukee, Waukesha, Ozaukee and Washington counties or for a list of approved training programs provided at the three local technical colleges, contact you local center.  
• On-the-Job Training: Training provided by a new employer while you receive a paycheck. At the end of the training, employers must provide participants with long-term employment with wages, benefits and working conditions equal to regular employees. Funding is provided through the Workforce Investment Act.
• Customized Training: Training is designed to meet the special requirements of an employer, or a group of employers, who are committed to employ the participant upon completion of the training. Funding is provided through the Workforce Investment Act.
• Apprenticeships: Learning a trade while being paid.
• Adult Education and Literacy Training: Individualized, small group and classroom instruction to improve reading, writing, math and/or other basic skills.
• High School Completion programs: Preparation to pass the High School Equivalency Diploma (HSED) requirements or the General Education Development (GED) testing (if over 18 and out of school).
• English as a Second Language: English instruction to read, write, communicate and solve problems at a level necessary to function on the job, school or in society. Information is available by calling (262) 521-5190 or (262) 335-5775.
• Trade Adjustment Assistance: Training for workers who lost their jobs or whose hours of work and wages are reduced as a result of increased imports or shifts in production to foreign countries.

Other services available to eligible youth (between the ages of 16 and 21)

• Internships: Getting hands-on training by working with an employer in the private sector. The internship may be combined with classroom training or basic skill instruction tailored to the career goals of the youth. Funding provided through the Workforce Investment Act.
• Paid Work Experience: Engaging in short-term employment to gain competency and skills. Funding provided through the Workforce Investment Act.
• Cooperative Education: WCTC’s Co-op is an educational program that gives students the opportunity to gain practical paid work experience in their areas of study. Participating businesses and agencies provide a supervised learning environment.