There are several programs now available to area businesses and non-profits that can help find, train and retain employees.
The programs are administered through the Western Oklahoma Workforce Development Board and is a offshoot from the Oklahoma Workforce Development and the Department of Commerce.
There are several methods to get your business staffed and that staff trained. One is the Apprenticeship Incentive Fund. Businesses and nonprofits can register with the OWD and supply certain basic information. The officers of the program are available to assist with paperwork.
The apprenticeship program must be employer-led and customized to their specific needs. Applicants will be given preference if the program can lead to a certificate or other credential the employee can use should they transition to another job or occupation. Employers must submit quarterly reports and reimbursement requests. Up to $3,000 per year per apprentice and up to three apprentices per business is available.
Training can be through partnerships with local schools, career or tech ed providers, community colleges or universities and/or expert in-house training.
There is also a work experience program. It is a structured learning experience that takes place at the workplace. The employer mentors the participant and teaches the necessary skills. The employee is provided with job needs and the WOWDB will pay 100% of the employee’s wages and workers compensation costs up to 520 hours.
There are reporting requirements with this program as well and assistance with the enrollment is available.
The Incumbent Worker Training program helps train existing employees with new skills, skill improvement, and new technology training while working toward em- employer or industry recognized credentials. The program is designed to increase the efficiency of a business while developing a highly skilled workforce, resulting in financial viability and stability.
As with the other two programs, there is assistance available with meeting requirements and paperwork compliance.
The information about these programs was brought to Watonga through the city and the Watonga Economic Development Authority – WEDA. The outlines were presented by Donna Hunter of Western Oklahoma Workforce Development Board and Joe Cox, program officer of apprenticeship with the state office of workforce development and the Oklahoma Department of Commerce.
The next information session will be at the City of Watonga Job Fair, set for March 17 at city hall, 410 W. Main Street. Both businesses who are interested in accessing the programs and residents who are in need of employment or training are encouraged to attend. Application assistance will be available on site. Job seekers may receive help with resume building and exit the job fair with a completed resume to present to prospective employers.
For more information, contact Donna Hunter at (580) 377-8552 or at wowdb.org and/or Joe Cox at (405) 301-0875 or joe.cox@okcommerce.gov