Training Services

In order to be considered for Occupational Training Assistance Funds, the following
steps must first be completed.

1. You must be eligible for our services before training assistance may be awarded. An Eligibility Referral Specialist will assist in this determination. You will be asked to complete the application process and provide documentation as needed.
2. Muskingum County Opportunity Center will fund only Demand Occupational Fields that will likely lead to Self Sufficiency. Check with your training facility for job placement and wage information. Labor market information is also available in the Resource Room. Our staff will gladly assist you.
3. Muskingum County Opportunity Center will fund only those training programs currently on the State of Ohio WIA Eligible Training Provider List. This list is posted on-line at: https://ohiomeansjobs.com/etpo/.
4. You will be asked to verify that you have applied for other sources of student financial aid. If applicable, the Muskingum County Opportunity Center requires that you complete and submit the FAFSA (Financial Aid Form). Contact the Financial Aid Office at the training facility that you will attend for assistance.

In addition:

1. Since most training fields, and many occupations, require that you have a high school diploma or GED, the Muskingum County Opportunity Center may require that you provide this verification. Exceptions will be considered on a case-by-case basis.
2. In order to receive training assistance, candidates will be required to demonstrate that they are currently employed, or that they are volunteering in an occupation related to that which they wish to pursue training. Exceptions may be made for dislocated workers.
3. Candidates will be required to take the TABE test, as administered by the Muskingum County Opportunity Center. Candidates are required to achieve scores, in the Reading and Mathematics sections of the TABE, that demonstrate an academic level consistent with their field of study*. Candidates receiving less than acceptable scores on either, or both, sections will not be considered for classroom training assistance.
4. If applicable, proof of acceptance into the training field.

* A minimum of 10.0 in (both) Reading and Mathematics is considered acceptable for candidates pursuing WIA training dollars.

Once the candidate has provided this documentation, the candidate’s Case Manager will present the request for training assistance to the Case Management Team. The Case Management Team will approve or deny the request. The Case Manager will inform the candidate of the Team’s decision.

How our Training Assistance Funds Work

Our Occupational Training Assistance Funds are designed to help you get the
training you need to be competitive in today’s job market. Here’s how:

• We may provide help towards your tuition. Award amounts are determined on an individual basis after actual costs and other financial aid is considered.
• We may be able to help with the cost of textbooks, uniforms and supplies that are required for your training.
• We assist with end of training testing and licensure fees.
• Additionally, we may be able to assist with your transportation expenses.
  

And, we will continue to help after you complete your training.

• Through our Resource Center, we can provide you with job leads, access to computers for resume updates and job search, and referrals to other community resources.
• Our staff is available to answer your specific job search questions.
• If needed, you may participate in a Job Search Workshop to develop skills in interviewing, completion of applications, resume development and much more.
  

We won’t forget about you once you are employed.

Our staff is required to maintain contact with you for one year after obtaining employment. The Muskingum County Opportunity Center wants to be a continuing resource for you. You may be given opportunities to attend informational seminars, support group meetings and other functions. You will be given opportunities to evaluate the services that you have received and to make suggestions for improvement. You will have a chance to ask questions and discuss your new job.