What's in a name??
The Workforce Innovation & Opportunity Act (WIOA): long name, overwhelming support, potentially amazing results for the American workforce.
In July 2014, President Obama signed into law a long overdue update to the federal job-training program known as the Workforce Investment Act of 1988. The new WIOA is designed to help job seekers access employment, education, training, and support services to succeed in the labor market and to match employers with the skilled workers they need to compete in the global economy.
Why is it important?
Helping more Americans become attached to the workforce; this Act looks to bridge the skills gap we keep hearing about in America. It can provide funding to Oklahomans who are in post-secondary training in a program that leads to industry recognized credentials. It will help job seekers and workers access employment, education, training, and support services to succeed in the labor market and match employers with skilled workers they need to compete in the global economy.
At risk youth, for the past 15 years, have depended on
funds from the Workforce Investment Act Youth program to assist them
with developing job skills, providing career guidance and funding for
school. The new WIOA provides additional funding for youth who are out
of school, determining their next steps.
The new WIOA promotes the use of career pathways and sector partnerships to increase employment for in-demand industries and occupations. States will now be required to map out how they will provide training, employment services, adult education and vocational rehabilitation through a coordinated, comprehensive system.
The Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act streamlines and modernizes the maze that was federal job-training programs so that workers can access the right training, immediately.
In short, this will ensure better career services to job seekers and federal funding for training will lead to a better, workforce in our country.
For access to these funds and services, youth between the ages of 14-21, as well as adults who need training, can contact their local Workforce Office to determine eligibility.
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