Workforce Investment Act (WIA)

Description The Workforce Investment Act (WIA) is an employment and training program that emphasizes rapid job attainment with post-employment services designed to grow income through the development of the job skills needed to obtain a first job, grow to full-time employment, and move up the career ladder. Adult and dislocated workers have universal access to core employment assistance services such as job search, placement assistance, labor market information, and career guidance through One-Stop Career Centers. Customers may receive more intensive counseling, assessment, and career planning services if they are unable to get a job through core services. If customers are unable to get or keep a job through intensive services, they may be eligible for skills training in occupations responsive to local labor market demands.

Who’s Eligible
Core services are universally accessible to anyone needing assistance in seeking employment or upgrading current employment or who has been laid off and is unlikely to return to his/her previous occupation. Intensive and training services are available on a priority basis to low income and TANF recipients.

The Process
WIA is administered locally through the Workshop Investment Areas (http://www.ldol.state.la.us ). Job Seekers and/or Employers interested in one-stop services should contact their local Workforce Investment Board or One-Stop Career Center identified on this listing.

Training Locations
Training is provided by educational institutions such as technical colleges, proprietary schools, parish school boards, community-based organizations, community colleges, and state universities on the WIA eligible provider list through the use of training vouchers. General information and a scorecard on training providers is located here.

Older Workers Job Seekers age 55+ are encourage to seek services through the one-stop centers and through your local older worker program.