Virginia Career Works - Central Region

Connections to students/youth for internships and work-based learning

Virginia Career Works (VCW) serves as a comprehensive resource for students in Virginia, facilitating connections to internships and work-based learning opportunities.

Here's how VCW supports students in these areas:

• Career Centers and Local Workforce Boards
  VCW operates a network of career centers across the state, providing personalized assistance to students. These centers offer services such as resume writing guidance, interview preparation, and job search strategies. By visiting a local career center, students can receive tailored support to identify and secure internships and work-based learning positions. 
• Training for In-Demand Jobs
  Recognizing the evolving job market, VCW offers training programs aligned with high-demand industries. These programs equip students with the necessary skills and credentials to pursue internships and employment opportunities in sectors experiencing growth.
• Collaboration with Community Colleges
  VCW collaborates with Virginia's Community Colleges to provide students with access to educational resources and training programs. This partnership enables students to gain the qualifications needed for internships and work-based learning experiences, enhancing their employability. 
• Adult Education and GED Programs
  For students seeking to complete their high school education or obtain a GED, VCW offers programs that facilitate this process. By achieving these educational milestones, students become eligible for a wider range of internships and work-based learning opportunities. 
• Online Resources and Tools
  VCW leverages online platforms like the Virginia Education Wizard, which assists students in exploring career options, understanding the steps to prepare for college, and identifying suitable internships. These tools offer valuable insights and guidance for students planning their career paths.
• Career Exploration

Educational resources for how to work with students/youth

Virginia Career Works (VCW) offers a variety of educational resources and programs tailored to support students and youth in their career development.

Key offerings include:

• Youth Programs
  Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) Youth Program: This program assists eligible young adults aged 14-24 in gaining skills necessary for employment. Services encompass career development, job preparation, apprenticeship opportunities, interview coaching, training, and educational support.
  Educating Youth through Employment (EYE) Program: A six-week summer initiative that recruits, screens, and matches youth aged 16-24 with professional job opportunities, providing work experience and skill development. 
• Career Exploration and Training 
  Career Advantage Program: Designed for individuals aged 18-24, this program offers training in self-management, communication skills, goal setting, occupational research, resume writing, interview skills, and professionalism.
  Occupational Skills Training: VCW provides training in various high-demand occupations, enabling youth to acquire industry-recognized credentials and skills aligned with labor market needs. 
• Support Services 
  Tutoring and Study Skills Training: Assistance is available to help youth improve academic performance and prepare for educational milestones such as the GED.
  Leadership Development Opportunities: Programs focus on enhancing leadership abilities, financial literacy, and citizenship skills among youth participants. 
• Mentoring and Guidance
  Adult Mentoring: VCW connects youth with mentors who provide guidance, support, and encouragement to help them navigate educational and career pathways.
  Comprehensive Guidance and Counseling: Services include career counseling, academic advising, and assistance with personal development to support youth in achieving their goals. 
• Youth

Programs for employers looking to connect with your organization

Virginia Career Works (VCW) offers a comprehensive suite of services to support employers in Virginia.

Key resources include:

• Recruitment and Hiring Support 
  Job Posting and Candidate Matching: Employers can post job openings on the Virginia Workforce Connection platform, which matches job seekers with suitable positions.
  Hiring Events and Job Fairs: VCW organizes and promotes employer-sponsored hiring events at no cost, facilitating direct connections between employers and potential candidates.
• Training and Development Programs
  On-the-Job Training (OJT): VCW provides reimbursements to employers to offset the costs associated with training new employees, covering up to 50% of the wage rate during the training period.
  Incumbent Worker Training: Funding is available to help employers train existing employees, enhancing their skills and contributing to business growth. 
• Business Services and Consultation
  Business Services Teams: Regional teams offer consultations to address workforce needs, including recruitment strategies, training solutions, and labor market information.
  Labor Market Information: Employers have access to up-to-date data on economic and employment trends, aiding in informed decision-making.
• Incentive Programs
  Work Opportunity Tax Credit (WOTC): VCW assists employers in accessing federal tax credits for hiring individuals from targeted groups, reducing federal income tax liability.
  Virginia Values Veterans (V3) Program: This program offers training and certification to help employers implement best practices in recruiting, hiring, and retaining veterans. 
• Additional Support Services
  Rapid Response Services: VCW provides assistance to employers during downsizing or closures, offering services to help manage workforce transitions effectively.
  Apprenticeship Programs: Employers can develop apprenticeship programs in collaboration with VCW, combining on-the-job training with classroom instruction to build a skilled workforce. 
• Employers

Financial assistance or scholarships for work-based learning

• Youth Paid Work Experience
  Clients of the WIOA Title I youth program (ages 14 - 24) can explore a career path by spending up to 320 hours on a worksite and receive compensation through the WIOA Title I program. Participants are guided by a plan developed by the worksite, a career navigator, and the participant. Participants may be available to transition into employment with the worksite following a work experience if a position is available and the workplace considers them a good fit. Liability insurance coverage is provided during the experience, and participants are paid up to $15 per hour by the WIOA Title I operator for every hour recorded during the work experience.
  
  
• Retain Your Existing Workforce
• One Center, Many Partners Serving You