Located in:
- Program-specific Requirements for Adult, Dislocated Worker, and Youth Activities under Title I-B
The Unified or Combined State Plan must include the following with respect to activities carried out under subtitle B—
b. 1. Work-Based Training Models
If the State is utilizing work-based training models (e.g. on-the-job training, incumbent worker training, transitional jobs, and customized training) as part of its training strategy and these strategies are not already discussed in other sections of the plan, describe the State’s strategies for how these models ensure high quality training for both the participant and the employer.
Current Narrative:
Work-based learning (WBL) aligns traditional classroom learning and technical workplace learning. The alignment of employer needs and education allows participants to increase their employability skills as their experience in the academic setting and real-world work environment. All work-based learning programs enhance the support and learning of participants through mentorship. Workforce services engage specific target populations to build talent pipelines that meet employer demand and collaborate with partner agencies, education providers and local workforce development regions to align training options with work-based learning activities.
The state currently implements WBL through registered apprenticeships, registered youth apprenticeships, pre-apprenticeship programs, work experience internships, transitional jobs, on-the-job training (OJT), customized training and incumbent worker training.
Missouri Job Centers will provide access to training services that are aligned with regional sector strategies. These services may include occupational skills training, on-the-job training, incumbent worker training, skill upgrading and retraining, entrepreneurial training, transitional jobs training, job readiness training provided in combination with other training, registered apprenticeship, Adult Education and Literacy (AEL) activities, and customized training.
Work-based training is one of the highest priorities for Missouri under WIOA. The underlying advantage of work-based learning is that it incorporates skill competencies needed by employers. There is no doubt the trainees are learning the specific skills needed, and how to apply skills in the way the employer prefers. This ensures individuals completing training are positioned to immediately add value in the workplace and have marketable skills to provide upward mobility in a career pathway.
The partnerships developed through work-based training models ensure that the workforce system is offering high-quality customer service to employers, workers and jobseekers. The Show-me Heroes OJT Program assists veterans and spouses who have exited the military or returned from deployment to obtain employment. Transitional jobs are reserved for those chronically unemployed and provide real life work experience when it is greatly needed to be successful in the workplace. The Incumbent Worker training policy allows local Boards the flexibility to provide Incumbent Worker Training to employers when needed.