Rep. Sheehy reminds constituents of workforce training assistance programs

State Rep. Michael Sheehy (D-Oregon) recently announced that the Ohio Development Services Agency has opened the application process for the Ohio Incumbent Workforce Training Voucher Program, which provides direct financial assistance to train workers and improve the economic competitiveness of the state’s employers.

“I am hopeful that employers in Lucas County will take advantage of this important opportunity to grow and supplement our skilled workforce,” said Rep. Sheehy. “This program offers educational training opportunities for companies to retain and grow their existing workforce while also improving overall company competitiveness.”

Training is available in high-demand fields such as: Advanced Manufacturing, Aerospace and Aviation, Automotive Manufacturing, Automotive Technicians, BioHealth, Corporate Headquarters, Energy, Financial Services, Food Processing, Information Technology and Services, Polymers and Chemicals, Logistics, or Research and Development.  Training opportunities include, but are not limited to, operational skills training, certification processes and equipment training. Training can occur at the employer’s facility, the provider’s training facility or at a third-party site.

The Ohio Development Services Agency reimburses the employer for up to 50 percent of the eligible training costs, up to $4,000 per employee, after 1) the employer pays the full cost of the training, and 2) the employee successfully completes the training. The maximum amount an employer may qualify for in a Fiscal Year is $75,000. The company must be in operation for at least 12 months in Ohio to participate.

Eligible businesses can begin the online application process on September 26, 2016 and will have three weeks to gather the necessary information to complete their application.  The online applications will be accepted on a first-come, first- served basis and can be submitted beginning at 10:00 a.m. on October 14, 2016. 

Potential applicants can visit http://development.ohio.gov/bs/bs_wtvp.htm for more information.