The Workforce Investment Act (WIA) is a comprehensive approach that provides workforce investment activities through statewide and local systems. Authorized workforce investment activities provided at the local level benefit job seekers, dislocated workers, youth, incumbent workers, new entrants to the workforce, veterans, persons with disabilities, and employers.
These activities promote an increase in the employment, job retention, earnings, and occupational skill attainment by participants. This improves the quality of the workforce, reduces welfare dependency, and enhances the productivity and competitiveness of the nation.
The Governor appoints a State Workforce Investment Board (SWIB) consisting primarily of representatives from private industry, labor organizations, educational institutions, and community organizations. The SWIB assists the Governor in developing a statewide plan and establishing appropriate program policy.
The 50 Local Workforce Investment Areas (LWIA) administer WIA services as designated by the Governor. The factors considered in designating these LWIAs include geographic location, population, and commonality of labor market areas. The Chief Elected Official (CEO) of each LWIA appoints a Local Workforce Investment Board (LWIB) with a local membership similar to the SWIB. The LWIB develops and submits a local area plan to the Governor, designates One-Stop operators, and selects eligible providers for youth and adult services. In cooperation with the CEO, the LWIB establishes an advisory Youth Council to provide expertise in developing youth policy.
Benefits
Job Seekers
- Universal access to job search and labor market information
- Relevant advice, counseling, and support
- Education and skills training
Youth
- Basic skills assessment
- Resources and direction to attain educational goals
- Leadership development opportunities
- Exposure to work environment through training and adult mentoring
Business
- Improved and trained client pool
- Development of on-the-job and customized training opportunities
- Assistance for dislocated workers
Community
- Access to local area job market information
- Improved workforce quality
- Services designed for local area needs
Services Available
These services are available to all adults age 18 years or older and are free of charge.
- Job search and placement assistance (including career counseling)
- Labor market information (which identifies job vacancies; skills needed for in-demand jobs; and local, regional, and national employment trends)
- Initial assessment of skills and needs
- Information about available services
- Follow-up services to help customers keep their jobs once they are placed