Do you need financial help to obtain your education, so you can secure employment?
Funding may be available for you through the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA). In addition to assisting with the cost of tuition and fees, WIOA funding may be able to assist with other supportive services such as supplies, uniforms and vaccinations. Other funding may be available to assist with services such as transportation or childcare.
Individuals who are interested in learning if they qualify for WIOA funding should contact their local area NCWorks Career Center. In Surry County, that center is located at 541 West Pine St., #300 in Mount Airy. The center is currently open by appointment only. For assistance or to schedule an appointment, call (336) 786-4169. NCWorks Career Centers also help with job placement.
Forrest Lineberry, Director of College and Career Readiness/Human Resources Development at Surry Community College, supports NCWorks as a valuable college partner.
He states, “We have had many Surry Community College students who have benefited from the WIOA funding. This service is available to students through our partnership with NCWorks. NCWorks is an important partner that helps provide financial aid services to assist our students in obtaining their education and training credentials in programs such as Nurse Aide, HVAC, Machining and Welding for sustainable employment.”
Visit surry.edu for a listing of Workforce, Technologies and Community Education (WTCE) programs. Students interested in financial help can also apply at www.surry.edu/funding.
The Piedmont Triad Regional Workforce Development Board provides oversight to local area NCWorks Career Centers, including distribution of WIOA funds in this area.
Wendy Walker-Fox, Piedmont Triad Regional Workforce Development Board Director, said, “Never before have we seen a more challenging time for the workforce in our region. Because of COVID-19, unemployment is at a record high. Employers need employees with new and unique skills. Our local community colleges play an important role in reengaging our workforce. Funding is available for such trainings, and we hope all individuals will reach out to their community colleges and NCWorks to get the training and financial support they need.”
There is no cost to apply for the WIOA Program. Anyone interested in learning more about training and various funding opportunities can contact Forrest Lineberry at Surry Community College at (336) 386-3244 or lineberryf@surry.edu.
