DOL-WIA promotes work-based learning programs
Work-based learning programs were introduced by Department of Labor Secretary Leila Staffler during Marianas Business Network’s mixer event last Wednesday night at Tom Yum Restaurant in San Antonio.
According to Staffler, who served as keynote speaker, the Workforce Investment Agency programs are free and designed specifically for U.S. citizens and eligible applicants.
“The biggest area I want to promote especially to small businesses is our programs related to the Workforce Investment Agency. These are work-based learning programs that are free to participate in. They are designed for U.S. citizens and U.S.-eligible applicants, but in general, their programs should feed in to each other so that U.S. business can take advantage and participate in one program, and when it’s over, transition to the next program and so on until you may be exhausted two or three years of reusing federal resources to train and develop,” said Staffler.
They consist of the Pre-apprenticeship Program, Apprenticeship Program, On-the-Job Training Program, and Work Experience and Internship Program.
The Pre-apprenticeship Program provides pre-screened, ready-to-work employees who have been trained in the special skills that employers need.
The Apprenticeship Program is an industry-driven and flexible training model that can be customized to meet the needs of businesses across multiple industries.
The On-the-Job Training Program provides reimbursements to employers to help compensate for the costs associated with skills upgrade training for newly hired employees, while the Work Experience and Internship Program consists of planned, structured learning experiences that take place in a workplace for a limited period.
According to Staffler, the Pre-apprenticeship Program currently has 64 pre-apprentices and 14 business sponsors, while the Apprenticeship Program has 30 apprentices with 10 business sponsors. It promotes traditional courses in construction, culinary, and hospitality. Students who complete these courses and earn certifications can be hired as trainees by employers. Employers can assess potential employees through internships before committing to full-time hires.
“We have courses that are designed to pass students who take classes in construction, culinary, and hospitality. If they graduate and get their certification, you as an employer, can pick them as a trainee, so you’re not committed to hiring them until their internship is over. They come work for you for a few months and you make them try different roles in your business and see where they’re best at and we pay their internships 100%.”
The apprentices, after completing the free apprentice’s program courses, are committed and reliable workers, added Staffler.
She then encourages everyone to sign up with WIA at cnmiwioa@dol.gov.mp or call (670) 488-1720/2312 to avail of their programs.
The Marianas Business Network, a community-driven consortium of small businesses on Saipan, is committed to mutual support, networking, and professional growth. With no formal membership fees, it provides a platform for business owners, freelancers, and entrepreneurs to connect and thrive.
Leila Staffler
