Make Job Training More Affordable with These Four Options

Education can be expensive. Too expensive. And, unfortunately, that can sometimes include job training.

But job training should be accessible and affordable for anyone who’s prepared to put in the work. That’s why we’re breaking down four ways to lessen the cost of job training that you might not already be familiar with.

GI Bill Funding

Veterans, service members, and qualified dependents are covered under the GI Bill for education benefits for a non-college degree program. That means if you fit in one of those categories you may be eligible to receive an amount equal to the in-state tuition and fees (up to the national maximum) to cover your job training costs. Only specific training programs are included but there are plenty of options such as HVAC repair, truck driving, and more, many of which are offered as job training programs at CET.

The funding you receive will depend on which school you attend, how much time you spend training, and the cost of housing based on the school’s location. For 2021, the maximum available award was almost $25,000 per year. Up to $2000 of the funds can be used for certification or licensing exams, which can quickly add up. This funding could go a long way toward making job training a more manageable option. So, if you think you might be eligible, be sure to look into the details further. You can find more information about the program on the website for the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs.

Individual Training Accounts (ITAs)

If you are currently unemployed or underemployed, you may be able to receive financial assistance to help pay for your job training through the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act. These funds come in the form of a voucher known as an Individual Training Account (ITA) that you can then use toward approved job training programs in a variety of institutions.

How these ITAs are applied will vary slightly by state local area so be sure to research the details of the funding in your area. You don’t want to miss out on money that’s available to you to help pay for job training just because you didn’t apply for it. You can read more about ITAs and how they can help you here. 

Reentry Projects Funding

Individuals who have been involved in either the adult or juvenile justice systems may be eligible for assistance paying for job training programs. As part of the US Department of Labor, the Employment and Training Administration has awarded millions of dollars in Reentry Project grants to go toward helping these individuals find meaningful employment. If you fit in one of these categories and want to find out more, you can learn more about these grants on the U.S. Department of Labor website. 

CET is proud to be open to all who are trying to better themselves and find better employment, including justice-involved individuals. Our location in Colton, CA has the highest number of re-entry students but the programs at all of our locations are available to the re-entry population. Check out our list of locations and the programs available at each here. 

Funding from Rehabilitation Services

Individuals with disabilities can benefit from the State Vocational Rehabilitation (VR) Services Program when they participate in job training programs as part of the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act of 2014. Eligibility is determined by state but generally, an individual with a disability that substantially impedes them from seeking employment and needs VR services to gain an employment outcome will be eligible for these services.

Eligible individuals will then develop an individualized plan for employment (IPE) with the help of VR staff. These IPEs can involve a variety of services and assistance but the notable inclusion is job training and education services. Check with your state for additional information if you think you may be eligible for these benefits. Recipients may also need to check which institutions/locations provide the applicable services.

Job Training Made Affordable

If you are eligible for assistance through at least one of these programs, do not hesitate to apply so that your job training can be as affordable as possible. If not, feel free to check out 3 Ways to Cover Your Trade School Costs for some more ideas on how to manage the cost of trade schools. 

And remember, job training at CET is already a very affordable option compared to other training choices so you’ll be in good shape no matter what. We hope to hear from you soon!