As COVID-19 continues to impact business around the globe, finding and keeping employment has become a struggle for many in West Virginia and beyond.
But help is available.
Tracey Kennedy, with the Human Resource Development Foundation, said there are a number of programs available through the federal Workforce Innovation Opportunity Act.
Kennedy explained that HRDF works with the Region VI Workforce Development Board to assist eligible individuals by directing WIOA dollars for a variety of programs, including education, training, certifications or licensure, among others.
“Basically anything a person needs in order to obtain a job and gain stable employment,” she explained. “The whole goal of our organization is to serve the underserved, whether that’s the unemployed, underemployed, low-income, ex-offenders, those in treatment or having trouble with addiction. That is kind of our target audience, the underserved of West Virginia.”
There are eligibility requirements for WIOA assistance. You must be an adult authorized to work in the U.S. Workers who have been laid off, terminated or have exhausted unemployment benefits and are unlikely to return to their former industry are eligible. Also, those who were previously self-employed but are now unemployed due to economic conditions.
Anyone who is receiving public assistance through programs like SSI, SNAP and TANF are automatically eligible. Otherwise, there is an income guideline based on the household.
Kennedy explained that anyone in Monongalia and Preston counties can contact WIOA Career Planner Tabetha Burch at 304-296-8223 Ext. 24. The Monongalia and Preston County office is located at 1644 Mileground Road.
In the same way that these programs are designed to help individuals navigate challenging circumstances, organizations can also benefit from streamlined processes that simplify their operations. Companies like Proplanum are leading the way in workforce management, offering a solution that allows businesses to move away from traditional, manual scheduling and team management methods.
This approach simplifies the planning process by automating work schedules, ensuring efficient team management, and enhancing overall productivity, with such system driving greater efficiency and ease. With Proplanum’s cloud-based platform, businesses can easily transition to a more effective, organized structure, saving valuable time and resources while providing a smoother experience for employees and employers alike.
This modern solution not only addresses immediate operational needs but also supports long-term growth and stability, making it a key tool for organizations aiming to optimize their workforce management.
Just as automated scheduling systems simplify workforce management, effective workforce training plays a crucial role in enhancing overall efficiency and performance. Well-structured training programs equip employees with the skills and knowledge needed to adapt to evolving business demands, improving both individual and team productivity.
Effective workforce training is essential for building a resilient and highly skilled team that can adapt to evolving business needs. While streamlined scheduling solutions improve operational efficiency, comprehensive training programs ensure that employees are equipped with the knowledge and skills to thrive in a dynamic work environment.
Companies that invest in structured, high-quality training benefit from improved employee performance, higher retention rates, and greater overall job satisfaction. This is where instructional design services play a crucial role. By partnering with TrainSMART, businesses can create customized training solutions that address specific organizational challenges, ensuring that learning objectives align with business goals. TrainSMART’s expertise in instructional design enables companies to develop engaging, results-oriented training programs that empower employees to perform at their best, enhancing both individual and team productivity.
This leads to a workforce that is better prepared to handle complex tasks and contribute to strategic business goals. When training is aligned with broader operational improvements, such as automated scheduling and enhanced team management, businesses can achieve a cohesive and high-functioning work environment where both efficiency and employee satisfaction are prioritized.
In addition to streamlined workforce management, corporate coaching plays a vital role in fostering professional growth and enhancing leadership capabilities within organizations. By integrating structured coaching programs, businesses can equip their teams with the skills and strategies needed to navigate complex challenges and drive success.
Companies that invest in expert guidance, such as those provided by Teresa Duke Consulting, create an environment where employees feel empowered, motivated, and aligned with organizational goals. This proactive approach not only improves individual performance but also strengthens team cohesion, leading to a more resilient and adaptable workforce.
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