MSCC to Participate in Veteran Training/Education Initiative

Mid-South Community College, in conjunction with the Arkansas Department of Workforce Services, Arkansas Association of Two-Year Colleges, ARVets, and the Arkansas Apprenticeship Coalition, is participating in the Arkansas Veterans Education and Training Partnership project.

The AVETP effort will provide financial resources to a minimum of 450 veterans entered into industry-recognized training programs for targeted renewable and energy-efficiency industries, healthcare professions, and other occupations identified as high-demand employment fields in the state.

Initiative funding comes from a $1.25 million Veterans’ Workforce Investment Program grant from the U.S. Department of Labor. The DOL awarded 11 competitive grants totaling $11.53 million to state and local workforce investment boards, public agencies and nonprofit organizations (including faith-based and community organizations) in 10 states.

“These funds will help veterans enhance their skill sets through training and credentialing for jobs in high-demand areas,” said Amy Cable, MSCC Financial Aid Director.

Arkansas, Arizona, and Wisconsin all received $1.25 million grants, while the DOL awarded the other states/agencies lesser amounts. Grant recipients were chosen because of their familiarity with the areas and populations to be served and their demonstrated ability to administer effective programs.

The AVETP program is designed to provide an estimated 5,500 veterans nationwide with job training and skills development services. Funding will be used to give veterans increased opportunities for assessment, training, supportive services, employment, and retained employment in Arkansas.

For the grant, the term “veteran” is defined as an individual who served in the active military, naval, or air service and who was discharged or released under conditions other than dishonorable.

To be eligible for assistance, veterans must meet one of the following eligibility criteria: have a service-connected disability, have significant barriers to employment, have served on active duty in the armed forces during a war or expedition for which a campaign badge has been authorized, and/or have been recently separated (those within 48 months of discharge).

Available funding includes a maximum of $1,000 to assist with training costs and up to $500 for supportive services.

This project will utilize an individualized case-management approach coupled with supportive services to ensure the success of the veteran participant from assessment to employment placement and retention. It will also leverage public/private resources provided by the diverse project implementation partners to access innovative training opportunities and pathways to high-growth jobs.

More information on the Department of Labor's employment and re-employment programs for veterans can be found at: http://www.dol.gov/vets/.
 
For information about high-demand job training at MSCC, visit the campus at 2000 West Broadway in West Memphis, call (870) 733-6728, or email admissions@midsouthcc.edu. For financial assistance information, visit the campus, call (870) 733-6729, or email finaid@midsouthcc.edu.