The beautiful thing about learning is that nobody can take it away from you.”
― B.B. King
Let’s recap our newfound communication guide for terms. In ‘Lessons from a Layoff, Part 1’, we discussed how to insert a new paraphrase into your tech journey for empowerment. We removed the word unemployment and replaced it with job transition.
Next, to enhance our skills and toolset, we have a common expression to convey this action: upskilling – defined as teaching (an employee) additional skills. When you are in the state of job transition, the goal is to get re-employed with speed as a valued and marketable resource. To be fitted with the proper skills guarantees a high chance you will excel in your profession. The good news is that when working with an employment center or coach, they can partner with you to develop an expedited strategy for your return to the workforce.
“Show me the money” relates to federal funding available to retrain people with certifications and all the coursework needed or that you have dreamed of undertaking. It’s at your fingertips to target businesses that ensure you shift to the right job path.
The employment center has your back. Multiple grants and funding can aid you through the Workforce Investment Act (WIA). Federal legislation provides funding for individuals to retrain for new occupations. If an individual is eligible for WIA retraining money, an award of an Individual Training Account (ITA) can be used only at approved schools for WIA-certified programs.
This is a unique view on layoffs and what it feels like to decide your own training curriculum choices to make yourself a better, employable resource. Second, you do not have to worry about how to find the money to attend your chosen course. Your engagement is just a call away from your local employment agency.
For me, I selected cloud computing coursework at a local university. It turned out to be the best course ever and I was connected with the local training center next for my project manager certification.
So what does this look like?
Takeaway tidbit: pick a successful employment center for this journey in your home state. Don’t just settle for any employment coach, but be selective on your match.
Action
Peruse several job descriptions using the center’s databases that align with your career and take note of the job qualifications and knowledge required. Where there are gaps, compile your exhaustive training list, and don’t be shy.
In the ‘Lessons Learned from a Layoff, Part 3,’ I will guide you on how to obtain interim work, and transportation tokens supplied to cover interview travel expenses. Gain pay in different ways, i.e. the art of collecting multiple streams of income.
If you need help getting on track, contact your Tech Career Coach for advice. Let’s soar to the next level!