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Frequently Asked Questions

What is WIOA?

Signed into law in July 2014 by President Barack Obama, The Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) guides the structure and delivery of job training and re-employment programs administered by the nation’s workforce development system—including the Eastern Kentucky Concentrated Employment Program, Inc. (EKCEP) and Kentucky’s nine other Local Workforce Investment Areas, as well as the commonwealth’s workforce system. In effect, WIOA reauthorizes the Workforce Investment Act (WIA) that has provided funding to states and workforce organizations for jobs programs since signed by President Bill Clinton in 1998.

Federal funding for these programs is handed down to the state level and distributed between the Workforce Innovation Boards in each area, which then distribute it to regional funding management agencies like Eastern Kentucky Concentrated Employment Program, Inc. (EKCEP).

Jobseekers and employers can encounter WIOA assistance by first interacting with a variety of services and programs offered through EKCEP and its Kentucky Career Center JobSight network’s service delivery model in the region.

These include: Job Clubs of Eastern Kentucky, Teleworks USA, Hiring Our Miners Everyday (H.O.M.E.), and our Employer Services, among others.

 

Who is eligible for WIOA Services?

WIOA provides services for young people and adults seeking employment. Several factors determine the eligibility of applicants. Guidelines are different if you need financial assistance for college or short term training to get a job. WIOA also serves workers who have lost their jobs due to a company relocating operations to another country (as outlined in the North American Free Trade Agreement, or NAFTA), and workers who have been laid off from their jobs.

Where can I find a WIOA office?

Click here to find an office near you. EKCEP has contracts to provide WIOA services with nine community action agencies serving a 23 county area. Most of these agencies have an office in every county they serve.

What do I need to do to enroll in WIOA services?

You must bring a valid driver’s license, social security card, and proof of income for the last six months to the WIOA office. If you receive any public assistance such as food stamps, simply bring in your award letter. If you are a veteran, you will also need a copy of your DD-214. Your local career advisor will inform you of any other documentation you may need.

 

What are Employer Services?

Employer Services are available in each of the nine contractor areas in our 23-county service area. Each of these nine contractor areas features a dedicated Employer Account Representative. They can help employers find qualified people, screen potential employees during the hiring process, provide labor market information, assist with training costs for new hires and with upgrading skills of existing employees.

What can Employer Services do for my business?

We realize that each employer is unique and each does not need the same set of services. When you meet with your Employer Account Representative, you will be able to describe the specific workforce needs your company has. The representative will then work with you to help meet those needs.

What is EKCEP?

Eastern Kentucky Concentrated Employment Program (EKCEP) has served the people of eastern Kentucky since it was created in 1968 as part of legislation related to President Lyndon B. Johnson’s antipoverty campaign. EKCEP connects unemployed and underemployed Eastern Kentuckians with the services and training that enable them to enter the workforce, raise their workforce skills, or return to the workforce after losing their jobs. EKCEP also provides the region’s employers with a variety of innovative programs that address their specific workforce needs. EKCEP’s mission is to prepare, advance, and expand the workforce of Eastern Kentucky.

What is Kentucky Career Center JobSight?

Kentucky Career Center JobSight is a network of career centers serving 23 Eastern Kentucky counties where you can find multiple agencies that can help in your career planning needs. Click here to view a list of office locations

What services are available at Kentucky Career Center JobSight locations?

At JobSight you will meet expert Career Advisors who can help you decide what career path is best for you to get you in a job, including but not limited to examining college options or short-term job training. Resource rooms at the JobSight locations are equipped with Internet access, computers, local newspapers, and Career Advisors. The Career Advisors can help you explore available opportunities and determine what jobs will best suit you.

JobSight provides an array of government workforce programs for employers and jobseekers—all in one location, all for free. For employers, JobSight can help streamline human resources tasks and offers customized service plans. There is no cost to the employer or the employee.

 

Is Kentucky Career Center JobSight or EKCEP the Office of Employment and Training (OET)?

No. We are a partner of OET in the statewide Kentucky Career Center system and help serve clients in every way we can. We are not a government agency and do not process claims related to Unemployment Insurance (UI). We can, however, connect you with our local partners in OET nearest you who can assist you with UI filings.

Who will assist me at a Kentucky Career Center JobSight location?

You will be teamed with an expert Career Advisor. That person will help you with your resume, job search, and can help you discover your career interest patterns. Your personal Career Advisor can help you fill out forms to register for college and can even provide you with local workshops that may be beneficial. The workshops offer tips on how to get a job, resume writing, and appropriate workplace behavior.