The Ohio Incumbent Workforce Training Voucher Program has returned and applications can be submitted starting next week. The program, through the Ohio Development Services Agency, assists Ohio employers to improve the skills of their workforce as a key to their economic competitiveness. Employer's cost of training to expand and improve employee’s workforce skills and develop their opportunities for growth and promotion are eligible for reimbursement. Vouchers for up to 33% of training costs, for a total of $2,000 per employee and $25,000 per employer, are available for employee training taking place between January 1, 2019 and December 31, 2019.
To be eligible a company has to be a for-profit entity doing business in a targeted industry. Eligibility is determined by NAICS code and includes these industries:
- Advanced Manufacturing
- Aerospace and Aviation
- Automotive (Automotive Technicians) & Automotive (Manufacturing)
- BioHealth
- Corporate Headquarters
- Energy
- Financial Services
- Food Processing
- Information Technology and Services
- Polymers and Chemicals
- Logistics
- Research and Development
Companies that received the Voucher Program in fiscal year 2017 and utilized 33% or less of the award amount will not be eligible for fiscal year 2019. Also, companies that received assistance from the program in fiscal year 2018 will not be eligible to participate for fiscal year 2019.
Eligible employees need to meet the following requirements:
- Employed in any of the following business functions production, back office operations, information technology, logistics, research and development or as an automotive technician;
- Earning an hourly wage of at least 150 percent of the federal minimum wage plus benefits;
- An Ohio resident;
- At least 18 years of age;
- Working at least 25 hours per week; and
- Directly employed by the Applicant for six months or longer.
Note: an employee who is employed in a retail/service function is not eligible for the Voucher Program.
Eligible training includes:
- Training for improved process efficiency (e.g. ISO-9000, Six Sigma or Lean Manufacturing);
- Training from a national, regional or state trade association that offers an independently certified training curriculum and testing;
- Training that leads to an industry recognized certificate/credential;
- Training provided in conjunction with the purchase of a new piece of equipment; and
- Training to maintain an industry recognized credential.
