WIA Funding: Anyone ever get it? Tips? (unemployment benefits, college)

[peet111]

I was advised by a career counselor to look into funding for an IT class, however, with most programs I'm sure there are a lot of hurdles and so was looking to see if anyone out there actually got through the process or knew anything about it. And then there is the fact that right now I'm not considered unemployed by the state because I'm still on severance. I have researched on the gov sites but wanted some first hand experience if anyone could share. thanks

[Atlanta Georgia Peach]

I have experience with WIA, in Georgia.

It worked well for me. I had previously obtained an A+ certification, worked and was laid-off, due to outsourcing of my department.

I applied for unemployment, and after severance was exhausted, my unemployment began.

I went to a Job Center, where I spoke with a rep. I selected a program I wanted to train in, was tested for aptitude and was selected as a participant.

I completed the training for my MCSE in 3 months. During which time, unemployment paid my full benefits, gave me a stipend for childcare, and paid for all training materials, books, etc.

They also paid for all (7) of my Microsoft testing vouchers.

The whole process was "seamless", no hurdles or hoops to jump thru. This was in 2006. Hopefully things have not drastically changed.

[twin2kie]

I have experience with WIA but in Illinois.

IL sucks! They are friggin slow. I finally had to go to the mayor's office to get some dang results.

However, after 2 and 1/2 years, I was finally approved and off to my Certified Public Accountant classes.

They covered the review course, the payment to the board of illinios, and for the (4) sections of the exam. The only thing i paid for were my college transcripts. Big whoop they were 5 dollars. All the while i received my unemployment benefits.

I was told that you are given 5000 dollars but it is use it or lose it. Basically, if you select a certification that costs 3500. They will pay the 3500 but you lose the remaining 1500. It does not get banked anywhere. So make sure that what you select is what you want to do and is worth spending the funds on. I would not waste it on something that costs 500 dollars.