What Are Workforce & Industry Certification Programs?

The Division of Workforce Development at Volunteer State Community College offers non-credit training programs designed to help individuals quickly gain in-demand, job-ready skills.

What Makes These Programs Different?

Workforce and industry certification courses are:

• Not academic credit courses
• Short-term and skills-focused
• Designed for:
  • Working professionals looking to upskill or reskill
  • High school students preparing for careers
  • Individuals seeking fast entry into the workforce without a college degree

These programs focus on practical, career-aligned training that leads to industry-recognized certifications employers value.

Do These Courses Count Toward a College Degree?

Not directly—but they can still help you earn college credit.

Through Prior Learning Assessment (PLA):

• You may earn college credit hours for certifications you complete
• These credits can apply toward:
  • Technical Certificates
  • Associate Degrees

👉 To find out how your certifications may transfer into credit:

📧 Email: Workforcedevelopment@volstate.edu

How Can I Pay for Workforce Programs?

❌ Federal Financial Aid

• Traditional aid (FAFSA, Pell Grant) is not currently available for these programs

✅ Available Funding Options

1. Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA)

Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act

This program may cover training costs for eligible individuals.

Who qualifies?

• Job seekers
• Dislocated workers
• Individuals meeting income or employment criteria

How to apply:

• Contact your local American Job Center
• A career advisor will:
  • Review eligibility
  • Help you apply
  • Guide you through funding approval

👉 To find a location near you:
Search “American Job Center near me” or visit your local workforce office

2. MYCAA (For Military Spouses)

My Career Advancement Account (MYCAA)

This program provides financial assistance for eligible active-duty military spouses.

Key details:

• Covers training in portable, high-demand careers
• Funding caps and eligibility requirements apply

👉 To learn more or apply:

• Visit the official MYCAA portal through Military OneSource
• Speak with a career counselor

🔮 Future Funding Opportunities

Some programs may become eligible for Workforce Pell Grant in the future.

📌 This is a developing federal initiative aimed at expanding aid for short-term workforce training.

Who Should Take Workforce Programs?

These programs are ideal if you:

• Want to start a career quickly
• Need to gain new skills without committing to a degree program
• Are exploring a field before pursuing college
• Want certifications that can later apply toward a degree

Key Takeaways

• Workforce programs are non-credit, career-focused training
• They lead to industry certifications, not degrees
• Financial aid is limited, but WIOA and MYCAA may help
• You may earn college credit later through PLA

Need Help Choosing a Program or Understanding Credit Options?

📧 Email: Workforcedevelopment@volstate.edu

Include:

• Your area of interest
• Any certifications you already have (if applicable)