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Businesses

Be Career Ready

Each step on the career pathway offers opportunities for advancement. The pathway prepares you for the next level, whether it is employment or education.

Each step on the career pathway prepares individuals for the next level of employment or education. By focusing on in-demand industry credentials and certification, Career Pathways aligns individuals with the needs of Virginia’s workforce – targeting jobs important to the local economy.

Of the 1.5 million job vacancies expected in the next decade in Virginia, more than half will require more than a high school diploma but less than a bachelor’s degree. Instead, businesses will seek job applicants who hold an associate’s degree and/or industry-recognized certifications.

Middle-skill jobs account for 49 percent of Virginia’s labor market, but only 40 percent of the state’s workers are trained to the middle-skill level, according to the National Skills Coalition.

Career Pathways can help fill this job gap by providing direction and structure in employable fields – while helping individuals attain a livable wage, career success and independence.

Are you a Federal Contractor? Contact us for assistance in creating and meeting your 503 obligations!

Resources

  • DARS’ Business Services - Virginia state agency that offers various no cost services to employers to help recruit, screen, train and maintain employees
  • DBVI’s WorkForce Development Services - Virginia state agency offering help for employers with Work Opportunity Tax Credit, On the Job Training, Internships, and both Paid and Unpaid Work Experiences
  • Virginia Employment Commission - Describes the nine hiring groups that qualify for the Work Opportunity Tax Credit
  • Ticket to Work
  • Elevate Virginia - Virginia Board of Workforce Development initiative to promote business growth and develop job skills of Virginians.
  • Job Accommodation Network - Reviews legislations, publications and typical accommodations used in the workplace for people with disabilities
  • Think Beyond the Label - Walks employers through steps to determine tax credits and incentives when hiring someone with a disability
  • Ask Earn - Provides free information for employers who want to recruit, hire and retain employees with disabilities. Learn about job accommodations, employment laws, where to find qualified workers and how to create an inclusive workplace
  • NOVA Services - Menu of Employer Services from Northern Virginia Workforce Partners
  • State Apprenticeship Grant

WWRC Manufacturing Technology Training Program

Frequently Asked Questions

What are Career Pathways for Individuals with Disabilities?

Virginia offers individuals with disabilities a new way to navigate their career. Career Pathways for Individuals with Disabilities (CPID) encourages individuals to attain marketable career credentials, qualify for skilled jobs and earn a livable wage.

With more than 10 project partners in business, workforce development and education, Career Pathways focuses on several industry sectors, including manufacturing and information technology, to meet business needs for in-demand occupations.

Vocational rehabilitation agencies can provide a pipeline of skilled, credentialed individuals with disabilities who are ready to work. They can help meet your hiring needs including diversity and federal contractor requirements.

The Work Opportunity Tax Credit is available to employers who hire persons with disabilities. Other incentives include on-the-job training reimbursement.

Participants earn nationally recognized credentials including Manufacturing Technician, Manufacturing Specialist, OSHA 10 and Career Readiness Certification.

CPID teamed up with the Virginia Manufacturers Association, which created “Dream it. Do it. Virginia” academies. These programs immerse individuals in advanced technology and allow them to explore STEM fields. For more information, visit www.dreamitdoitvirginia.com.

The Virginia Department for Aging and Rehabilitative Services and the Department for the Blind and Vision Impaired are leading this five-year grant to enhance regional career pathways systems and serve Virginians with disabilities, especially young adults and veterans.