Employment Services
The Career Center assists unemployment insurance claimants who are required to register for work. SCC assists job seekers in finding employment by providing access and direction to use the Talent Bank labor exchange system. In addition, SCC assists employers in filling jobs by providing access and direction through use of the Talent Bank labor exchange system.
No Worker Left Behind (NWLB)
There is currently a large demand for the No Worker Left Behind Program. If you are unable to secure an orientation date at Michigan Works! Southfield, the NWLB Program is available at Michigan Works! offices throughout the State of Michigan. A list of Michigan Works! offices can be found at: www.michiganworks.org or call 800-285-WORKS.
NWLB is Governor Granholm's vision for accelerating the transition of thousands of workers into good-paying jobs by providing up to two years of free tuition in any approved program at any community college, university or other approved training provider. Enabling workers to acquire the skills necessary to succeed in the fast-changing global economy of the 21st century is central to Michigan's strategy for economic transformation.
Who qualifies for NWLB?
Adults who are 18 and older and can document their status as US citizens or eligible non-citizens, and
- Are currently unemployed, or
- Have received a lay-off or termination notice, or
- If employed, have a family income of $40,000 or less.
Note: 18-23 year olds have additional eligibility criteria. Individuals who have graduated high school in the last two years may already qualify for the Michigan Promise.
If I qualify for NWLB, am I entitled to free tuition?
NWLB is not an entitlement program. All interested persons who meet the eligibility criteria will be given assessments to see if they have the aptitude, skills and ability to:
- pursue and successfully complete an associate's degree or occupational certificate in a high-demand occupation, emerging industry or entrepreneurship program, and
- secure and maintain employment in Michigan at a living wage in the area for which trained.
Assessment is a process that involves testing, employer and occupational research and a demonstration of commitment by the applicant to the goals and requirements of the program. Personal accountability and compliance with program parameters will also be taken into account when determining whether or not an individual is enrolled in NWLB.
If I am enrolled into NWLB, how much free tuition can I get and what programs qualify?
Tuition covers up to $5,000 per year for two years, for a total of $10,000 per person. It covers tuition or instruction costs, books, materials, fees and academic supportive services. Participants may pursue an associate's degree, occupational certificate, bachelor's degree completion or master's programs as long as two years or less of training is needed, it is occupational focused and will lead to a job in a high demand sector, emerging sector or entrepreneurial endeavor.
In determining how much free tuition will be funded for each participant, Michigan Works! and training providers are required to first leverage federal and state financial aid grant resources, such as Pell, and other existing resources. If a participant is eligible for educational benefits from a current employer or as part of a buy-out from a previous employer, those funds will be incorporated into the individual's overall financial plan.
As a part of the enrollment process, you will be required to complete the Federal Student Aid Application (FAFSA) at www.fafsa.ed.gov. If you complete this application and bring a copy of it with you to Michigan Works! when you apply, it may facilitate your application and enrollment process.
Jobs, Education & Training (JET)*
For low-income families, the Jobs, Education and Training program provides:
- Work supports and education/training opportunities to help them get good paying jobs that move their families out of poverty.
- A broader and more intensive range of services, including job placement assistance, job readiness services, remedial education, training, high school completion, post secondary education, and ongoing post-employment supports and services.
- Training and support on-the-job past 180 days to ensure they stay attached to the labor force and are able to prepare for advancement.
- The tools and skills that are needed to empower individuals and families to be self-sustaining long term.
Trade Adjustment Assistance (TAA)*
Trade Adjustment Assistance (TAA) assist individuals who have become unemployed as a result of increased imports from, or shifts in production to, foreign countries. The goal of the Trade Act programs is to help trade-affected workers return to suitable employment as quickly as possible. To facilitate this goal, TAA certified workers may access a menu of services that include income support, relocation allowances, job search allowances, and a health coverage tax credit. TAA participants that require retraining in order to obtain suitable employment may receive occupational training.
Workforce Investment Act (WIA) – Adult Program*
The Workforce Investment Act (WIA) Adult Program provides workforce investment activities that increase the employment, retention, and earnings of participants, and increase occupational skill attainment by participants, which will improve the quality of the workforce and enhance the productivity and competitiveness of the economy. WIA services include but are not limited to:
Core services:
- Labor Market Information
- Job Leads, Job Referrals and Job Skills Information
- Academic and Occupational Training Information
- Financial Aid and Supportive Services Information
- Eligibility determination for training services
Intensive/Individualized Services:
- Counseling and Career Planning
- Assessments of skill levels and services needed
- Development of a Career Plan and Identify Employment Goals
- Resume and Interview Assistance
Training services:
- Occupational Skills Training
- Assistance with Credential Attainment – i.e. HS Diploma or GED
- Skill upgrading and/or retraining
- Adult education and literacy activities
Workforce Investment Act (WIA) Youth Program (Ages 16-21)*
This program provides paid work experience at minimum wage in public service and non-profit agencies. Work experience gives participants the opportunity to gain work skills needed for the private sector. The program provides work experience under the close supervision of the worksite supervisor who understands the special needs of the participant. Program monitors provide ongoing support on an individual basis at the worksite, where discussions are held with supervisors and participants. Access to these services is based on eligibility.
* Eligibility requirement may apply.