Customized Training

The Department’s Employment and Training Coordinator is a retired iron worker from Iron Workers and Riggers Local # 68 where he served as Shop Steward for 27 years. As, the Workforce Investment Act Coordinator for the New Jersey State AFL-CIO, he works closely with the New Jersey Department of Labor Rapid Response Team to assist local unions and their members facing the threat of a plant closing or layoff. He provides support to unions interested in applying for Customized Training and Literacy Grants, and with issues related to the Grant application process. He also works with the State Employment and Training Commission and with the labor representatives on the 17 Workforce Investment Boards throughout the state, to provide training and other forms of technical assistance.

Five Facts You Should Know About WIA

1. If unions and their employers are not accessing these public resources, low road employers may be using them by default.
2. Accessing WIA funds can free up existing employer-worker training dollars to support new training programs and projects.
3. Under WIA, all training providers, including Joint Apprenticeship and Training Committees (JATCs), can set their own entrance standards for trainees.
4. WIA funding can cover all or part of the cost of expanding a training program.
5. By connecting with WIA, unions can become stronger voices for workers and help keep local communities on the economic high road.

   Click here for New Jersey Survival Guide to Unemployment 

   Click here for Early Warning Signs of Layoffs and Plant Closings

For more information about customized training, contact WIA Coordinator Paul Cenerino, at pcenerino@njaflcio.org or 609-989-8730.