Hiring and Training

Washington State's primary hiring and training programs can significantly reduce your costs and save you time as well.

In addition, the Workforce College is an online resource for locating community college training programs in specific topics.

A Business and Occupation tax credit is available to businesses who train qualified workers in distressed areas. See the Incentives page for details.

Customized Training

Contract with a community or technical college, or licensed private career school for employee training with the Customized Training Program and earn a Business & Occupation tax credit equal to 50 percent of the cost of training.

WorkFirst

This is Washington State's Welfare-to-Work program. It operates as a partnership between four state agencies. Businesses can use the service to find applicants with job-ready skills. Customized training is also possible.

• WorkFirst Employer Information
• Job Skills Program provides match funds for training, which can be on-site or classroom or a combination. Training is generally provided through community colleges, although a third party may be used if a college is unable to support a particular topic. JSP can be used by companies coming into the state and existing Washington companies that are expanding or upgrading their workforce. Eligibility is based in part on job creation and hourly wages.
• WorkFirst Business Outreach

WorkSource

WorkSource Centers provide one-stop hiring and training assistance to businesses and job-seekers. Services for businesses include computer job matching, online job postings and resume bank, customized training, and consultation. WorkSource Centers are a joint venture of numerous workforce, education, and training agencies.

Workplace Basic Skills

This program provides on-the-job training that combines literacy skills with work-based knowledge. Basic skills necessary for workplace success include the obvious - reading, writing, math-as well as the less obvious, such as thinking and communications skills, and personal management. Government funding is occasionally available to assist companies with basic skills training.

• Workplace Basic Skills (Western Pacific Literacy Board)
• Workplace Basic Skills Local Contacts

Workforce College

Workforce College is an online database of training programs offered by Washington State community and technical colleges. Businesses can search for colleges that provide training in a selected subject area and request proposals for customized training.

Related Information

• Higher Education
• Hire Employees ( Department of Licensing)
• Workforce Explorer Career Center (Washington State Employment Security Department)

Updated 2008