The WIOA Adult or Youth Internship + OJT Package Program is a unique workforce solution that combines a 1-month paid internship with an On-the-Job Training (OJT) component. This program helps employers and job seekers “audition” each other, ensuring the right fit before moving into long-term employment with continued training and wage reimbursements.

Employers can try out potential employees through a short-term internship without committing to long-term employment right away. If the intern is a good fit, employers can seamlessly transition them into full-time roles, with OJT wage reimbursements of up to 50% to help cover training costs.

During the 1-month internship, wages are fully covered by WIOA program funds. In the OJT phase, employers pay wages, but up to 50% of those wages are reimbursed through WIOA to offset training expenses.

Businesses of all sizes and industries are welcome to participate, as long as they can provide hands-on training and long-term employment opportunities. The program is particularly beneficial for businesses facing high turnover or needing to train employees in specialized skills.

Prior to entering into an OJT agreement, pre-screening will be conducted to ensure that the employer meets minimum standards and can provide both training and long-term employment to an OJT trainee.  Employers must ensure:

• Retaining OJT participants for a period of no less than one year after the OJT contract has been completed;
• Company has operated at its current location for at least 120 days.  If less than 120 days, employers must submit documentation to prove they are functioning elsewhere for more than 120 days, that they are not relocating, and no employee dislocation occurred;
• The OJT trainee is employed under a payroll system that includes documentation of attendance, days worked and number of hours worked per date, computation of gross wages, deductions, and net pay;
• Wage and labor standards will be adhered to and pay the OJT trainee no less than the State minimum wage and at the same rates, including increases, as trainees or employees who are situated in similar jobs;
• Compliance with all applicable Federal, State, and local laws and regulations, WIOA and its regulations.

Employers are expected to:

• Provide a meaningful training experience during the internship.
• Develop a training plan for the OJT phase if the candidate is hired.
• Commit to evaluating the intern’s fit for long-term employment.

Yes, the internship phase is designed to give both you and the intern a no-risk trial period. If the intern isn’t a good fit, you are not obligated to hire them for the OJT phase.

Our team will provide ongoing support through every step of the process. We assist with candidate selection, creating training plans, processing wage reimbursements, and ensuring the program’s success.

Simply contact the AJCH  at 808-768-5701 We’ll walk you through the eligibility requirements and help you set up a customized program that fits your business needs.