What is On-the-Job-Training (OJT)?

The OJT program helps employers reduce training costs for newly hired employees through wage subsidies. Employers can receive up to 50% reimbursement of a new hire's wages for up to 6 months (up to $5000 )

Eligibility:

  • New hires must be full-time and permanent employees
  • Must earn at least $15/hour
  • Available for multiple regional industry cluster

Note: To qualify you must be a Portsmouth Resident or Portsmouth Business for OJT reimbursement.

Supportive Services:

  • Transportation
  • Uniforms or other work-related items
  • Basic car repair
  • Childcare and dependent care
  • Emergency housing

To participate, both the business and employee must be certified as eligible by the Portsmouth@Work Center. Please fill the application below to verify eligibility. Once filled out, email the completed form to briggss@portsmouthva.gov.

What is Incumbent Worker Training (IWT)?

The IWT program supports skill development for existing employees, helping them gain higher-level skills that benefit both the employee and employer. This program allows for the development of skills needed for new job requirements, career advancement, or improvements in productivity.

Eligibility:

  • 50% reimbursement of training costs
  • Employees can earn industry-recognized credentials

Note: Open to employees who work in Portsmouth, regardless of where they live.

 

To participate, both the business and employee must be certified as eligible by the Portsmouth@Work Center. Please fill the application below to verify eligibility. Once filled out, email the completed form to briggss@portsmouthva.gov.

Career Paths

  • Manufacturing
  • Healthcare 
  • Hospitality
  • Maritime
  • Skilled Trades
  • Information Technology (IT)
  • Transportation and Logistics 

* For Incumber worker training, employees can live in any city but they have to work in Portsmouth 

* For On-the-Job Training employees are required to live in Portsmouth 

Supporting the Heart of Our Community

Every participating business or employee must be certified as eligible by the Portsmouth@Work center prior to participation it he On-the-Job (OTJ) Program (“Certified Participants”).

Once filled out, email the completed form to briggss@portsmouthva.gov.

Resources

Virginia Employment Commission

Virginia Employment Commission

The VEC offers career assistance and employment opportunities for job seekers, employer services for businesses of all sizes, employment services for veterans, unemployment insurance benefits to eligible individuals, and other programs designed to assist with employment.

Hampton Roads Workforce Council

Hampton Roads Workforce Council

Hampton Roads Workforce Council oversees federally funded workforce development programs, which assist businesses in accessing qualified workers and jobseekers in finding suitable job openings and bolstering their earning power through training.