Professional Development, OJT and Apprenticeships
Education
Veteran Readiness and Employment (VR&E) services to help with job training, employment accommodations, resume development, and job seeking skills coaching. Other services may be provided to assist Veterans and Servicemembers in starting their own businesses or independent living services for those who are severely disabled and unable to work in traditional employment.
GI Bill®
GI Bill® is a registered trademark of the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). More information about education benefits offered by VA is available at the official U.S. government Web site at https://www.benefits.va.gov/gibill."
- VA Main Website: This is the main page for the VA. It provides access to various benefits.
- GI Bill Application: All beneficiaries MUST apply for benefits. This is the best place to do it.
- GI Bill Educational Benefit Comparison Chart: This chart quickly identifies the features and benefits of each type of GI Bill educational benefit.
- GI Bill Comparison Tool: This tool gives insight on participating schools and employers.
- GI Bill Feedback System: This tool allows beneficiaries to both positive and negative feedback regarding their experience using the GI Bill.
- Web Enabled Approval Management System (WEAMS): This tool identifies approved facilities, the programs offered, and officials at the facility whom will assist with GI Bill benefits.
- Ask VA (AVA): This portal allows easy access to the VA without waiting on the phone. All communication is secure and a response guaranteed.
- Electronic Benefit Management Website: One of the VA’s most effective tools, this is a one one-stop-shop for managing benefits.
- Oklahoma National Guard Tuition Waiver Program: This program entitles eligible Guard members pursuing an associate’s or bachelor’s degree at an accredited institution of higher learning in Oklahoma to a resident tuition waiver.
OJT and Apprenticeships
Apprenticeship and On-the-Job Training programs allow beneficiaries to learn a trade or skill through training on the job participation rather than attending the formal classroom instruction. The VA Education beneficiary usually enters into a training contract with an employer or union, and at the end of the training, the beneficiary gains job certification or journeyman status. The employer or union pays the beneficiary a salary. If the beneficiary is in an approved program they can use their VA Education benefit and receive a monthly tax-free stipend.
Industries and Jobs that may offer On-the-Job Training or Apprenticeship programs:
Plumbing
Firefighting
Police
Electricians
HVAC
Masonry
Correctional Facilities
Machining
Auto Repair
Benefits of having a program that is approved for VA Education Benefits:
Use the VA Education benefit as a recruiting tool by using wages + stipend to attract Veteran candidates.
