Professional Development, OJT and Apprenticeships

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 Service-members 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.
  

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.