Program Opportunities
Investing in your workforce, with support every step of the way.
Through the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA), PA CareerLink® Lancaster County helps employers strengthen their teams with funding and incentives for training. These programs offset the cost of hiring and upskilling, giving businesses the support they need to grow while helping employees build long-term careers.
On-the-Job Training (OJT)
Hire new talent and get reimbursed while they learn.
The OJT program provides employers with wage reimbursement when hiring eligible participants and training them in the workplace. Employers can be reimbursed for up to 50% of the trainee’s hourly wage—and in some cases, up to 75% for small businesses or hard-to-serve populations.
Training typically lasts up to 1,040 hours (about 26 weeks), with reimbursement provided only for actual hours worked. To qualify, employers must:
- Offer full-time employment (at least 32 hours per week).
- Commit to retaining the trainee after training.
- Provide wages and benefits comparable to similar positions.
OJT funding can also be used to upskill existing employees, preparing them for new roles and responsibilities. This makes it a flexible tool for both hiring and workforce development.
Incumbent Worker Training (IWT)
Strengthen your current team and stay competitive.
The IWT program helps employers provide training for existing employees to meet evolving business needs. By upskilling their current workforce, businesses can improve competitiveness, adapt to new technologies, and reduce the risk of layoffs.
Employers receive financial assistance for training costs but are required to share expenses, with the contribution based on business size:
- 50 or fewer employees → 10% of training costs
- 51–100 employees → 25% of training costs
- More than 100 employees → 50% of training costs
Eligible training must:
- Benefit full-time employees who have been with the company for at least six months.
- Lead to credentials, promotions, or wage increases.
- Strengthen the business without displacing or reducing hours for other workers.
By investing in IWT, employers improve retention, boost productivity, and create pathways for career growth within their organizations.
Earn & Learn Program
Summer employment programs have become critical pipelines to engage youth and put them on a path for career longevity or further education.
The Earn & Learn program provides job readiness training, career exploration, and employment opportunities for youth living in Lancaster County. The program aims to expose youth and young adults to local industries and businesses that can absorb them as full-time employees.
Job Placement/Matching: Youth are matched with employers based on employer specifications, geographic proximity, and availability of reliable transportation for youth.
Staff Support: PA CareerLink® Lancaster County staff work directly with youth and employers to provide communication, linkage, and job placements, as well as to troubleshoot and problem-solve any challenges that arise during the summer.
Interested? Fill out this form to get started!
Benefits to Employers:
- PA CareerLink® Lancaster County screens and trains the youth participating in the program, matching their skills and interest to local businesses.
- You help local youth learn valuable life skills and gain practical work experience.
- You’ll have an opportunity to see what local talent can offer and to introduce youth to potential career paths.
- You’ll be assigned a dedicated job site team advisor to ensure a successful experience for you and the youth worker.
Your Pathway to Success Starts Here
Looking for employment, training, or a new opportunity? We’re here to help you move forward. Connect with us today — and let’s get started together.