On-Ramp Program
The On-Ramp Program is designed to help workers who are unemployed or underemployed improve their chances of job hunting success. Specifically, the program’s goal is to increase the number of adults who obtain postsecondary education credentials, such as a college degree or an industry-recognized certification or licensure. Through the On-Ramp Program, John Tyler Community College helps you get the training you need to be more marketable in today’s competitive workforce. Best of all – your training could be free.
Program Benefits
The On-Ramp Program, supported by the Workforce Investment Act (WIA) Rapid Response funds, provides financial assistance to students enrolled in a degree program and to those who seek occupational noncredit, a sequence of courses or assessments that can lead to industry certification.
In addition to financial support, program participants receive:
- Assistance with tools that help assess skill levels and interests
- Help with developing a career and training plan
- Information about the most in-demand career fields in Central Virginia
- Information about employment resources and services
- Advising from the On-Ramp Program coordinator at John Tyler
- Details about the academic resources available at John Tyler
Participant Qualifications
You may qualify if you are:
- 18 years of age or older
- Unemployed or dislocated as a result of a layoff
- Underemployed (work part-time, work two jobs, or are over qualified for your current job)
- Seeking a degree or a certificate
- Not already receiving a source of funding that fully covers tuition, fees and books
Download these forms for additional eligibility guidance:
Student Eligibility Checklist
Student Eligibility Criteria
On-Ramp Program Contact Information
To find out if you qualify and to learn more, contact the On-Ramp Program coordinator:
LaWanda Woods, M.Ed., B.A.
Chester Campus
Trailer 30
Phone: 804-768-6612
Email: lwoods@jtcc.edu
Workshops
The On-Ramp Program offers a series of workshops designed to help you improve the various skills needed during the job-search process. These workshops are open to all John Tyler students. On-Ramp students must attend one workshop on each topic.
Here are the latest workshop dates and topics for spring 2013. On-Ramp participants will also receive e-mails about upcoming sessions.
Additional Resources for Job Seekers
Getting a job in today’s competitive workforce environment requires patience, skill and perseverance. A well-written resume, polished interview skills and a college degree or industry-recognized licensure or certification can make you more marketable to a potential employer. Below are a number of resources that can help you in this endeavor.
Job Search and Employability Tools
Employability Skills Workshop: Gives you an understanding of the basic skills necessary for getting, keeping and doing well on a job.
Job Search Tools: Provides ten time-saving tips to speed up your job search.
Resume Writing: Explains the purpose and use of a resume.
Interviewing Techniques: Teaches tangible and intangible factors for interview success.
Business Letter Writing: Tips on writing, organizing and formatting cover letters and thank you notes.
Maintaining Employment: Tips on keeping your employment during economic downturns.
Non-verbal Communications: Learn how nonverbal communication can be a powerful tool to connect with others, express what you really mean, navigate challenging situations, and build better relationships.
How to Negotiate Salaries: How to develop a plan, take control and achieve the salary and benefits you desire.
Virginia Job Resources
Virginia Education Wizard: Online tool developed to help students and potential students explore their interest, research careers, find college majors, estimate and compare college costs, find and apply for financial aid and scholarships, plan their transfer from community college to four-year institutions and apply for admission to community colleges.
Virginia Employment Commission
Virginia Department of Human Resource Management
John Tyler Community College Resources
Programs of Study
Curriculum Placement Procedures
Additional Educational Resources
Virginia Community College System
Social Media Tools
LinkUp.com: A search engine that lists jobs that are found on company and employer web sites. The free service uncovers what LinkUp calls 'hidden jobs' because they are typically unadvertised outside of a company's web sites and can be difficult to find if you don't know where to look.
Real-Time Job Apps: This free app promotes finding a job with one single tap from your iPhone or iPod Touch. It enables job seekers to attach an online CV, social media profile and/or a video CV to job offers that have been posted. The “quickpitch” feature makes the tedious search process a breeze and actually streamlines the antiquated job application process of the last century.
Job Compass: Considered one of the highest rated job search apps by The Talent Buzz, Job Compass is a free app that searches through millions of jobs across the U.S. You can actually geo-target them on a map in relationship to your current location. Once located, you can then immediately apply for the position. This app works on Edge, 3G or WiFi and includes a video tutorial and email support.
