The On-the-Job Training/Supportive Services (OJT/SS) is a program of the Federal Highway Administration. It was created to complement the
On-the-Job Training (OJT) program
administered by State Transportation Agencies (STAs). The OJT/SS program is a workforce and support program designed to assist STAs such as the N.C. Department of Transportation working with private contractors in the development and enhancement of their on-the-job training and apprenticeship programs using federal-aid highway funds.
The primary objectives of OJT/SS are as follows:
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Increase the overall effectiveness of the NCDOT's approved OJT/SS training programs.
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Utilize alternative ways to increase training and employment opportunities for women, minorities and disadvantaged individuals in the industry who have been historically underrepresented in highway construction-skilled professions.
Individuals who are interested in construction careers and/or enrolled in the OJT (On-the-Job Training) program are eligible for assistance. The
NCDOT Office of Civil Rights, OJT/SS Unit is responsible for oversight of the program and is available to answer individual questions and/or assist contractors interested in OJT Supportive Services for their trainees, as well as minorities, women, veterans, and disadvantaged individuals interested in learning and obtaining skilled trades in the Highway Construction Industry.
Note: In North Carolina, 'disadvantaged' includes persons with disabilities, justice-involved individuals, and any resident of a Tier 1 county.
Assistance and Services Available:
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Recruitment
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Pre-training/employment assessment
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Employment counseling
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Skills training
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Job referral
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Mentorship
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OSHA & CPR training
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Traffic-control flagger training
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Temporary/emergency assistance with transportation and daycare
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Basic Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) needed for training and employment
Participant Benefits:
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Participants who successfully complete the Academy will be given a certificate indicating that they are ready to enter an OJT apprenticeship or the construction workforce.
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Participants in the program will also receive assistance with job placement from hiring contractors or NCDOT's Division of Highways.
Employer Benefits:
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The contractor or NCDOT Division of Highways gains a pre-trained entry-level employee.
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Advanced training in certain specialties will be paid for by OJT/SS funds.
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Contractors can help develop and retain a skilled and diverse workforce.
*Advanced Training:
Participants who have attended an HCTA or OJT trainees will have the opportunity to receive additional skills training in one of seven critical need areas. Areas of training focus include but are not limited to: CDL/truck driving; heavy equipment operation demolition/hauling; guardrail; asphalt/paving; landscaping/erosion; trenches/piping; traffic maintenance; bridgework; and disaster recovery.
