MONTGOMERY, Ala. (WDNews) — Gov. Kay Ivey and Alabama Department of Workforce Secretary Greg Reed on Tuesday announced the launch of Alabama’s Workforce Pell approval process, an initiative designed to make short-term, career-focused training more accessible for qualifying Alabamians.
Workforce Pell expands federal Pell Grant eligibility to approved short-term training programs that prepare students for high-skill, high-wage and in-demand careers. The initiative allows eligible students to earn workforce credentials without enrolling in a traditional degree program.
“Alabama’s workforce is one of our greatest strengths, and we must continue giving our citizens the tools they need to compete and succeed,” said Gov. Ivey. “Workforce Pell will provide more Alabamians with an affordable option to gain industry-relevant training, earn valuable expertise and begin rewarding careers in the communities they call home.”
The Alabama Department of Workforce will oversee the state application and review process for institutions seeking approval of eligible training programs.
“Workforce Pell creates another pathway for Alabamians to gain the skills and credentials needed to compete for in-demand jobs,” said Secretary Reed. “By connecting financial assistance with career-focused programs that demonstrate strong completion and employment outcomes, we can help more individuals move into meaningful work while supporting the workforce needs of Alabama employers.”
Alabama Workforce Board Chair Phil Webb said the initiative reflects collaboration among educators, employers and state leaders.
“By working together, our educators, employers, and state leaders are expanding opportunities for Alabamians to participate in high-quality workforce training programs,” said Webb. “I applaud this collaborative approach to ensuring Alabama students gain the skills they need to meet the needs of employers and succeed in the workforce.”
To qualify, programs generally must provide between eight and less than 15 weeks of instruction, include between 150 and 599 clock hours or the academic credit equivalent, prepare students for occupations on Alabama’s in-demand jobs list, lead to a recognized postsecondary credential, meet employer hiring requirements, demonstrate at least a 70% completion and job placement rate, have operated in their current form for at least 12 months and be offered by an eligible institution participating in federal student aid programs.
Programs must receive both state and federal approval before students can receive Workforce Pell funding. Once approved, eligible students will apply by completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Awards will be prorated based on the federal Pell Grant award and will not require repayment.
Students will enroll through an approved institution, which will determine eligibility and administer the funding. Workforce Pell cannot be used at the same time as a traditional Pell Grant, and awards will count toward the federal lifetime Pell Grant limit.
A directory of approved Alabama Workforce Pell programs will be published by the Alabama Department of Workforce as approvals are issued. Prospective students may also contact an Alabama Community College System institution or an AlabamaWorks! partner to learn more about available training opportunities.
For more information about Workforce Pell or the application process, visit workforce.alabama.gov/educators/workforce-pell-grants or email [email protected].
