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Employee Training

WORK-BASED TRAINING SOLUTIONS

Work-based training is a win-win for businesses and employees. By combining hands-on learning with targeted skill development, employers can fill critical roles faster, improve retention, and build a stronger, more adaptable team. SkillSource partners with local businesses to design employee training solutions that meet your needs — with financial support to help offset the cost. See below for details.

A man in professional attire stands at the front of a classroom setting before a group of adult workers who are seated at tables.
Group 14 Technologies leveled up employee skills through Incumbent Worker Training.

Incumbent Worker Training (IWT)

New Skills for Existing Employees

Upgrade the skills of your current workforce, promote from within, and reduce turnover.

SkillSource may cover up to $4,000 per employee for qualifying training. Depending on size, employers match 10%–50% of the cost, often met through wages during training.

On-the-Job Training (OJT)

Hire and train new employees with confidence. SkillSource helps create a training plan tailored to your needs and reimburses up to 75% of the trainee’s wages during the training period — typically $3,000 to $5,000.

OJT participants may also receive support with tools, equipment, clothing, and transportation to help them succeed.

Victoria was hired as a Dental Assistant at Sagebrush Dental through On-the-Job Training.
A smiling man with dark hair sits behind a computer screen in a well lit office space.
Stemilt Growers saw value from day one with their accounting intern, Octavio.

Internships & Work Experience

Paid work experience opportunities help career seekers gain job readiness and occupational skills while giving businesses extra staff in exchange for mentorship and training. These experiences often result in excellent employee candidates for participating businesses.

  • Work Experience: SkillSource pays wages for young adults (typically ages 16–24) for about 200 hours, building readiness skills while supporting your business.

  • Internships: Career seekers gain occupational skills training for an existing position. SkillSource pays training wages, and employers agree to hire upon successful completion.

Apprenticeships

Registered Apprenticeships combine on-the-job learning with classroom instruction and lead to industry-recognized credentials. Apprentices can be new hires or existing employees.

SkillSource helps businesses navigate the registration process with the Washington State Department of Labor & Industries and connect to resources.
Mario is now employed full time as a production technician for Genie thanks to a registered apprenticeship.
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CONTACT US

Reach out to be connected with a member of our Business Solutions team. We’ll walk you through eligibility and help find the right employee training path for your business needs.