The City of Newport News has launched the CARES Workforce Assistance Program (C-WAP), offering residents workforce development training in industries that are in critical need of employees and that pay minimum wages of $13.50/hr. The city’s goal is to help more than 215 residents obtain industry credentials and employment by the end of the year.
“We heard from many who are struggling with unemployment and are worried about how to provide for their families,” Mayor McKinley L. Price says. “This program underscores our city’s belief in our residents and their limitless potential. By investing in those who call Newport News home, we are transforming their circumstances and helping them begin challenging new careers in high-demand industries.”
The C-WAP program is facilitated by the Greater Peninsula Workforce Development Consortium and offers residents training in courses led by certified instructors from the following organizations:
- Centura College (truck driving – CDL) – 757-874-2121
- Shipper’s Choice (truck driving – CDL) – 757-896-1155
- Healthcare Training Solutions (healthcare) – 757-405-8498
- Talent Tech South(information technology) – 888-909-1542
- Virginia Ship Repair/Hpt. Rds Workforce Council (maritime)–757-233-7034
- Virginia Technical Academy(construction and trades) – 757-383-9585
The C-WAP Program is open to Newport News residents over the age of 18 who are not tied to compulsory school attendance. Residents must be unemployed or underemployed due to COVID-19 and/or experiencing family hardships resulting from the pandemic.
Courses begin immediately, with programs blending in-person training at provider sites and virtual sessions. There is no cost for residents to be involved, and participants will graduate with national credentials by December 30. Many of the programs have rolling application deadlines. Residents can contact the organizations directly for specific program information.
To provide additional job training and workforce development supports, the city opened the Denbigh Workforce Center at 14851 Warwick Boulevard on Oct. 5. Residents can visit the center for help researching and applying for jobs, resume writing support, information on training and workforce development programs, and to use the computer lab. The Center will be open Monday through Friday from 9 am-5 pm. For more information, email cwapcoordinator@gmail.com or call 757-354-7764.
