Training & Upskilling
Train new hires on the job, upskills current staff, and launch apprenticeships to strengthen your workforce.
Support for employee literacy and HSE credentialing.
Description
Program that focuses on improving math, writing, and science skills and prepares individuals for the high school equivalency (HSE) exam.
Eligibility
Incarcerated in a TDoC facility.
Meets behavioral and security clearance standards.
Has time remaining on sentence to complete the programs.
Custom employee training programs through TCATs/colleges.
Description
Custom employee training programs through TCATs and community colleges focused on developing high-tech, industrial, office, and healthcare skills.
Targets major corporations, small businesses, industry, healthcare facilities, professional organizations, and government agencies.
Eligibility
Employer of any size and in any sector.
Must be willing to partner with a local TCAT or community college to design and deliver training.
Direct state grants for training new full-time employees.
Description
Direct grant to companies to support training of net new full-time employees.
Eligibility
Based on number of new hires, investment, and skills needed.
Pre-hire training not eligible.
Funding to train current employees and boost productivity.
Description
Competitive grant program that funds upskilling and process improvement training for current full-time employees.
Helps businesses retain staff, avert layoffs by upgrading existing workforce skills.
Eligibility
Businesses must be for-profit or nonprofit; in operation for at least 1 year.
Employees trained must be full-time and meet wage and employment retention requirements.
Based on size, employer must contribute to training costs (cash or in-kind).
Provide incarcerated individuals with college-level training.
Description
Offers college-level courses in partnership with local colleges and universities.
Helps those incarcerated earn degrees or certifications.
Eligibility
Incarcerated in a TDOC facility.
Meets behavioral and security clearance standards.
Has time remaining on sentence to complete the programs.
Access to subsidized training for SNAP-eligible candidates.
Description
Connects Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) recipients with employment, training opportunities through partnerships with employers and training providers, helping them to gain skills and find jobs.
Businesses can get access to a motivated pool of jobseekers, plus potential partnerships for training and employment services.
Eligibility
Must be willing to collaborate with TDHS or its E&T providers to host job training, offer employment opportunities, or deliver supportive service (e.g. coaching, skills training).
Openness to hiring individuals facing barriers to employment.
Must provide meaningful work or training that builds employability skills.
Safety compliance training for workforce trainers.
Description
Workplace safety & regulatory training for employer-designated trainers.
Helps ensure compliance with TN Occupational Safety & Health requirements.
Eligibility
Available to Tennessee-based employers in industries regulated by TOSHA.
Trainer candidates commit to delivering training within their organization.
Recruit and train paraprofessionals into teaching careers.
Description
Federally registered, state-sponsored program to create a no-cost pathway into the teaching profession.
Some programs prioritize paraprofessionals, teaching assistants, or career changers already working in schools.
Eligibility
Be employed or sponsored by a participating school district that has partnered with an approved Educatory Preparation Program (EPP).
Meet EPP requirements (e.g. high school diploma, minimum GPA, background check, etc.).
Commit to completing coursework, on-the-job training.
Training and leadership development for correctional staff.
Description
Offers leadership/professional development programs for correctional staff.
Programs include:
- iLEAD - Leadership workshop for line staff
- Commanding Success Institute (CSI) - Training for mid-level officers
- Executive Development Academy - Advanced leadership trainin.
Eligibility
iLEAD: at least six months of service and requires a recommendation from a supervisor.
CSI: must be a probation/parole officer 3 or above; for corporal through captain.
Executive Development Academy: must be a warden, district director, or correctional administrator.
Grant-funded workforce development for low-income residents.
Description
In partnership with Community Action Agencies across Tennessee, TDHS provides workforce development grants aimed at enhancing employment opportunities for low-income individuals.
Employers can work with a CAA to receive TDHS-funded support for training programs, or other types of grant-funded partnerships to develop a skilled workforce utilizing Tennessee residents on limited incomes.
Eligibility
Must work in partnership with a designated Community Action Agency.
Willingness to co-design or host workforce training or subsidized employment opportunities.
Demonstrated capacity to provide a positive, supportive work environment for participants.
Can't find what you're looking for?
Connect with a TNWorks representative to learn more.