NCWorks Career Center, Columbus County

For Job Seekers

Free services are available to help individuals find employment, develop career goals, and prepare for the workforce. Services include:

• Career Planning and Development – Identify the training or education needed to prepare for employment in the local labor market.
• High School Completion and GED Connection – Find classes to help you complete your high school diploma or GED.
• Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) – Learn about training assistance available for adults, dislocated workers, and out-of-school youth.
• Occupational Skills Training – Receive referrals to training programs for in-demand careers in the local area.
• Support Services – Get help with transportation, childcare, or other challenges that may affect your job success.

Additional no-cost services for job seekers include:

• Career assessment and guidance
• Access to training and education programs
• Job fairs and workshops
• Information on the job market
• Assistance with job searches
• Résumé and cover letter preparation
• Interview practice sessions
• Free computer and Internet access
• Help registering with and using NCWorks Online

NCWorks Programs also include special services for the following groups:

• Veterans
• Young adults
• Migrant and seasonal farm workers
• Justice-involved and former offenders

For Employers

Employers can access recruiting tools, training resources, and business support services to meet their workforce needs. Services include:

• Access to Training Programs – Training can be provided for prospective or current employees to enhance skills and meet workforce needs.
• On-the-Job Training (OJT) Program – Receive incentives for training eligible new employees through reimbursable on-the-job opportunities.
• Dislocated Worker Services – Assist displaced employees with retraining and job placement support.
• Recruitment and Retention – Get assistance with hiring efforts and strategies to retain skilled employees.
• Rapid Response and Business Support – Contact the center for confidential consultations during layoffs or plant closings.
• Labor Market Research – Access up-to-date information about industries, training programs, and employment trends.
• Skills Testing and Screening – Applicants or employees can complete skills assessments, and staff can assist with screening and interviews.
• Tax Credit and Hiring Incentives – Learn about programs that offer hiring and training incentives for eligible candidates.
• Workplace Literacy and Employee Development – Provide on-site literacy or professional development programs for your employees.
• Youth Services and Outreach – Partner with NCWorks to offer internships and apprenticeships for young adults in the region.

To learn more or discuss customized workforce solutions, contact the Columbus County NCWorks Career Center at (910) 788-6261.

NCWorks Programs

Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA)

The Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) is the nation’s principal workforce development legislation. It provides funding to meet the employment and training needs of dislocated workers and low-income adults and youth.

Funding for WIOA comes from the U.S. Department of Labor and is administered by the N.C. Division of Workforce Development and the Cape Fear Council of Governments for Brunswick, Columbus, New Hanover, and Pender Counties.

WIOA supports participants by increasing education, training, employment, and earnings while promoting job retention. The goal is to improve workforce quality, reduce welfare dependency, and enhance productivity and competitiveness.

Primary consideration for enrollment is based on an individual’s work history, education, and skill levels, as well as their ability to complete and benefit from short-term (up to two years) vocational training in occupations that align with the local labor market.

If you qualify and are accepted for enrollment in WIOA, trained career advisors will:

• Assist you with developing an individual employment plan
• Provide financial assistance to help pay for training
• Connect you to support services from NCWorks partners and community agencies

How to Apply for WIOA

You must apply for WIOA in the county where you live. For Columbus County, apply at the Columbus County NCWorks Career Center, located in A-Building at Southeastern Community College.

On-the-Job Training (OJT) Program

The On-the-Job Training (OJT) Program, funded through WIOA, provides incentives for businesses to help offset the cost of training eligible new employees. It also offers training opportunities in the local business community for adults and dislocated workers.

Employer services through the OJT Program include:

• Screening applicants for aptitude and basic skills
• Referral of eligible candidates
• Possible reimbursement of up to 75% of training wages for a set period
• Follow-up services to ensure completion of training and retention

For more information, contact the Columbus County NCWorks Career Center at (910) 788-6261.

Hours of Operation

The Columbus County NCWorks Career Center follows the operating hours of Southeastern Community College. For the most current schedule, please visit the Hours of Operation page.

For additional information, contact the center at (910) 788-6261.