Are there night classes?
Typically, training simulates the work place and is scheduled from 8 am to 4 pm, Monday through Friday. Some training programs, however, may include college coursework. These courses may or may not be attended in the evenings.
Do you have part time hours?
IBT does not train people for part time jobs nor does IBT offer part time hours for training programs. We place participants in full time jobs with benefits and our training programs simulate the workplace.
How long is training?
The lengths of the training programs vary by employer and range in duration from six to 14 weeks. Training design and delivery is dictated by the particular job. IBT works with the employer to make sure that the program is as short as possible while still providing the specific skills needed for employment.
Can I bring my kids?
No. Training at IBT simulates a work environment. At most jobs you can't bring your kids to work so kids are not allowed in training.
Do you have childcare help?
Yes. Support services are available such as child care and transportation assistance for individuals selected by the participating employer. We will work with you to develop appropriate plans and options.
Why do I need to bring all those documents?
IBT programs are federally funded. The law requires that each participant be able to document eligibility for the program.
I'm not sure I can find my high school diploma or GED. Do I need them to apply?
Most businesses and organizations today require that their employees have a high school education. However, not all employers that IBT works with require high school. We must match people with the employer's profile. More often than not, that profile includes a high school education. You should retain proof of all educational achievements because skills and training are becoming increasingly important in the ever-changing workplace.
Does IBT have computer training?
IBT's programs are designed for specific employers. Some employers require their employees to use computers, others do not. If the company wants the training to include specific computer applications, then IBT trains participants in the computer programs necessary to carry out their duties in the workplace.
Why do I need training when I am already qualified for the position?
If you already have the skills necessary to work in the fields we train for, you should have no trouble finding a job on your own. For example, if you already have a Commercial Driver License, then the School Bus Driver Training Program would not benefit you.
Do I get training pay?
No. We provide you with free training and a guaranteed job based on successful completion of our competency-based training programs. This service is worth about $4,000 per person. We typically partner with our employers to provide two-phase training. In these cases, you do receive pay for Phase 2.
Who are the employers?
We work with major area employers that provide good wages, benefits and opportunities for advancement and further training. Some of our accounts include:
Alamo Rent-A-Car
American Express
BellSouth
Bendix Avionics
Bristol West
Broward Coalition for the Homeless
Broward County Housing Authority
City of Fort Lauderdale
City of Miramar
Clerk of the Circuit and County Courts
Consolidated Credit Counseling Services, Inc.
Continental Cablevision
The Continental Group
Cross Country Home Services, Inc.
Fort Lauderdale Housing Authority
Gateway Community Outreach
HIP Health Plan of Florida
The Jones Company
McKinley Financial Services
Metro One Telecommunications
Precision Response Corporation
The Retirement Council
The School Board of Broward County
Southern Sanitation
Webster Sports
Windjammer Condominium Association
And many others
We are continually assessing the labor market and adding to our list of qualifying employers with training needs that can be met through our programs.
Can I go to the company and apply directly?
Yes. You may apply directly to companies that IBT trains for but that doesn't mean you will get a job. Many companies require applicants to take a pre-employment exam. If an applicant fails the test they cannot reapply for six months to a year in some cases. If you take the test and fail, you cannot be trained by IBT for that position until that time period is over. IBT focuses on the skills and aptitudes required by the employer and any entry requirements that are a part of our training competencies.
If I'm not eligible for training but I want a job, can I enroll and pay for the course?
No. Our funding has specific guidelines for establishing eligibility. Not everyone is eligible for programs we deliver. IBT makes every attempt to find out if an applicant is likely to be eligible and suitable as well as match the participating employer's profile. There is no fee for our services and the employer must select you in advance of training. Some factors that may establish eligibility include:
Lay off
Company closure
Terminated and eligible for Unemployment Insurance
Broward County residents on Public Assistance (i.e. food stamps, housing, TANF, SSI, Medicaid, etc.)
Displaced homemaker
Other possible factors based on individual circumstances
I was "let go" from my job. Why doesn't that mean "laid off"?
Many people are "let go" and not laid off. Layoffs usually occur because the organization is having trouble making ends meet and needs to cut expenses. One way to cut expenses is to reduce payroll. Sometimes companies move their operations to areas that may benefit them financially. For instance, they may find a location with lower operational expenses (i.e. rent, etc.). As a result, those employees not willing to move along with the company are laid off. A person terminated ("let go") by an employer for poor work performance or unreliability has not been laid off.
When can I come in to apply for training with IBT?
We provide initial orientation sessions on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays at 8:30 am. Please call (954) 201-8055 for an appointment. Orientation includes learning about the Workforce Development system in Broward County, eligibility for services, and our specific programs and employers.