FAQs

Browse our list of frequently asked questions or reach out today if we don’t have the answer you’re looking for.

We haven't spoken for a while, am I still in the Pathways Home program?

Most likely. We have one year of follow up minimum from our initial meeting so it is likely that you are still in the program. Please email mfilipek@nwwib.com if you aren't sure.

I have a family member incarcerated. How can they enroll in Pathways Home?

If your family member is in prison, have them contact their social worker to email mfilipek@nwwib.com.  If your family member is in jail, please email their name, where they are incarcerated, and their release date to mfilipek@nwwib.com.

I've been reincarcerated, am I still in the Pathways Home program?

Yes. Reincarceration does not disqualify you from the program. Please contact us you can so we can make plans around your new situation.

What can I get help with?

There is a lot we can help with including looking for work, training (tuition, books, tools), gas cards, a phone and release clothing as well many other services. Please ask if you don't know if we can pay for something, the worst thing you can hear is no.

How do I know if I qualify for Pathways Home?

The most important requirements are that the client releases to NW Wisconsin, has 20-270 days left in sentence and that they will be serving the sentence in a jail or prison. If you aren't sure, please email mfilipek@nwwib.com.

Can the WIOA Youth Program help me with apprenticeship training?

Yes! WIOA Youth Program can assist you with connecting with apprenticeship opportunities and provide supportive services to assist in your success.

How do I apply for the WIOA Youth Program?

You can apply for the WIOA Youth Program by connecting with a CEP Career Planner. More information can be found here: https://nwcep.org/

How can the WIOA Youth Program benefit me?

The WIOA Youth Program can assist you with career awareness/exploration, give you experience working on a job, increase your skills, provide you with leadership development opportunities, mentoring, financial literacy education, and more.

Do I have to be in high school to be eligible for the WIOA Youth Program?

No, you do not have to be in high school to be eligible for the WIOA Youth Program. You can either be attending high school, post-secondary school, or not attending school.

How old do I have to be to receive services from the WIOA Youth Program?

Many programs we offer have age requirements. Youth who are in high school (14-18) can receive services through the Workforce Innovation & Opportunity Act (WIOA). Youth 18 and older may be eliigible for WIOA and other programs.

I do not speak English. Does the NWWIB have translators on site who can assist me?

The NWWIB has handheld language translators that can be utilized if an individual comes to our offices seeking services.

Do I need work experience to use NWWIB services?

No, you do not need to have work experience. The NWWIB helps individuals at all career stages, including those entering the workforce for the first time

Is the NWWIB a government agency?

No. While the NWWIB works closely with government agencies, the NWWIB itself is a non-profit organization.

Do I need to be actively looking and/or seeking employment to receive supportive services?

Yes. In order to qualify for any of the NWWIB programs, individuals must be seeking out employment or training for employment.

What is a workforce board?

A workforce board is a network of state, federal, and local offices that support the development of the country's workforce and economic expansion. The NWWIB is 1 of 11 workforce boards in the State of Wisconsin.

Is the NWWIB a Job Center of Wisconsin location?

No, the NWWIB is not a Job Center of Wisconsin location. The Job Center of Wisconsin is located at any Northwest CEP offices.

Do I need to make an appointmnet to visit the NWWIB?

No. Although, we do highly encourage you give us a call beforehand as a heads-up if you are planning on walking in to our offices to learn more about our programs. We are also able to meet virtually or, over the phone if meeting in-person is not possible.

Can I follow the NWWIB on social media?

Yes. You can find the NWWIB on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, Youtube and Tik Tok.

What other services can the COW grant help me with other than tuition?

The COW grant is able to help provide some supportive services to reimburse you for items such as testing fees, mileage reimbursement to get to/from college classes or exam site location, scrubs, interview clothing, etc.

Will the COW grant be renewed to continue beyond the current grant end date?

No, the COW grant will not continue beyond the current grant end date of 12/31/2024.  We apply for new grants all of the time, so please check back in case we have a different grant you may be eligible for.

Is the COW grant an income based eligibility program?

No, it is not income based.  While we do need accurate income information to determine if you are eligible, it is not income based and many people qualify that may not qualify for other income based programs.

What healthcare training programs are currently eligible for the COW grant?

Currently the Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA), Phlebotomy and Medical Assistant (CMA) are eligible for the COW grant as long as you are going to graduate on or before 12/31/2024

How do I qualify for the COW grant?

Please email Layne Brackeen, our COW Case Manager at lbrackeen@nwwib.com to determine if you may be eligible for the grant.  She is happy to help you!  She will also connect you with other resources you may be eligible for as well.

Can you develop a customized training program that addresses our unique business needs?

NWWIB will provide tailored training solutions that align with your specific goals and challenges.

How do you ensure that the candidates you refer to us are a good fit for our culture?

We work closely with you to understand your company culture and job requirements, ensuring we refer candidates who align well with your expectations.

What resources are available for implementing apprenticeship program in our organization?

NWWIB can provide assistance in establishing an effective Youth and/or Registered Apprenticeship program to attract and develop new talent.

What types of training programs and resources are available to upskill our employees?

NWWIB provides information on available incumbent worker and on-the-job training opportunities, certifications and resources that improve the skills and retention of your workforce.

How do I meet with a NWWIB case manager?

Individuals can meet virtually, through a phone call, email, text or in person.

Do I have to pay the NWWIB back after receiving supportive services?

No. It is a grant not a loan.

What should I bring for a NWWIB program application ?

Individuals should bring at least two forms of ID. This can include a birth certificate, social security number and/or a driver's license.

Who can receive Supportive Services?

We offer supportive services to those who are looking to succeed in training or seeking employment.

What Supportive Services can the NWWIB offer ?

We offer supportive services that help people succeed in training or seeking employment/ being employed.

How do I contact the NWWIB?

Please call 715-685-1425 between the hours of 8:00 AM and 4:30 PM, Monday through Friday.  You can also call any other time and leave a voice message.