Worker Retraining Funding Program

The Worker Retraining Funding program is administered by the Washington State Board for Community and Technical Colleges as part of Washington State’s workforce development strategy. The program is funded through the State General Fund and is designed to support community and technical colleges in providing retraining opportunities for unemployed and dislocated workers. Established through legislative action, the program aligns with state economic priorities by targeting industries with high demand and supporting individuals in regaining employment through education and skill development. The program emphasizes alignment with regional labor market needs and collaboration with workforce development partners. The primary purpose of the funding is to enable Washington’s community and technical colleges to deliver training programs and related support services to eligible students. These services include financial aid, career advising, educational planning, job placement assistance, and referrals to training and employment resources. Colleges are expected to design programs that prepare students for high-wage, high-demand occupations, particularly in key sectors such as healthcare, manufacturing, construction, and other strategic industries identified through regional economic analysis. Funding is allocated annually to eligible colleges based on a formula that incorporates Full Time Equivalent Student enrollment metrics and regional unemployment data. Funds may be used for two primary purposes: providing direct financial aid to students and supporting program infrastructure, including instructional delivery and administrative staffing. Allowable expenses include tuition assistance, books, supplies, transportation, childcare, and other education-related costs, as well as program administration and faculty support. Colleges must adhere to state financial and administrative regulations, including the State Administrative and Accounting Manual, and maintain detailed financial records subject to audit. Eligibility for this funding opportunity is limited to Washington State community and technical colleges as defined by state statute. Each college must submit an annual application outlining its Worker Retraining Plan, which includes program mix, budget, budget narrative, advisory committee participation, and assurances of compliance. Applications are submitted through the Online Grant Management System and must reflect collaboration with advisory committees that include representatives from business, labor, and community organizations. Colleges are required to maintain an active advisory committee and hold regular meetings to guide program development and ensure alignment with workforce needs. The application process includes several required components, such as a detailed program mix describing targeted training areas, a comprehensive budget and narrative, an advisory committee roster, and an assurances document signed by institutional leadership. Applications are reviewed by SBCTC staff, and colleges may be required to revise submissions based on feedback. The application deadline for the current cycle is April 16, 2026, with applications becoming available on March 5, 2026. Funding for approved applications begins July 1, 2026 and continues through June 30, 2027. Program performance is monitored through metrics such as enrollment targets, program completion rates, job placement, job retention, and wage recovery. Colleges are expected to meet assigned enrollment targets, and failure to do so over consecutive years may result in funding adjustments. The program is recurring on an annual basis, requiring colleges to reapply each year and update their plans based on changing economic conditions and performance outcomes. Contact for the program includes Shanna McBride, Program Administrator, who provides guidance and support throughout the application and implementation process. Additional details regarding program requirements, allowable costs, eligibility criteria, and application procedures are outlined in the official program guidelines document.

Align program mix with high demand industries and regional economic needs; engage advisory committee early in planning; ensure budget justification clearly ties to workforce outcomes