CAREER and TRAINING CHOICES

What Kind of Occupation Should I Pursue?
A new Job retraining gives you alternative options to enter the workforce retained.  The new job position might be a different than what you did before, or require specific technical and computer skills that are entirely new to you. When choosing a career, it’s important to find out everything you can about a new job. It is highly important to consider the following paths: 

1. Is this profession physically appropriate?  Let’s say, if you have a back injury, a job requiring heavy lifting may conflict with your physical limitations.
2. Do I have the necessary skills for the job?  Let’s say, many occupations require a certain level of proficiency in math and reading. 
3. What do employers look in employees?  In most cases, it is wise to choose an occupation that has openings available in your area.  We at the Job Training and Placement Voucher Center certified vocational job placement counselors who can help you rapidly retrain and progress, please request our handbook for job training and placement and you will discover the many opportunities available in your home area.

How can I enroll in Job Training and Placement Program?
Once you have selected your training and job placement program:

1. Can the school accept your voucher?
   To accept the voucher, the school must be either (a) accredited, (b) state approved by the Bureau for Private Postsecondary and Vocational Education (BPPVE), (c) or approved by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).  If in doubt, call the school and ask whether they will accept your voucher or call 1-877-956-9007
2. Is the school convenient for you?
   If it is a live school, such as a community college, ensure that it is conveniently located, accessible (considering your injury), and that it offers a schedule that will fit your needs.  For many injured workers, a distance-education school can provide a better alternative and offer the same quality of training.
3. Does the school provide career guidance and job assistance?
   These are often not readily available to voucher holders and should be sought when selecting a school (especially if you are not using a return-to-work counselor).

Can I Use the Voucher in Another State?
Yes. You can use the voucher to pay an out of state private provider of education-related retraining or skill enhancement. Just make sure they are approved by the governing state agency similarly to the way California providers are approved.

Do I Need My Voucher Upfront to Begin My Training?
Depending on the case, otherwise, if you prefer, you may pay for the training up-front and submit your receipts and enrollment information to your insurer for reimbursement.  Contact your insurer for more information about timing and coverage limitations.

Do I Need a Rehabilitation Counselor?
If you are unsure about the kinds of job and vocational training you are likely to succeed in, it is recommended that you use the services of a Qualified Rehabilitation Counselor.
A Rehabilitation Counselor can provide many valuable services to help you with your retraining, including:

1. Professional advice about the careers you are interested in.
2. Assessment testing to help you select an training program and that will be appropriate for you for your skills and physical ability.
3. Aid with finding and securing a job upon the completion of your vocational skills retraining.
4. Aid obtaining through the Workers’ Compensation voucher system.

The counselor will collect up to 10% of your voucher amount as a fee for his/her services, leaving 90% of the voucher funds still available for educational expenses.  Although the services of a Vocational Return to Work Counselor (VRTWC) are often recommended, they are not mandatory.  To locate more information, call the California Division of Workers’ Compensation at (800) 736-7401 or see the list of counselors at the DWC website: www.dir.ca.gov/dwc/SJDB/VRTWC_list.pdf