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    On-the-Job Training or Apprenticeship Training

    Veterans, Dependents, Members of the National Guard, and Reservists

    You may be eligible to receive a monthly G.I. Bill® benefit check from the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs.

    What is on-the-job training?

    On-the-job training is training you receive while actually performing a job and earning wages as well as receiving your G.I. Bill® benefits. On-the-job training programs normally range from six months to two years in length. Some examples of currently approved on-the-job training programs are Welder, Painter, Cook, Pressman, and Auto Mechanic.

    What is apprenticeship training?

    Apprenticeship training is on-the-job training coupled with theoretical related instruction. You receive your G.I. Bill® benefits while working full time and earning wages. Apprenticeship programs are normally two to five years in length. Registration with the Pennsylvania Apprenticeship and Training Council is not mandatory for veterans benefits; however, it is recommended in order for the veteran to receive journeyman’s papers upon successful completion of training. Some examples of currently approved apprenticeship programs are Carpenter, Electrician, Brick Layer, Asbestos Worker, Plumber, Iron Worker, Corrections Officer, Machinist, and Maintenance Mechanic. The jobs listed above are only a sample of the many jobs that may be approved for veterans benefits.

    1. 1

      Step 1

      If you do not have a job, or if you are not working in the occupation you want, contact your local PA CareerLink® . The PA CareerLink® Representative should be able to find an employer who can offer the kind of training you need to reach your occupational goal. 

    2. 2

      Step 2

      Next, either you or your employer should contact the Pennsylvania Department of Education (State Approving Agency) so that the necessary steps can be taken to ap­prove the training program. Keep in mind that not all occupations can be approved. Please contact the Penn­sylvania Department of Education (State Approving Agency) for more information. 

    3. 3

      Step 3

      Contact the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs to determine your eligibility and to obtain the necessary application forms. 

    Licensure and certificate test

    G.I. Bill® benefits may be used for reimburse­ment of fees for licensure or certification exams that are either required or generally accepted by the industry to enter into, ad­vance or maintain employment. Contact the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs or the Pennsylvania Department of Education (State Approving Agency) for details and additional information.

    Benefits to employers

    • Veterans who have worked in technically oriented military occupations are better prepared for civilian technical training.
    • Veterans have demonstrated the aptitude to be trained in a structured environment.
    • Veterans have developed a work ethic that enables them to report for work on time and in the proper frame of mind.
    • Veterans tend to be more mature, self-confident, and drug-free employees.
    • Veterans who receive G.I. Bill® assistance will work toward a training objective and make satisfactory progress to receive continued benefits.
    • Veterans possess traits such as adapting to physical demands, following safety guidelines, working under pressure, and setting priorities.

     Who to contact for assistance:

    Contact the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs concerning your eligibility for benefits or benefit amounts.

    Veterans Affairs Regional Office
    P.O. Box 21
    Buffalo, NY 14240-0021
    1-888-442-4551 | www.benefits.va.gov/gibill/

    Contact your local veterans representa­tive at PA CareerLink® to find a job.

    Contact the Pennsylvania Department of Education (State Approving Agency) be­low with questions concerning program approval.

    Pennsylvania Department of Education
    Division of Veterans and Military Education 
    Forum Building
    607 South Drive
    Harrisburg, PA  17120
    717-787-2414 | RA-VetED@pa.gov

    Regional Offices

    301 Fifth Avenue
    Suite 204
    Pittsburgh, PA 15222
    412-565-5364

    GI Bill® is a registered trademark of the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs(VA). More information about education benefits offered by VA is available at the official government website at www.benefits.va.gov/gibill.