Business Engagement Training for VR Staff: State Examples

Authored by
DeBrittany Mitchell

Vermont DVR: ACRE-Certified Training Series

Vermont DVR developed a training series in partnership with their Community College system, Transcen and content experts for sub-modules.  All participants who complete the “foundational” course and at least one disability-related sub-module also receive ACRE certification (http://www.acreducators.org/), and with one year of field work would be well-prepared to sit for the APSE exam.
 
Their training curriculum can be offered across state lines, and the Community College of Vermont (CCV) is exploring options to offer the training to other states very soon.  Just recently, CCV  also began offering college credit for those who successfully complete the series. Rather than re-invent the wheel, states may want to consider using this existing curriculum and delivery model. View the course materials below: 

Training Materials:

  1. The course syllabus
  2. Course overview
  3. A pre-and post-course self-evaluation checklist
  4. Role of the instructor
  5. Role of Mentor to support trainees

 

Illinois DVR: Agency-Developed Staff Training

Illinois DVR developed a training for their Business Engagement and Services Team (BEST). Their training activities included a survey, introductory webinars for supervisors and participants, a statewide kick-off training, and regional training in four locations. Illinois DVR's training initatives are based on their commitment to having a well-educated and supported staff through ongoing, progressive training and education. 

Training Materials:

  1. Business Terminology
  2. Making Business Connections: Regional training curriculum
  3. Business Profile 
  4. Responding to Employer Objections

 

Texas Workforce Commission: Dual-Customer Staff Training

The Texas Workforce Commission developed a training on dual-customer approaches to the staff and partners enhance employee workplace skills and productivity. The comprehensive training focuses on VR's interaction with consumers and businesses and has the following performace objectives:

  1. Explain the Dual Customer Approach and why it is important.
  2. Describe the role of the National Employment Team (NET) and its significance on VR outcomes.
  3. Coordinate with the Business Relations Team (BRT) to serve our customers.
  4. Apply strategies that develop business partners and engage employers.
  5. Identify local labor market opportunities.
  6. Designate VR services that support the needs of business partners.

View the Texas Workforce Commission's full training guide on Dual-Customer Approaches. 

 

Pub Type
Reports
project
Job-Driven VRTAC