SOUTH JERSEY (KYW Newsradio) — New Jersey has launched a pilot program designed to make it more accessible for people to train for some in-demand jobs.
It’s called the “Pay it Forward” program. Here’s how it works. Students who enroll in specific programs will get interest-free, fee-free loans to complete their training, and once they begin to pay back those loans, the money will go toward funding the next class of students.
Gov. Phil Murphy said the state has identified three areas of need for now: nursing, cybersecurity, and skilled trades like welding and HVAC.
“These loans aren’t just for the cost of training but will also cover the cost of books, class materials and other supplies,” Murphy said. “In addition, these students will receive critical wraparound services such as career counseling and mental health supports.”
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He said loans can also go toward living expenses for people who are looking to make a career change.
One of the pilot programs will be at Camden County College for welding and HVAC training. Margo Venable, executive director of workforce training programs at the college, said this will really help students from low and middle income families.
“We really want to provide equity, access and opportunity for the residents of our county,” said Venable.
Murphy said there’s nothing like this program anywhere in the country. “We’re bringing a real, live, tangible example of what the future could look like,” he touted.
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Venable said people began calling about it almost immediately after the August 17 announcement. “We’ve already had some significant interest for partipation in the program,” she said, “so we are delighted.”
The nursing program will be at Hudson County Community College, while the cybersecurity program will be at New Jersey Institute of Technology.
“This opportunity is a game changer for a lot of individuals,” Venable said. People interested in the welding or HVAC training can call (856) 374-4955 or email tradetraining@camdencc.edu.