Commission Policy | CPS 06-2026 Consumer Choice in Selecting Training Providers

• Date: August 12, 2026
• Subject: Consumer Choice in Selecting Training Providers
• From: Tom B. Rabon, Jr., Chair, NCWorks Commission

Purpose:

To ensure that Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) consumers are positioned to make informed choices relative to training opportunities available through the WIOA Eligible Training Provider List (ETPL) which maintains the integrity of the WIOA system. To support a workforce system that is readily understood, accessible, and responsive to local and regional workers, job seekers, students, and businesses. To ensure customers have access to quality training and education programs that prepare individuals for in-demand jobs in their local area.

This Commission Policy Statement (CPS) rescinds PS 21-2015. The procedures herein supersede all previous policy, procedures, and guidelines regarding consumer choice in selecting training providers.

Background:

Pursuant to WIOA Section 134(c)(3)(F)(i), training services must be provided in a manner that maximizes informed consumer choice in selecting an eligible provider.

Section 108(b)(6)(A) of the WIOA requires Local Plans to describe how they will ensure providers meet customer needs and section 122 details information regarding the identification of eligible providers of training services.

Definitions:

As defined by WIOA Section 3(23), the term in-demand industry sector or occupation means – (i) an industry sector that has a substantial current or potential impact (including through jobs that lead to economic or self-sufficiency and opportunities for advancement) on the State, regional, or local economy, as appropriate, and that contributes to the growth or stability of other supporting businesses, or the growth of other industry sectors; or

(ii) an occupation that currently has or is projected to have a number of positions (including positions that lead to economic self-sufficiency and opportunities for advancement) in an industry sector so as to have a significant impact on the State, regional, or local economy, as appropriate.

Action: 

Program Review 

Local Workforce Development Boards (WDBs) are required to conduct a review of their current list of eligible providers on a biennial (every two years) basis in their respective areas to assure a significant number of competent providers that are in alignment with the top five in-demand occupations in their local area, as defined and provided by the Division. WDBs will be required to complete a new section of the Local Area plan. In this section, WDBs will be required to indicate the following for each in-demand occupation:

1. The local ETPL programs that train for the in-demand occupation
2. Any state level ETPL programs that train for the in-demand occupation within the WDB’s service area and provide an explanation of why such programs are not included at the local level.
3. Registered Apprenticeships Programs that train for the in-demand occupation.  As a reminder, as indicated in the Eligible Training Provider Guidelines, Penalties, Appeal Process and Performance Reporting CPS Attachment, “all Registered Apprenticeships (RAs) that have been approved and are on the statewide ETPL must also be certified by all WDBs without additional local requirements.” 
4. Describe action the local board is taking or plans to take to address gaps in training programs, including registered apprenticeships with local partners. 

Additionally, WDBs will need to identify the approved Workforce Pell Programs offered in their service area and provide an explanation for any approved Workforce Pell Programs that are not included on their local ETPL.1  Local boards are strongly encouraged to add all Workforce Pell programs at institutions located in their area to their local ETPLs.

The Division of Workforce Solutions (DWS) is required to provide a biennial (every two years) report on ETPL enrollments, performance and recommendations to the NCWorks Commission on state level performance accountability measures for ETPs with the first report due in November 2027. 

Local Accountability

Local WDBs must also take into account performance accountability measures as identified in WIOA Section 122(b)(1)(A-J). At their discretion, Local WDBs may impose more strict performance outcome measures on providers. WDBs should also ensure that service delivery staff understand the WIOA principles regarding customer choice and assist customers in making informed career decisions. Workforce Board staff desiring technical assistance are encouraged to contact DWS.

Effective Date:

Immediately

Expiration:

Indefinite

Contact:

DWS Planner

Director of Performance 

• 1

  According to CPS 04-2026, all Workforce Pell programs must first be approved on the state ETPL.